Northwest Aerospace News Issue No. 26 April | May 2022 | Page 49

Throughout the 3-day conference , we heard presentations from industry representatives and analysts that repeated the theme of collaboration and its importance on topics ranging from sustainability to mitigating looming supply chain risks due to geo-political turmoil , to digital transformation and the transition to Industry 4.0 , to successfully cultivating , training and retaining workers as the demands from ramp-up take place .

Consistent in their continued dedication to the Cluster , regional industry businesses generously shared their experiences , best practices , and insights on the main stage and SME tracks . With significant research , innovation , and steady progress , key manufacturing companies are implementing sustainable solutions in manufacturing systems and advancing technology integration with Industry 4.0 . thereby reducing costs and improving first-time quality . At the OEM level , impressive and exciting investments are being made in battery-powered electric aircraft , hydrogen-based propulsion systems , jet engines ’ efficiency improvements , and a solid foundation and infrastructure for the long-term production and use of sustainable aviation fuels .
Industry analysts reviewed the year and set the tone for recovery and future opportunities . Over those incredibly productive three days , 36 presentations involving 54 industry professionals and experts delivered the latest market intelligence , trends , analytics .
APRIL | MAY 2021 ISSUE NO . 26 49