The post Fourth Annual Aerospace Resource Guide appeared first on Northwest Aerospace News.

People in the aerospace industry are tightly knit and like to know what their peers are doing. In this magazine, for example, we write feature stories about the aerospace manufacturers in the Northwest. We talk about trends at the OEMs, in trade groups, and within the industry. We focus on good people, doing good work, supporting their families. Those I interview are business owners who take pride in what they do — they inspire me. 

I enjoy interviewing people and hearing each story. So many folks that I interview are proud of their work and their ability to build businesses. Additionally, I often interview their customers and employees. There are many people in the Northwest who greatly love the small manufacturers who employ them, or enjoy being customers of these companies. 

Of course, I also love writing the stories, and having my work published! 

Having your work published is like opening a gift with each magazine issue. However, my work is more diverse than just writing about manufacturers. Through Northwest Aerospace News Magazine, we also produce a weblog called “Northwest Aerospace News Live!” which I host and help produce. Additionally, I write for other aerospace-related magazines such as RotorPro and AirMed&Rescue; I also operate my content marketing and PR business called Ferrero Agency. 

Owning a small business and working as a writer, marketer, weblog host and PR professional means juggling many balls in the air each month. But after raising a family while running businesses and being involved in many boards and community groups, I’ve got it handled. 

While I write at least a couple of articles per issue, engaging with many of you and your customers through interviews, I also promote all writers and advertisers in the magazine. 

Our publisher Dean Cameron, and Top Drawer Media, are involved with the community through trade groups like PNAA, PNDC, and NIMA. He also participates in regional chambers of commerce and other partner businesses like TechHelp of Idaho and Impact Washington. 

We work deeply in this industry because of Dean’s aerospace career-long involvement and connections. You may see Dean at many meetings, but you’ll hear personally from me with invitations to be interviewed for the magazine or the webcast. We hope you’ll take the opportunity to trust us to profile your business with honesty and integrity. We promise we won’t bite! Generally, the interview process is very pleasant, allowing your business to be featured for free in our high-quality publications. 

Beyond writing feature stories, I spend a good deal of time each month promoting Dean’s assets through Top Drawer Media on social media and through newsletters. We maintain routine content posts and promotion of advertisers through LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X. We work hard to spotlight all our partners through trade groups, our writers, and advertisers. Through consistent publishing efforts, we see a positive ROI on the success of publishing and promotion. 

Let me tell you about some career and industry highlights that have made me proud. I am a distinguished toastmaster with Toastmasters International (that means I can write and deliver great speeches to decent-sized audiences!). I have written at least 75 feature articles for Northwest Aerospace News over five years. I have also recorded more than 25 interviews for “Northwest Aerospace News Live!” The show is produced by Dean Cameron and directed by Jani Bers from Top Drawer Media’s Aquarium Studio. I have interviewed at least 225 people in our regional aerospace industry, and I have enjoyed meeting each one of you. 

I am proud to be a professional and ethical writer and businesswoman. To put my family first, I have created a career that allows flexibility, long before working from home became a thing. 

The aerospace, space, and manufacturing industries in the Northwest are robust, and I value the chance to work with so many good people — each working hard, like me, to provide for their families and communities. 

When people have good values and innovative ideas, it is easy to tell great stories through our magazine and sister media. Thank you for allowing Dean Cameron and Top Drawer Media, and me by proxy, to be a part of your story in Northwest aerospace manufacturing. I hope you enjoy and share what I produce on behalf of Dean’s business and share the positivity of our work with others. 

The post Telling Your Stories Makes Me Proud appeared first on Northwest Aerospace News.

A New Era of Manufacturing

Gone are the days when manufacturing was a solitary endeavor, confined within the walls of a factory. Today, manufacturers are realizing that a sense of community and collaboration can be the keys to unlocking new levels of innovation and efficiency. The Manufacture Forward Conference and Expo exemplified this shift, providing a platform for industry players to come together, share their experiences, and collectively navigate the complex challenges facing the sector.

The Power of Community

One of the prominent takeaways from the conference was the pivotal role of community in manufacturing. In an era of globalization and intense competition, building strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and fellow manufacturers is essential. This network forms a vital support system that fosters mutual growth and resilience.

Collaborative communities can offer numerous benefits. For instance, shared insights and best practices can lead to process improvements and cost reductions. Moreover, collaborative efforts can help manufacturers pool resources for research and development, enabling them to innovate faster and stay ahead of the curve.

One inspiring case study from the conference highlighted a group of small manufacturers in the same region who came together to create a comprehensive training program for their workforce. By combining their resources and expertise with partners such as Impact Washington, Skills Inc. was able to offer a comprehensive training curriculum that none of them were likely to manage on their own. This not only improved the skill set of their workforce but also enhanced the attractiveness of the region for potential investors and proficient workers.

The Technological Revolution

While community collaboration is a driving force behind long-term competitiveness, it must be complemented by the effective adoption of technology. In today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment, embracing the latest technological advancements is imperative for survival. Automation, data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are no longer mere buzzwords; they are the building blocks of modern manufacturing.

Manufacturers at the conference shared their success stories in adopting technology to streamline their processes. Automation, for example, has enabled them to reduce labor costs and enhance product consistency. Smart manufacturing systems, powered by real-time data analytics, have improved decision-making, minimized downtime, and boosted overall efficiency.

In one remarkable case, speaker Vivek Saxena of FactoryTwin discussed how the integration of IoT sensors into their clients’ production line had transformed their operations. These sensors collected real-time data for factory analytics, increasing cash flow by 50 percent and increasing inventory turns from 2.5 to 3.75 in six months. This represented one of many use cases that support the adoption of this technology in manufacturing.

The Symbiosis of Community and Technology

What truly sets manufacturers up for long-term competitiveness is the symbiotic relationship between community collaboration and technology adoption. Manufacturers need to work collectively to leverage technology effectively. Collaborative communities are uniquely positioned to share knowledge, pool resources, and collectively invest in technology infrastructure.

The conference highlighted instances where manufacturers in a community have collectively invested in research and development to create custom technology solutions. This approach allows them to tailor technology to their specific needs, ultimately leading to enhanced competitiveness. 

Furthermore, the collaborative spirit within these communities often extends to the sharing of technology-related knowledge and expertise. This culture of continuous learning and improvement is vital for adapting to the ever-changing technological landscape. Manufacturers who actively participate in such communities find themselves better equipped to harness the full potential of new technologies.

Sustainability and Resilience

In today’s manufacturing environment, long-term competitiveness is not solely about profit margins; it’s also about sustainability and resilience. Manufacturers that focus on these aspects are better positioned to withstand economic downturns, environmental challenges, and disruptions in the supply chain.

Collaborative communities can play a significant role in promoting sustainability initiatives. Manufacturers can work together to reduce their environmental footprint, share best practices in sustainable manufacturing processes, and jointly invest in renewable energy solutions. This not only benefits the environment but also appeals to consumers who increasingly prefer eco-friendly products.

One panel of speakers from Sekisui Aerospace discussed their environmental sustainability practices and gave actionable examples that attendees could take back to implement in their own facilities.

Conclusion

The Manufacture Forward Conference and Expo offered a glimpse into the future of manufacturing — a future where collaboration within a strong community, coupled with the effective adoption of technology, is the linchpin of long-term competitiveness. Manufacturers must recognize that they are no longer isolated entities but integral parts of a larger ecosystem.

By forging connections, sharing knowledge, and collectively investing in technology, manufacturers can navigate the challenges of the modern manufacturing landscape with confidence. In doing so, they not only ensure their own survival but also contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Pacific Northwest manufacturing community. Embracing community and technology is not just a strategic choice; it’s the blueprint for a sustainable, resilient, and competitive future in manufacturing.

The post Embracing Community and Technology: Keys to Long-Term Manufacturing Competitiveness appeared first on Northwest Aerospace News.

The AUVSI Cascade Chapter Fall Symposium, held in Seattle on October 17th, 2023, was a gathering that brought together enthusiasts and professionals in the field of uncrewed and air mobility systems. This symposium provided a platform for attendees to delve into the latest innovations and insights, offering a glimpse into the exciting future of these technologies.

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers who shared their expertise and experiences. One of the highlights was Surpreet Kaur’s presentation, which shed light on NASA’s efforts to enhance the efficiency and safety of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) through the use of Data and Reasoning Fabric (DRF). This innovative approach promises to shape the future of air mobility.

Another engaging session was led by Jon Hanlon and Joshua Gordon, who discussed Zipline’s remarkable achievement of flying over 45 million commercial autonomous miles. Attendees had the opportunity to learn how Zipline safely integrates into the National Airspace System (NAS) and explore their latest business applications. This real-world success story showcased the practical applications of autonomous systems.

Kenji Sugahara and Ann B. Richart offered valuable insights into the preparation for emerging aviation technologies in the Pacific Northwest. As the directors of the Oregon Department of Aviation and the Washington State Department of Transportation, respectively, they shared their perspectives on the regional readiness for the future of aviation.

As the AUVSI Cascade Chapter Fall Symposium concluded, attendees departed with a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future of uncrewed and air mobility systems. The insightful presentations and networking opportunities left a lasting impression, underscoring the rapid progress and potential of these technologies. However, this is just the beginning of a year filled with exciting aerospace events and exhibitions that promise to shape the industry’s trajectory.

The year 2024 will be an exciting one for aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, with a trio of major aerospace events set to take place. These events — PNAA’s Annual Advance 2024 in February, Aerospace & Defense Suppliers Summit in March, Aircraft Interiors Expo in May, the Farnborough International Airshow in July, and the Japan International Aerospace Exhibition in October — will provide a platform for innovation, networking, and the unveiling of groundbreaking developments in the aerospace industry. Moreover, they emphasize the ever-growing opportunities for businesses to expand and thrive through exporting.

A significant event for the aerospace industry, the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance (PNAA) Annual Conference – Advance 2024, will bring a regional perspective to the global stage. This conference, scheduled for February 5-8, gathers aerospace professionals from across the Pacific Northwest to discuss industry trends, foster collaboration, and explore export opportunities.

The PNAA conference provides an excellent opportunity for businesses in the Pacific Northwest to expand and thrive through exporting. By participating in this event, companies can showcase their expertise, products, and services to a global audience, attract international customers, and forge partnerships with like-minded professionals in the aerospace industry. It is an essential event for those seeking to leverage the strengths of the Pacific Northwest’s aerospace sector to expand their business on the global stage.

The Aerospace & Defense Supplier Summit, scheduled for March 12-14, 2024 in Seattle, promises to be a pivotal event in the industry. This summit, a highly-anticipated gathering of some of the biggest players in aerospace and defense, is set to showcase cutting-edge technologies and foster collaborations that could shape the future of these sectors. Attendees can expect a dynamic program featuring keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops, all aimed at addressing the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the aerospace and defense fields. With Seattle’s strong legacy in aviation and innovation, this event is ideally situated to foster an environment conducive to knowledge exchange, networking, and business development.

The summit will bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including suppliers, manufacturers, government officials, and industry experts. It’s expected that topics such as sustainability, advanced materials, and the digital transformation of aerospace and defense will be at the forefront of discussions. As we navigate the evolving global landscape, the Aerospace & Defense Supplier Summit in Seattle serves as a crucial platform for industry leaders to forge meaningful partnerships and explore innovative solutions that will shape the future of aviation and national security. This event promises to be a significant milestone for the aerospace and defense sectors in 2024, offering a valuable opportunity for all attendees to stay at the forefront of the industry’s development.

The Aircraft Interiors Expo, scheduled for May 2024, is an event dedicated to the design, development, and innovation of aircraft interiors. Held at the Hamburg Messe in Germany, this annual gathering showcases the latest advancements in cabin design, in-flight entertainment, and passenger comfort. It brings together airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and suppliers from around the world, creating a vibrant atmosphere for collaboration and innovation.

In addition to demonstrating cutting-edge technologies in materials, lighting, seating, and connectivity, the Aircraft Interiors Expo is a hotspot for businesses looking to expand through exports. It’s a prime opportunity for companies to forge international partnerships and discover new markets for their innovative products and solutions. Airlines and aircraft manufacturers can use this platform to demonstrate their commitment to passenger comfort and sustainability, attracting global customers and making new exporting connections.

One of the most prestigious aerospace events globally, the Farnborough International Airshow is set to return in July 2024. Located at Farnborough Airport, U.K., this biennial event has a long history of bringing together aviation experts, military officials, and aerospace enthusiasts from around the world.

The Farnborough Airshow is known for its breathtaking aerobatic displays, presenting cutting-edge military aircraft and civilian planes. In addition to the thrilling aerial performances, the event serves as a hub for business and trade. Major aerospace companies use the Farnborough Airshow to unveil new products, announce deals, and form partnerships, laying the groundwork for increased exports and international business expansion.

With a strong emphasis on forging global business alliances, the Farnborough Airshow is where deals are struck, partnerships are formed, and exporting opportunities are realized. It’s a place where future military and civil aviation trends are often shaped, and businesses can expand their reach in the international market.

Taking place in October 2024, the Japan International Aerospace Exhibition (JIAE) offers a unique perspective on aerospace technology in Asia. This event is held at various locations across Japan and provides a platform for local and international aerospace companies to feature their innovations and connect with the Asian market.

In addition to offering insights into Asia’s thriving aerospace market, JIAE is an ideal opportunity for businesses to explore export prospects in the region. With Japan’s growing prominence in the aerospace sector, JIAE is expected to feature a wide array of cutting-edge technologies and aircraft. It’s an invaluable event for networking, learning about the Asian aerospace market, and fostering international collaborations that can lead to increased exporting opportunities.

In conclusion, the array of aerospace events in 2024 offers a multitude of opportunities for aviation enthusiasts, industry professionals, and businesses to explore the future of aviation and navigate the path to business expansion through exporting. Whether you’re interested in cabin comfort, military technology, Asia’s aerospace market, or regional excellence, these events provide a wealth of information and innovation.

For businesses interested in taking advantage of these excellent opportunities for growth through exporting, we highly recommend getting in touch with our International Trade Specialist Joanna Boatwright. She is well-versed in the intricacies of international trade and can provide valuable guidance and support. Joanna and the team are actively involved in helping businesses in Washington State make the most of these aerospace events and can assist in your joining Washington State at these trade shows. Don’t miss the chance to tap into the immense potential these aerospace exhibitions offer for business expansion and international networking.

The post Navigating the Future of Aviation and Business Expansion appeared first on Northwest Aerospace News.

For the last 10 years, the Inland Northwest Aerospace Consortium (INWAC) has led efforts to connect and promote the aerospace supply chain along the Northwest’s I-90 Corridor. Under the leadership of a committed board of directors, collaborative efforts among local companies, economic development agencies and other stakeholders established the I-90 Aerospace Corridor as a highly regarded supply chain for the industry.

Now the organization is making strides to support regional manufacturers in aerospace and other in-demand markets including space, energy, and medical devices. Rebranded as Northwest I-90 Manufacturing Alliance or NIMA (pronounced knee-muh), the trade association is also expanding its service offerings to better meet the needs expressed by local employers. 

Leading Workforce Development

A key new area of focus will be championing workforce development efforts. This work includes programming that helps companies train and upskill employees as well as initiatives that plug in students, young adults and career changers to manufacturing career opportunities.

Earlier this year, NIMA secured a $200,000 grant from the Washington Department of Commerce to renovate a machine and wood shop at East Valley High School in Spokane Valley. This project was the first phase in establishing a fully functioning, self-supporting machine shop to be run by students who will learn technical skills like welding and machining, in addition to other aspects of running a business — such as accounting, sales, and quality control.

Increasing Industry Connections

In October, NIMA partnered with the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce and CAMPS to launch the Leadership Accelerator Forum. The forum provides a platform for company owners, CEOs, and other executives to address key challenges, discuss new opportunities, and share best practices with their peers. The group will meet periodically throughout the year with the ultimate goal of growing the manufacturing sector along the I-90 Corridor.

The kick-off meeting included a jam-packed room full of leaders from varying-sized companies with diverse capabilities serving a multitude of industries. Through meetings like this, participants can identify new resources, connect with potential partners, and find new local customers. Discussions will also drive future NIMA programs.

Building Resilience

I-90 companies weathered the aerospace downturn in 2020 better than many suppliers in other regions because they were largely already diversified, serving multiple market sectors. The ability to quickly shift attention to other industries minimized lay-offs and shutdowns during an uncertain and stressful time. 

This lesson in diversification and resilience was a driving force in the decision to expand INWAC’s mission from solely serving aerospace to supporting other precision manufacturing sectors as well. Offering companies assistance in diversifying their product mix, connecting them with resources to obtain certifications, and collectively marketing the l-90 supply chain to new and growing industries, provides business opportunities and economies of scale to the  small and medium-sized shops that dot the landscape across Eastern Washington, Idaho, and Montana. 

Driving Innovation and Supporting Economic Development

With the Chips and Science Act creating opportunities to expand domestic production and innovation in key industries, NIMA has taken an active role in projects designed to secure funding for the region. Two of these projects have been submitted for consideration under the Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs program. One would establish a center for advanced composite manufacturing and research for aerospace, while the other would focus on growing the biotech ecosystem with a focus on sterile therapeutics.

Representing the existing manufacturing ecosystem, NIMA lends its support to proposed projects like these and serves as a key resource for attracting new manufacturing businesses to the region.

“Showing the breadth and depth of the I-90 supply chain to companies looking to relocate or expand gives our EDC counterparts a boost in their business attraction efforts,” Mark Norton, NIMA board chair explains.

“As new businesses set up shop here, NIMA is well positioned to help connect them with resources and other local suppliers, which creates a winning proposition for all.”

For more information about NIMA, visit www.nimalliance.org or contact us at info@nimalliance.org.

The post Trade Association Serving the Northwest I-90 Corridor Rebrands and Expands appeared first on Northwest Aerospace News.

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest and attending the University of Washington, Tran said Boeing’s strong defense presence in the region felt more like a personal calling than a career choice. Now a software engineer for Boeing Defense, Space & Security’s E-7 program, Tran’s life-changing journey as a child still motivates him to this day.

“This is something I always aspired to do,” he said. “When I work for Boeing, I feel like I am doing my part to help defend our country. And so, it’s a great honor for me.”

Boeing has built aircraft in the Pacific Northwest for more than a century. William Boeing’s “Little Red Barn” on the Duwamish River marks the birthplace of the Pacific Northwest as a global hub of aerospace supply and manufacturing. In addition to building commercial aircraft for customers around the globe, Boeing and suppliers in the Puget Sound region support the United States and allies with military platforms for national defense. These include the KC-46 tanker, the P-8 “Sub Hunter” and the E-7 Airborne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) aircraft. 

E-7: Quarterback of the Skies 

Tran began working for Boeing as a software engineer on the E-7 AEW&C program in 2004. 

Much like a quarterback on the gridiron, the E-7 scans the skies to identify threats and “calls the plays” to command and control air, surface and ground forces. These capabilities increase survivability and improve operational decision making to give U.S. and allied joint forces a tactical edge in contested environments. 

The E-7 is currently operated by air forces around the globe, with the U.S. Air Force becoming the latest customer to sign up for the E-7A aircraft. Earlier this year, Australia, the United Kingdom and the U.S. signed a tri-lateral agreement to work together in furthering E-7 capability development and interoperability, operations and sustainment, as well as training and testing.

After a 10-year stint supporting the program’s Datalink Infrastructure (DLI) – the secure communications connectivity network that provides battlespace awareness to joint forces – Tran left to work for a tech company and then a medical company in the Puget Sound region. But he never got over his calling to support the nation’s armed services.

Tran returned to Boeing to support the P-8 program in 2019 before coming back to E-7 and DLI work two years later. One of Tran’s E-7 teammates is a familiar face. His older brother Vinh, one of the three siblings who immigrated to the United States with Son and his mother, has worked as a Defense, Space & Security software engineer for 26 years. 

The Tran brothers both support the E-7A aircraft that will be delivered to the U.S. Air Force. The airframes on order will be built on the 737 Next Generation production line in Renton, Washington, and then will be converted to combat-ready E-7s in nearby Tukwila, Washington.

During his first stint as an E-7 software engineer, Son Tran vividly remembers boarding an Australian E-7 – nicknamed “Wedgetail” by the Royal Australian Air Force – and witnessing the software he coded in action as the aircraft took off from Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California.

“I was sitting in the cockpit of an E-7 and we were flying side-by-side with an F/A-18,” he recounted. “I could see the (F/A-18) pilot giving us the thumbs up. It was amazing.”

P-8: A Proven, Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft

At the same facility where the military modification of the first two E-7A aircraft for the U.S. Air Force will take place, the P-8A Poseidon’s mission systems are installed. The P-8 is a maritime surveillance and patrol aircraft flown by six allied countries around the globe, including the U.S. Navy. 

P-8 global sales and marketing representative John T. Breeden, who logged 4,553 flight hours on the P-3 Orion during 21 years of service in the U.S. Navy, said the new-age Poseidon that is replacing most P-3s has been a significant upgrade for the Navy and allies.

“The capability this aircraft has in terms of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW) and Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR) is far superior than any other maritime aircraft,” Breeden said. 

In 2022, 20 percent of BDS employees, including Breeden, were veterans. A former petty officer first class who was stationed at nearby Naval Air Station Whidbey Island from 1999 until his retirement in 2004, he points to the Island County base as a key operator of the Poseidon.

“On any given day, hour of the day and day of the week, a P-8A from Whidbey Island is most likely flying somewhere over one of our vast oceans,” he said.

Currently in production as a commercial derivative within the Boeing Mobility, Surveillance and Bombers (MS&B) division, the P-8 is built on the same 737NG production line as the E-7 and converted into a military aircraft at the Defense, Space & Security P-8 Installation and Checkout Facility in Tukwila, Washington. 

As for how the Poseidon is employed in the battlespace, Breeden points to new investments – like a recent $31.7 million contract awarded by U.S. Navy to provide ongoing evaluation, integration and delivery of the Boeing-built Multi-Mission Pod – to increase the aircraft’s capability.

“There’s that much more room for growth and experience to make this an even more viable weapons platform for the maritime warfighter,” he said.

KC-46: The world’s most advanced multi-mission aerial refueler

About 30 miles north of the P-8 and the “Little Red Barn,” another multi-mission aircraft comes alive in the Pacific Northwest.

The KC-46A Pegasus, the world’s most advanced multi-mission aerial refueler, is built to be a combat-ready tanker from day one on the 767 production line in Everett, Washington.

Real Time Software Engineer John Harriss supports situational awareness and connectivity on the tanker’s Tactical Situational Awareness System, which equips the crew with fleet data to give the U.S. and allies a tactical edge. His colleague, Jami Bunker, leads a systems engineering integration team that ensures the Pegasus continues to evolve for the needs of the mission.

“The KC-46A is a great platform for innovation and incorporating all of these advanced defensive tactical systems,” Harriss continued, “and putting fuel where it’s needed so our service members can come home safely.”

A native Washingtonian, Harriss grew up with a passion for military aviation. He started his “dream job” at Boeing, Defense Space & Security in 2019 and said he is still glowing four years later.

“When I was a kid, I think I was just very curious about technology, so I always wanted to take things apart and figure out how they worked,” Harriss said with a smile. “I think that sparked a lifetime of learning.”

As for Bunker, she harnesses the same career perseverance that brought her to Boeing’s team in the Seattle area from a small town in the Midwest. 

“Endurance really does define what the KC-46 is,” Bunker said, describing the pride she has working with the U.S. Air Force to integrate “new technologies that allow the platform to endure far into the future.”

Tran, Breeden, Bunker and Harriss represent thousands of Boeing employees – and suppliers they work with – who support a global mission on the same soil where The Boeing Company got its start. Together, this passionate and patriotic group works tirelessly to make the Pacific Northwest a bastion of national security and international stability. 

The post Supporting the Global Defense Mission in the Pacific Northwest appeared first on Northwest Aerospace News.

You never know who you might meet in a locker room at the gym that might lead to your future career. That’s what happened to Dan Reid, owner of ToughGuard. He met the company’s former owner, Bill, at the racquet club, and they developed a friendship. Over time, by talking about the business and the government contracts the company had, Reid decided he’d like to buy it. In 2012, he did so. “I waltzed into the club one day, and he was wearing an Air Force One wind jacket. ‘Guess whose product is on Air Force One? Bill said.’”

The former owner had taught Andrew’s Air Force Base personnel how to apply the ToughGuard product and had worked for the federal government. He had many contracts with the government, including the Navy, specifically to protect and maintain the cleanliness of the U.S. Navy’s worldwide communication system known as Aegis.

“It is vitally important to keep the signal sending and receiving panels clean and void of salt crystals and soot from diesel exhaust,” Reid said. And that is exactly what ToughGuard Nano Resin provides for the U.S. Navy’s Aegis communications. The ToughGuard Resin Paint Sealant product has also been tested and approved by auto OEMs, Ford Motor Company, and Volvo A.B. Sweden.

When Reid took over the business, he went to the Paris Air Show and met with an Embraer engineer, which led to Embraer testing the ToughGuard coating at their corporate headquarters in São José dos Campos, Brazil.  After two years of testing and analysis, the ToughGuard coating was approved by Embraer and was added to all ERJ commercial jet AMMs and all the corporate/private Embraer AMMs at that time. 

When applied, the ToughGuard coating is equivalent to a clear coat that physically bonds with the aircraft’s topcoat or clear coat. The ToughGuard coating has been proven through third-party independent testing laboratories to protect the paint from harmful UV rays, chemicals, pollution, carbon soot, hard-water spots, and bird and bug fouling. Not only does the product protect the paint, it also increases the gloss of the paint, and it boasts an incredible 110° surface contact angle, putting it into an almost “superhydrophobic” surface rating.  

The business name was developed because the product is Tough, and it Guardsthe paint. The durability of the coating is unmatched by competitive products. ToughGuard provides its customers a two-year product performance guarantee when a certified and trained detailing company has provided the application.  Since the ToughGuard coating has been applied to aircraft since the early 1990s, no customer has ever claimed that the product did not perform and live up to the two-year product performance guarantee. The opposite occurs — when customers tell Reid that the product outperformed what was promised! 

The Jim Miller Aircraft Painting company located in Uvalde, Texas, started using ToughGuard’s coating in the late 1990s, when they received a contract to paint VIP planes for the U.S. Air Force specifying the ToughGuard coating be applied after painting  the aircraft. They have many years of experience in applying the ToughGuard coating on planes going to places like the Middle East — where the conditions are extreme, with intense UV ray exposure, sand, dust, and humidity. Linda Du Plooy is the director of sales and marketing; she’s been with the company for nine years and said they’ve used ToughGuard since 1998. When they paint a customer’s aircraft, it is part of their contract to apply the ToughGuard coating. The application warranty  asks the customer to return after two years for cleaning and re-application of the ToughGuard product. She said, “These are not pampered aircraft in hangars,” and many aircraft without the ToughGuard coating have a buildup of black carbon soot and dirt. “We keep using it; we won’t stop using it,” she reflected, because it protects aircraft paint like no other product on the market. 

“Anytime the Toughguard coating has been tested … put to the test, it succeeds and outperforms expectations,” Reid said.

Another ToughGuard customer, Gary Force, former G-Force Aircraft Services operator, now with Dassault Aviation, Reno, Nevada, is a huge fan of the ToughGuard coating. He likes the product because it dramatically reduces cleaning maintenance time and expenses, and it helps with increasing customer satisfaction and customer retention for the Dassault company. 

Force introduced the ToughGuard coating to Dassault in 2017, having used the their coating with his own business. He said, “Not everyone is using it, but it is a great, amazing product; it provides real value to customers.” He added that in working with Dassault, they wanted to conduct UV testing with the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University. They conducted a 2,000-hour Xenon test, which replicates the weather conditions in Southern Florida (which Force said can be extreme). The ToughGuard coating and the new ToughGuard SpeedGuard coating received 98 percent for gloss retention and 94 percent for color retention. “It outperformed what I thought it would do,” Force said.  

In 2008, Boeing tested ToughGuard at the request of the U.S. Air Force. Boeing conducted a blind test on five different coating products — the results were more favorable and positive for the ToughGuard coating, and Boeing issued an NTO for their use of the U.S. Air Force’s most recognized 747 VIP aircraft(s). 

Reid also said British Airways conducted several fuel burn savings tests in 2013. The results were positive, and Dan Reid was told by British Airway’s chief chemical engineer that they were getting a reduction of about .75 fuel efficiency, and with an annual fuel cost of three billion dollars, there was a potential for enormous savings using the ToughGuard coating on their fleet. Also, the chief chemical engineer stated that he firmly believed that using the ToughGuard coating would extend the paint service life by at least two years, as he observed how well the coating protected the paint from rain erosion and chemicals.   

Even with the success of ToughGuard, Reid has kept his team small, with five employees. He stated that ToughGuard outsources all the product manufacturing to a chemical manufacturer in Oregon, which is ISO 9001 and ISO 9015 certified. “Knowing that our products are consistently manufactured to the highest of standards is vital to ToughGuard and the performance of our products for our customers. They know they will always receive ToughGuard products they can rely on.”

ToughGuard coating products are based on highly unique proprietary formulations, unlike any other coating products available on the market. Even though the original formula was invented 30 years ago, it remains the standard bearer, with which no other product can compare. Reid notes, “We also have improved the product from its original formulation, and it has taken the product to another level of performance. We are constantly formulating other high-performance coating products such as our SpeedGuard Hybrid Ceramic coating and our ToughGuard NHP Xtreme polyurethane clear coat product line. As a company, we are not standing still and are always innovating new and better products for our customers worldwide.”

Reid is always looking for expansion opportunities as a business owner — new customers and distributors are on his radar and he is developing the sales team in different markets. 

“Our products always outperformed the customer’s expectations.” Reid said that 80 percent of ToughGuard’s customer base is in the aviation/aerospace market. That is due to all the testing, validation, approvals, and accreditation the ToughGuard coating products have received over the past 30-plus years. The performance of the product is proven in aviation. ToughGuard customers recognize it and appreciate the value the ToughGuard coating products provide them. Force concluded, “I know their product, for Dassault as a corporation, has been huge. The maintenance side and service side are (about) customer retention. One of my big sells to Dassault was, “Here’s a product we put on the aircraft, with a two-year warranty – they have to come back within two years to re-apply.” He said it proves good customer service and good maintenance service, when the business can call back owners and operators and prove that the aircraft is virtually unchanged after two years. 

Force and Du Plooy declared that most aircraft could go longer between ToughGuard maintenance visits, because the product is so effective! 

Contact Information

ToughGuard High Performance Coatings
5600 SW Arctic Dr. Ste 120 
Beaverton, OR 97005
Phone: (503) 746-7171
Web: www.ToughGuard.com

The post HP ToughGuard Protecting Surfaces appeared first on Northwest Aerospace News.

For over 40 years, A & G Machine Inc. in Auburn, Washington, has worked to achieve the highest quality machining and manufacturing capabilities within the aerospace industry. In fact, to this day, the founders and owners, Abe Mathew and Guy Hall, are still involved in the day-to-day business operations of their company. According to the Director of Business Development, John Rienzo, Hall and Mathew worked as machinists early in their careers. It was 1983 when these two Boeing machinists decided to take a chance and “strike out on their own.” Utilizing the initials of their first names, A & G Machine was conceived.  They bought machines and started a business. Through numerous years of continued innovation and reinvesting, the company has grown from a single-car garage in West Seattle to five manufacturing facilities with 37 machine centers, encapsulating 125,000 square feet of manufacturing space across three campuses in Auburn, Washington. This story is about a family-oriented business offering good jobs in a safe, community-oriented environment. 

Ferdinand Delino is a lead in the assembly department at the company. He’s been in the role for over two years but has 25 years of experience in the industry. He said, “I like coming to work. This is the best place I’ve worked. It is a small company; it is not unionized, and it is a family culture.” He supervises 12 people in his department. 

Delino said there is shared expertise in the business. “If there are things you don’t know, they can help” — they effectively communicate and brainstorm ideas. There is always a “higher knowledge where you can get guidance, and someone will support you.” Since 80 percent of manufactured components are in a sub-assembly configuration, Rienzo said that is value added for customers. He said they take machined components through assembly and ship the product under a single part number (in some cases), while handling material procurement, machining, processing, painting, and assembly. 

Rienzo has been in the aerospace industry since 2004 and has a background as an aircraft repair mechanic in the Navy. He has led aerospace manufacturing teams in the private sector since 2009. He enjoys the advanced technologies in the industry. He said, “The product we build is going into space or some version of either passenger or military aircraft.” 

The company’s mission is “We pledge to maintain a safe, environmentally friendly workplace in recognition of our responsibilities to our employees, customers, and community. We take great pride in our communal activities.”

Regarding safety and environmental friendliness, Rienzo noted, “We hold ourselves to the industry’s standards and the environmental impact and ensure excess waste is recycled to EPA regulations. Machine shops can be dirty, but A & G prides itself on its cleanliness, which is apparent compared to other machine shops of our size.” They have 90 employees. 

Community activities within the company are important; he said they have a different culture compared to other shops of their size. Rienzo and A & G Sales Manager Kevin Kacer, both said that the company focuses highly on their employees, attributing the treatment and respect for employees to the founders/owners Mathew and Hall. Kacer added, “Our mission is to take care of employees first and foremost. Our owners are very employee oriented and care about the employees; they care for customers and each of us.”

Rienzo stated, “The management team is unified; owners have much experience to help train the team on the floor and the management team. It is a good company to build a foundation and have an opportunity for growth.”

Kacer has been with the company for 18 years. He feels that they excel with on-time delivery. He also said they have machines that competitors traditionally haven’t had, although that is changing. They initially had much larger machines, “but it is now more competitive.” So, they strive for high-quality and on-time delivery, “which separates us from others.” 

Kacer also noted, “The factory is very safety oriented, well organized, very clean, and top-notch. Departments are labeled with overhead signs,” which is helpful for new employees. He likes how the owners and management help employees, new or long term. “We have two owners; they’ve been in business 40 years and have built the company from the ground up. They have done a great job of reinvesting in the company and (being) ready to do business. With that comes being family-oriented; both owners are very involved.”

Rienzo shared that their shop is primarily comprised of 5-axis machines. They have large gantry-style machines and worktables as large as 322 inches long by 143 inches wide. “To put that in perspective, our largest machine is the size of a drive-through car wash.” He explained that their high-speed aluminum machines (MAG 3’s) and Jobs gantry machines mean decreased spindle time and increased throughput. “This is an advantage to both our customers and us. We manufacture very large and complex pieces, and the decreased manufacturing time, coupled with our location, means that customers can rely on quality parts to be delivered faster than our competition.”

Their quality assurance department also offers large-scale inspection, “We have very large CMM inspection equipment; all of them from standard gantry style to Leica laser trackers. The Leica measures the parts via a laser eye corresponding to a handheld device and can be manipulated around the laser head for minute measurements down to 1/1000th of an inch.” Rienzo said they have eight employees in that department. A & G currently does not plan to implement AI or robotics in the factory, “due to the size of our machines and material,” he added. 

The employees interviewed felt location is also a key to their success. Rienzo observed that they are central to all aerospace activity in the Northwest and within driving distance of customer sub-assembly plants. “Our location means we can get the customer’s product to the final assembly lines faster.”

He also stated that they have good relationships with raw material providers. Standard raw materials are easily obtained, but unique raw materials for space projects can be harder to find. Rienzo said, “Certain materials for space can be harder to get – the material going to space is typically an alloy of a different grade. If the customer wants something built out of rare or unique material, they usually buy the raw material they need.” Many customers will go in and purchase an entire mill run and then warehouse it. He feels that when the raw material market stabilizes, the customers might push unique raw material purchases back to manufacturers. 

The company would like more space-related and medical contracts, while continuing to support commercial aerospace. Kacer said, “We have the machines and personnel to make anything happen.” Rienzo added they are actively hiring and are currently reviewing resumes. However, due to the industry’s current state, he felt the decreased commercial rate may hamper growth. He thought they may add 20-25 positions over the next few years. 

Delino looks forward to continued employee celebrations and camaraderie, “We are always having some kind of company event.” On Fridays, a food truck is on-site for breakfast or lunch. He also shared that General Manager Jim George is engaged with each employee and truly cares about their well-being. He is also impressed by Abe Mathew and his leadership, “That guy is amazing.” Lastly, he said he learns much from John Rienzo and highly values his skill set. Overall, the company offers a family-oriented environment that respects and rewards employees for good work conducting manufacturing in Washington’s Auburn Valley. 

Contact Information: 

A & G Machine

1231 37th Street NW

Auburn, WA 98001

253-887-8433

www.agmach.com

The post Strong Foundations appeared first on Northwest Aerospace News.