Aerospace sector in the Central Okanagan can lead the way in economic growth

Uncategorized November 23, 2017

The Central Okanagan is home to a growing segment of well-established and emerging aerospace companies and suppliers offering a diverse range of products and services, including Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul/In-Service Support (MRO-ISS), rotary wing and avionics.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan’s Economic Development Commission (COEDC) with support from Global Affairs Canada and the Kelowna International Airport (YLW), commissioned the Central Okanagan Aerospace Core Competencies Study, Asset Map and Regional Database. The project’s objective is to better understand the Central Okanagan aerospace sector’s core competencies, value proposition and identify tactics in order to drive growth and attract new investment in the sector.

The study captures the capabilities of the Central Okanagan aerospace sector in relation to the global environment, provides an analysis of the regional ecosystem and drivers, and includes strategies and tactics provided in an opportunity matrix. The information was gathered through 40 in-depth interviews with Central Okanagan aerospace companies, government organizations and industry associations, along with extensive secondary research.

“A supportive infrastructure and emerging opportunities with UBC Okanagan’s Learning Factory, paired with companies adopting industry 4.0 concepts and practises, provide a strong opportunity for growth of the Central Okanagan aerospace sector” states Corie Griffiths, Director of the COEDC.