Collaborating for the Future of Thermoplastic Composites
With the deadline fast approaching for phase two application of the Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs Competition, ATC has been busy collaborating with industry, educational institutions, workforce organization and the community at large to develop a strong phase two application.
As the American Aerospace Materials Manufacturing Center gains momentum, it serves as a nexus for innovation, bringing together industry leaders, local businesses, and manufacturers for a shared vision of progress in the aerospace sector. ATC takes pride in its role in these growing initiatives, positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of aviation technology. Some other recent collaborations have included:
THIS WEEK: Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance (PNAA) Conference
If you plan to attend PNAA Advanced next week, ATC’s David Leach, Jacob Bonwell along with Boeing’s Randy Wilkerson will be giving an update on the Tech Hub at the Advance 2024 Conference about on Wednesday, February 7th at 8:15am.
Coeur d’Alene Executive Roundtable on February 14th
ATC will be hosting the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber’s Executive Roundtable on February 14th, 2024. Roundtable members will get the chance to see how thermoplastic composites are changing the future of aviation by pioneering high-rate manufacturing methods for recyclable composite parts for commercial applications.
Leadership Accelerator Forum hosted by the City of Spokane Valley
Recently, ATC’s C.E.O. Jacob Bonwell and Lakeside’s Marketing and Communications Manager, Nick Roach, spoke to the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce, as well as Executive Director Mark Norton and additional members of the NW I-90 Manufacturing Alliance (NIMA) about the Tech Hub. The presentation covered key aspects such as the basic timeline, structure, and goals of the Tech Hub initiative, providing attendees with a comprehensive overview.
Questions were actively encouraged, fostering discussion on potential support opportunities within the Tech Hub, including avenues for manufacturers to contribute. Additionally, some inquired whether other industries or verticals would be pursued outside of aerospace. Overall, the event facilitated constructive conversation and collaboration, and ATC was extremely proud to be represented by our C.E.O.
Interview with Northwest Aerospace News Live
David Leach and Maria Lusardi shared insights in a recent interview with Northwest Aerospace News Magazine, discussing the AAMMC Tech Hub’s regional designation in Spokane/CDA and exploring the project’s implications. In particular, David Leach highlighted ATC’s role in manufacturing aerospace components using highly reinforced thermoplastic composites. While these materials have found their place in numerous aircraft parts, the next frontier involves their application on a larger scale in the next generation of aircraft—precisely where the Tech Hub steps in.
ATC’s expertise lies in the production of aerospace components using advanced thermoplastic composites. The proposed Tech Hub, being a collaborative effort, relies heavily on community support. Therefore, local manufacturers and businesses are instrumental in establishing this facility. Maria Lusardi emphasized Lakeside Companies’ active engagement with the Tech Hub, collaborating with the community to repurpose the “Triumph Facility.” Originally envisioned for industry-related goals, Lakeside wanted to see a purpose that would drive growth and employment in manufacturing fields, making the tech hub the perfect reimagining of the Triumph Facility.
Upcoming: JEC World 5-7, Paris
Additionally, both the AAMMC Tech Hub and ATC Manufacturing will be represented at JEC World from March 5- March 7 in Paris, France, with the U.S. Pavillion in Hall 6, Booth Q52. You can stop by the booth to observe thermoplastic composite parts, and learn more about the advantages of thermoplastic composite manufacturing.