Press Release
Executive Director's Update
By Karin MacMillan
Feb 27, 2008, 13:35

Federal and Provincial Budgets' Impact on BC Aerospace Industry


Two new budgets--by the federal and BC governments--have a few items of note for BC Aerospace Industry members.

The BC Government Budget delivered Feb. 20 contained continuing tax reductions for both small businesses and corporate income tax rates.

The small business tax rate falls to 3.5% from 4.5% this year and to 2.5% by 2011.

The corporate income tax rate falls to 11% from 12% this year and to 10% by 2011.

In terms of attracting employees to BC, our stunningly-high housing costs are partially (and only partially) offset for employers recruiting by BC now having the lowest personal tax rates in the country to the $111,000 annual salary category.

The BC government also extended the SRED Tax Credit program to 2014 to encourage greater investment in new technologies

BC also announced:

$7 million to expand the Provincial Nominee Program and attract more skilled workers and entrepreneurs to British Columbia;
$5 million to enhance the Skills Connect for Immigrants and International Qualifications programs to connect skilled immigrants with employment opportunities.

Offsetting these measures was the introduction of Canada's first carbon tax, $10 a ton starting this year and rising to $30 a ton by $2012. The impact on manufacturers remains somewhat unclear, but what is clear is that the tax will contribute to rising energy input costs for manufacturers as everything from fuel to BC hydro rates will escalate significantly.

With BC's high labour rates, increasing energy costs and the tremendous increase in the Canadian dollar (again trading above the US dollar), nothing in the provincial or subsequent Feb. 26 federal budget will offset the host of rising input costs for aerospace this year.

The federal budget was described by Minister Flaherty as a "prudence" budget and it contained few items directly affecting aerospace, with the exception of a provision around the accelerated equipment depreciation measure.

This budget extends the two-year write-off for one year then provides two additional years of declining depreciation rates.


Federal and Provincial Budgets' Impact on BC Aerospace Industry


Two new budgets--by the federal and BC governments--have a few items of note for BC Aerospace Industry members.

BC Budget
The BC Government Budget delivered Feb. 20 contained continuing tax reductions for both small businesses and corporate income tax rates.

The small business tax rate falls to 3.5% from 4.5% this year and to 2.5% by 2011.

The corporate income tax rate falls to 11% from 12% this year and to 10% by 2011.

In terms of attracting employees to BC, our stunningly-high housing costs are partially (and only partially) offset for employers recruiting by BC now having the lowest personal tax rates in the country to the $111,000 annual salary category.

The BC government also extended the SRED Tax Credit program to 2014 to encourage greater investment in new technologies

BC also announced:

$7 million to expand the Provincial Nominee Program and attract more skilled workers and entrepreneurs to British Columbia;
$5 million to enhance the Skills Connect for Immigrants and International Qualifications programs to connect skilled immigrants with employment opportunities.

Offsetting these measures was the introduction of Canada's first carbon tax, $10 a ton starting this year and rising to $30 a ton by $2012. The impact on manufacturers remains somewhat unclear, but what is clear is that the tax will contribute to rising energy input costs for manufacturers as everything from fuel to BC hydro rates will escalate significantly.

With BC's high labour rates, increasing energy costs and the tremendous increase in the Canadian dollar (again trading above the US dollar), nothing in the provincial or subsequent Feb. 26 federal budget will offset the host of rising input costs for aerospace this year.

Federal Budget

The federal budget was described by Minister Flaherty as a "prudence" budget and it contained few items directly affecting aerospace, with the exception of a provision around the accelerated equipment depreciation measure.

This budget extends the two-year write-off for one year then provides two additional years of declining depreciation rates.

The SR&ED Tax Credit system will allow a 10 per cent allowance for international collaborative research. The expenditure limit for R&D spending by Canadian owned privately held companies will be increased from $2 to $3 million, and the upper limit for taxable capital and income phase-out will be increased to $50 million and $700,000 respectively. Total benefit = $70 million over the next two years.


Administrative improvements will also be made in the SR&ED system – the measures, if implemented, would follow CME’s recommendations to provide greater certainty and streamline processing of tax credit claims.

The EDC will increase its guarantee coverage under its Export Guarantee Program, from 75 per cent to 90 per cent for loans to exporters of up to $500,000

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YEAR END ACTIVITY REPORT

1. Labour Market Challenges – The AIABC has been working to educate the Government of British Columbia about the challenges associated with the current shortage of skilled labour in the aerospace industry and the need for more flexible labour training and recruitment programs to meet the needs of industry.

A. BC Nominee Program - AIABC has met with the BC Nominee Program, which is primarily designed to support BC companies need to hire foreign workers, through an immigration process. The BC Nominee Program is working to expedite the recruitment process in an effort to meet the labour market needs of the BC aerospace industry.

B. Destination Canada Recruitment Job Fairs – The BC Ministry of Economic Development, together with the Government of Canada have developed Destination Canada Job Fair program designed to provide BC and Canadian companies with an opportunity to recruit temporary and permanent foreign workers. The AIABC is currently working with the Ministry of Economic Development to identify target labour markets, for the purpose of organizing aerospace industry specific job fairs in those target markets. This will provide AIABC member companies with an excellent opportunity to directly present job offers to potential recruits in targeted markets. The AIABC looks forward to presenting interesting labour market opportunities to AIABC members in the New Year.

C. BC Aerospace Industry Training Programs - On September 12, 2007, the BC Government announced a new $76.5-million aerospace training campus, Canada’s first post-secondary institution with control tower simulation technology, for B.C.’s aerospace and aviation training industry to develop the skilled labour it needs to continue to grow and thrive. The opening of the new Aerospace Technology Centre also marks the 50th year of aerospace training in British Columbia.
The new Aerospace Technology Centre is a 19,970 square-metre campus with 40 classrooms, computer labs, a library, and a seminar room with global teleconferencing capabilities that support BCIT’s new air traffic management programs. A 3,700-square-metre glass hangar houses BCIT’s fleet of helicopters and other aircraft.
The new campus will provide 500 new student spaces now, increasing to a total of 1,000 new student places by 2010. These new training seats are in addition to the existing 670 training seats in Richmond, Abbotsford, Dawson Creek, Vernon, Kelowna, Victoria and Campbell River.
The number one issue challenging BC’s aerospace industry training programs is the difficulty associated with recruiting students into the aerospace programs and maintaining sufficient enrolment numbers. The AIABC and BCIT have agreed to work more closely together on recruitment initiatives to encourage greater enrollment and industry training participation.

D. BC Aerospace Industry Training Organization for Aerospace – The AIABC has been tasked by the Industry Training Authority (ITA), the agency responsible for the industry training and apprenticeship system in British Columbia, to undertake a review of the feasibility of developing an industry training organization (ITO) for the aerospace/aviation industry in BC.

This review arose out of a proposal for an ITO made earlier this year. The ITA Policy Committee is generally supportive of an ITO for the industry but requested that further analysis and consultation be done. The views of key industry stakeholders are a crucial component of this process. In addition to the AIABC, stakeholders include the BC Aviation Council, Transport Canada, and CAMC, aerospace and aviation employers and labour associations.

Essential components of the review include:

• Assessing the viability of a coordinating vehicle for BC aerospace/aviation workforce development, including labour market information, careers marketing and promotion, and training program development and delivery.
• Reviewing the efficacy of the current aerospace/aviation programs – Aircraft Maintenance Technician and Aircraft Structural Technician – and analyzing other related occupations and workplace-based training programs to assess their potential to be included in a broader industry training strategy.
• Surveying AIABC and BC Aviation Council members, industry stakeholders, and education providers to obtain their input and assess their support for the development of an ITO.

A key issue of concern regarding the future viability of an aerospace ITA relates to the fact that the utilization of the only two existing aerospace apprenticeship programs - the AME and structural technicians’ apprenticeship programs – are running at 58% utilization and 75% utilization, with a combined cost of $4.1 million annually.

The ITA was established by the Provincial Government in 2004, with a mandate to develop an industry-led training system that is outcome based and focused on key sectors of the BC economy. ITOs are initiated and supported by industry and approved by the ITA. Currently, six ITOs are operational in the residential and industrial construction, resource, automotive, horticulture, and tourism and hospitality sectors.

The draft review was completed in late November 2007 and will be approved and finalized by the AIABC Board of Directors in January 2008 for consideration by the ITA who will consider the need for an ITO in the aerospace/aviation industry.

E. Human Resource Strategy for the Canadian Aerospace Industry - The AIABC participated in the first of two Industry Workshops to address human resources needs in the Canadian Aerospace Industry. The Canadian Aerospace Associations’ Human Resources Alliance (CAAHRA) is working with the Provincial Associations across Canada to define an HR Vision for the future as well as actions to realize this vision. The first Industry Workshop was held on September 18, 2007 and attended by eight representatives of major BC employers as well as representatives from the provincial and federal governments; educational institutions; and the BC Aviation Council. A second Industry Workshop will be held early in 2008 to further develop the ideas discussed.

This work is being undertaken to help enable the industry to meet dramatically changing market demands and to respond constructively to demographic realities. The project is providing the opportunity for provincial, regional and national industry stakeholders to work together actively to establish a ‘shared vision’, and to contribute their knowledge and experience.

Specific topics being addressed are: Ensuring the continual availability of people; securing people with the required knowledge, skills and work values; improving the perception of the industry as a career path of choice; achieving a national focus & coordination around industry strengths.


2. AIABC Government Relations Program – Improving BC’s Aerospace Industry’s National and International Competitive Position

A. AIABC Federal Government Relations Program – AIABC provided an update to the Board on the development of a government relations program with the Federal Government. The AIABC is organizing meetings with targeted Federal Government Departments and Agencies such as Western Economic Diversification and Industry Canada, the Department of Public Works and Government Services and National Defence to educate the federal government about the significance of, and current business challenges of the aerospace industry, with a view towards encouraging the Government of Canada to better support the Aerospace Industry in British Columbia and across western Canada. Briefing documents have been prepared and distributed to government and a program of direct meetings with government officials at both the bureaucratic and political levels of government has been initiated, including Minister Rona Ambrose and Minister Fortier.

Meetings with the federal government to date have identified the fact that the Government of Canada does not have a good understanding of the current status of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the aerospace industry, particularly with respect to their current capacity to participate in Canada’s Industrial Regional Benefits program. AIABC Chair, Paul Kalil, with support from the AIABC Executive Director has developed briefing documents and engaged in direct meetings with the Government of Canada to educate government on this issue and engage the government in a more practical support program for the aerospace industry.

The second focus of discussions with the Government of Canada at this time is to enhance the capacity of Western Economic Diversification to support the western aerospace industry and provide greater resources – both human and financial - to the aerospace industry with respect to improving the competitive position and support mechanisms available to BC’s aerospace industry.

As noted above, through the WAA, the AIABC is also working to develop a targeted aerospace marketing program that would work for the benefit of all AIABC members at both a national and international level.

The Government of Canada indicated that the Ministry of Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC) is being challenged by a lack of sufficient responses from industry to their various procurement and service bid requests. The government indicated that some of the feedback they are receiving is that the complexity of the bid process is too cumbersome and the government needs to work to make this process more efficient.

B. AIABC Provincial Government Relations Program – AIABC has implemented a regular program of meetings with the Government of British Columbia through the Ministry of Economic Development to enhance the relationship between BC’s aerospace industry and the BC Government and to educate the government on the current challenges being experienced by the aerospace industry and discuss ways the government could support the industry. At this time, the AIABC is focusing discussions with government on two primary topics. The first topic of discussion is the skilled labour shortage and its negative impact on the continued growth and development of BC’s aerospace industry and the need to design flexible training programs and flexible foreign worker processes. The second topic of discussion is focused on the need for government to better support the competitive position of the aerospace industry with a focus on providing both funding and political support for the development of targeted national and international business development marketing programs.


3. Enhancing Business Development Opportunities for AIABC Member Companies

A. IRB Trade Mission (Boeing and Lockheed Martin) – The AIABC represented AIABC members at a Western Economic Diversification sponsored Trade Mission to St. Louis to meet with Boeing representatives and to Atlanta to meet with Lockheed-Martin representatives. A detailed report on the IRB opportunities with Boeing and Lockheed Martin, and other OEMs, as well as a listing of OEM contacts was prepared and distributed to all AIABC members to ensure all AIABC members had access to the information required to approach the OEMs should they be interested in doing so.

B. Aerospace Industry Trade and Marketing Shows - The AIABC works to support the development and implementation of, and representation of AIABC member companies at, national and international aerospace industry trade and marketing shows. At this time, the AIABC is focused on participation in three primary Air Shows:

Abbotsford Air Show – AIABC worked with the City of Abbotsford and the Canadian Consulate in Seattle as well as industry representatives including Cascade Aerospace to support the preparations for the Abbotsford Air Show. Emphasis was placed on hosting key Washington State aerospace representatives at a sponsored trade mission/business development event held at Cascade Aerospace facilities prior to the opening of the Abbotsford Air Show.

Farnborough and Paris Air Shows – The AIABC has identified the need to elevate and strengthen the competitive presence of BC companies at international trade shows with an emphasis on the Farnborough and Paris Air Shows. The AIABC has approached the BC Government and the Government of Canada for the purpose of seeking funding support for the development of a permanent and sophisticated marketing trade show display to successfully present AIABC member companies in the international marketplace. The AIABC is also working with the WAA to seek assistance from the Government of Canada.

C. Beijing 2008 Business Development Program Opportunity – The AIABC entered into discussions and meetings with the Ministry of Economic Development, Asia Pacific Unit and the BC Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Secretariat, who are working together to offer the aerospace and aviation industries in British Columbia an opportunity to participate in their Beijing Business Program. The Beijing Business Program will feature “Industry Weeks” to showcase the province’s industry, culture and innovation for five months around the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games. The Ministry of Economic Development and the BC Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Secretariat offered to provide the BC-Canada Pavilion to AIABC members as well as business matching services to help BC companies identify potential Chinese trade partners for meetings in China.

To gauge the level of interest among BC companies, the AIABC conducted a poll of all members. Only one company expressed interest in participating in the Beijing Business Program. Most AIABC member companies expressed concerns related to the protection of intellectual property as their reason for not wanting to participate in the program at this time.

D. AIABC Participation in the Western Aerospace Association -

i. Renewed WAA MOU – AIABC Chair Paul Kalil was instrumental in achieving the signing of a renewed Western Aerospace Association (WAA) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Canada’s four western provincial aerospace associations to work more closely together for the purpose of developing sophisticated marketing programs to promote western Canada’s aerospace industry to targeted national and international business development opportunities, and to increase access to federal funding , resources and services in support of developing and diversifying the western Canadian aerospace industry.

ii. WAA Government Relations – The WAA has entered into discussions with the Government of Canada, with Industry Canada and Western Economic Diversification, as well as Public Works and Government Services Canada and National Defence, as primary points of communication, to request funding and political support for the development of targeted marketing materials including a WAA website, the development of a comprehensive aerospace database, a Strategic Marketing Plan, and a permanent Trade Show Exhibit. The WAA is also requesting political support for national and international trade and business development opportunities targeted by the WAA and its member companies.

iii. WAA Reverse OEM Trade Mission – The WAA has developed a conceptual proposal to implement a reverse OEM Trade Mission that envisions bringing Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to western Canada for the dedicated purpose of showcasing western aerospace firms and their capabilities to OEMs as the OEMs work to fulfill their Industrial Regional Benefits obligations. The objective of the proposed Reverse OEM Trade Mission is to create an opportunity for a greater number of western aerospace firms to participate in the Industrial Regional Benefits program.


4. Aerospace Industry Workshops -

The AIABC worked to offer all AIABC member companies the opportunity to participate in two industry workshops – both at no extra cost to members.

A. Think Asia Workshop - The Ministry of Economic Development and the BC Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Secretariat in cooperation with the AIABC hosted a “Think Asia – China 2008” workshop for AIABC members. This was an introductory workshop for doing business in China. The workshop presented two different perspectives to create a balanced and insightful experience for workshop attendees. The Think Asia workshop was designed for BC's small and medium enterprises (BC SMEs), and delivered practical information to develop business trade and take advantage of the significant upcoming opportunities in China. Participants had the opportunity to hear from both BC business people with China trade and government experience as well as Chinese business people with BC experience.

B. Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative Workshop – Industry Canada in cooperation with the AIABC hosted a workshop to present Industry Canada’s recently launched Canada Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative (SADI). SADI supports private sector industrial research and pre-competitive development (R&D) in Canada's aerospace, defence, security and space (A&D) industries through repayable project contributions. These repayable contributions are designed to encourage much-needed Canadian private sector investment in research and development.

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Aeroinfo, A Boeing Company: We actually welcome AeroInfo back to the association after a brief break from membership. However, since that time, the company has grown dramatically, largely due to its new business focus of providing Business Consulting Services, Business Applications Solutions and Information Technology Services to solve your corporation’s Mission Critical Business & Technology challenges. Our customers are constantly adapting to the marketplace & need to understand how to effectively meet the demands in a competitive environment. AeroInfo provides these services to address those sophisticated challenges with practical & create solutions. AeroInfo, over the past 10 years, has helped customers around the world from Canada to China to the USA. We started in the Airline industry and are applying what we know to corporations within the Aerospace & Defense, Transportation, Logistics and Security industries. AeroInfo not only has significant resources and experience but is also unique in that we can draw on Intellectual Property from within Boeing’s commercial, military and space experience in an agile and quick responding manner. For more information, please contact: Blair Nadeau at(604) 232-4200 or blair.nadeau@aeroinfo.com

Apprenticeship and Technical Training forum – April 18
As all of you should be aware, AIABC is in the process of applying for status as the Industry Training Organization for aerospace trades and technical training. If you employ apprentices or other workers requiring technical training, this forum will have an important and lasting impact on your business.
At this industry forum AIABC will define many aspects of the proposed ITO, as well as the scope and structure of the organization. Responsibility for training is being transferred to industry and if you want a voice in how that is handled, you must be here! For more details, including an agenda, and for registration information (there is no cost to attend!) click here.

Aerospace Career Fair
On April 19, BCIT's Aerospace and Technology Campus will be the venue for hundreds of high school students interested in careers in aerospace. Sponsors include: Avcorp Industries, BCIT, Cascade Aerospace, Heli-One, Kelowna Flightcraft, MDA and Viking Air. Other participating stakeholders include CAMC, DND, North Island College, SFU, and UBC. This is an invitation-only event, but if you are interested in participating, please give me a call. We really could use giveaways, prizes, hands-on exhibits and other ideas that will engage students in thinking of career opportunities in space, manufacturing and maintenance. Already more than 350 students from 8 school districts have signed up to attend!

Air Canada Job Fair
The unfortunate layoffs at Air Canada recently are an opportunity for other labour-starved BC aerospace companies. A job fair for companies wishing to hire Air Canada employees is being held April 26 in the Air Canada hangar. If you would like more information about this event, please contact Mélany Le Myre, Staffing Manager, ACTS, at (514) 856-6756.

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Membership Renewals
Please look for your 2007-2008 AIABC membership renewal forms in the mail this week. For the 10th consecutive year, AIABC fees remain unchanged. Please continue to support the activities of your provincial aerospace association!

Invite list for Canada Reception at Paris Airshow
The Canadian reception at Paris (Sunday June 17) is one of the hottest events going, and invitations are hard to come by, especially as the event draws near. Secure a spot for yourself – and most importantly, for any guests you would like to entertain – by forwarding contact information to AIABC. Don't even think about showing up at the door; you will not be admitted! But if there is even a small chance you may attend, you should let me know! It is a great way to use the Canadian presence at Paris to your advantage! Deadline for invitation requests is April 15. Send them to info@aiabc.com

Even if you can't attend the reception but plan to be at the show, please let me know. There is lots going on and more opportunities to participate in events coming up. AIABC will keep you informed.

If you wish to take part in the Western Canada Aerospace stand, which is part of the Canada Showcase, please call Andrew at the AIABC office at 604 538 0071. This is a great, low-cost option for companies seeking a physical presence at the world's largest aerospace show!

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Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative
It was a good week for aerospace this week with the announcement of some $900 million in support for research and development of new technology. Aerospace and defence is knowledge-intensive, a boon in today's global knowledge economy. The industry is Canada's third largest investor in research and development (R&D), accounting for 11 percent of all industrial R&D. Through R&D, aerospace and defence industries develop technological breakthroughs such as robotics and new lightweight materials, and remain important first users of enabling technologies- new technologies, like nanotechnology and advanced manufacturing. By providing repayable contributions to aerospace and defence companies, the government helps to ensure that Canadian aerospace and defence companies undertake strategic R&D, and that Canadians will benefit from these investments.
Supporting R&D in these industries also means Canada can encourage leading international aerospace and defence companies to do business here, retaining and increasing foreign investment. At the same time, Canada becomes very attractive to top scientific and engineering talent in cutting-edge aerospace and defence industries. For more information on the program, please visit: www.ito.gc.ca and click on the SADI link.

Pyrotek Heat Treating is hiring
Individual required for full time position in metal processing. Applicant must have a solid ISO background, excellent leadership abilities and organizational skills. A metallurgical background and knowledge of aluminum alloys used in the aerospace industry an asset. Please send resume to lecro66@hotmail.com.

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AIAC Annual Survey
You should already have received a copy of the AIAC Annual Survey. If so, PLEASE FILL IT OUT!! Due to lousy return rates, the size and scope of BC's aerospace industry is regularly under reported. What does that mean? Basically, it is a yardstick that is often used to assess the need for programs, funding, or other government activities in various regions across the country. As a small stick to encourage companies to return their forms, AIABC will no longer entertain complaints of Western alienation or favouritism for other parts of the country from companies that did not return their surveys. So there.
Get your copy by clicking here to sending an e-mail to Vlada Shilina at AIAC. All responses are confidential.

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BCIT "How to" Workshops
BCIT has again scheduled the 2007 "How To" workshop series to run from June 4th through June 22nd again this year. This will be the 18th consecutive year that BCIT has offered this series of workshops in support of economic development through nurturing business development. These workshops identify where improvements in business performance can take place and how to actually implement them. These workshops also provide the participants with the rare opportunity of discussing business issues with other practitioners at their level. The "How To" workshop series cover: Materials Management, Process Improvement, People Skills. For more information, please contact Richard Ranfl at (604) 767-4822 or visit www.bcit/venture

Avcorp acquires composite manufacturer
Avcorp Industries has acquired all of the shares of Comtek Advanced Structures Ltd (Comtek), a manufacturer of advanced composite aerostructures. For the full press release, click here.

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Supply Chain Study
McGill University doctoral student Xiaowen Bao seeks AIABC members' assistance. Here's his pitch:

Sharing information along the supply chain in aerospace industry is extremely important. It is critical for survival and development of small and medium-sized enterprises to keep close and strong relationships with suppliers/customers. The level of information sharing with suppliers/customers indicates the strength of your relationship with your suppliers/customers and how firmly have you established your position in the industry. The lack of accurate and timely information flow across supply chain partners also results in inefficiency, such as inaccurate forecasts, excessive inventory, low capacity utilization, and inadequate customer service. Higher level of information sharing in supply chains brings better performance to both individual businesses and the entire industry.

This survey measures the level of information sharing by using six indicators: types of information being shared, level of detail, distance of sharing, width of sharing, frequency, and timeliness. After submitting the questionnaire, respondents will get their scores on the six indicators immediately and can compare them with the average scores of other businesses participated in the survey. Simple explanations about the meanings of the scores will also be provided. If the respondents are interested, we will also provide them with the final report of the study. This survey can be used as tool to monitor business communication activities and provide data for relevant decision-making needs. It takes about 10 minutes to complete the online questionnaire. To access the survey, please visit: click here.

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Role of modelling and simulation in MRO
Canada has documented shortfalls in recruiting, training and retaining skilled workers, notably in MRO organizations. The current workforce continues to age, while industry experts predict a boom in demand, nationally and internationally. The Society for the Advancement of Modelling and Simulation has structured a symposium around the following themes:
1. Build consensus among stakeholders regarding the looming skills deficit;
2. Inform attendees of the potential impacts of blended learning approaches, leveraging modeling and simulation;
3. Provide a forum for participants to discuss collaborative approaches to the skills challenge.
For more information on this symposium, May 14-15 in Ottawa, please contact Keith Gladstone at 613-596-1105.

AIAC Supplier Development Working Groups
The following message from Dale Hunt of AIAC offers a great way for AIABC members to leverage their associate membership in our national aerospace association:

For the past few months AIAC's Supplier Development Steering Group has been actively identifying and prioritizing key issues of concern to direct and associate members across the country. Those issues are:
1) Supply Chain Security
2) Public Sector/Major Program Procurement
3) International Business Development
4) ERP/MRP/TQM Implications, and,
5) Technology Advancement Considerations.
The first 3 issues have been ranked as the top priority subjects, (the last two will be tackled at a later date). Working Groups for each issue are now being established, with a mandate to seek and implement resolution to the various actions that will be tabled. Participation in the working groups is open to employees of both direct and associate member companies, who meet the following criteria: the individual should be directly engaged, or have experience with the subject matter being considered and be authorized to speak on behalf of and commit his company to obligations put forth during working group meetings.

If this is not you, please forward this notice to those in your company responsible for these first three issues. To confirm participation or to clarify questions, please email Dale Hunt at dale.hunt@aiac.ca
or call at 613.760.4550

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Chinese Aerospace Mission Report
Interested in the Chinese aerospace market? AIABC has a report on a recent mission to China. If you are interested, please click here and I'll send you a copy.


Got news?
Please make sure that news and announcements about your company find their way to AIABC! We will be pleased to post them in our well-read newsletter. If you need help writing a press release or announcement, AIABC can help . . .it's all part of your membership benefits. Just call Andrew at 604 538 0071. Just remember, it almost always is more effective if you let me know sooner rather than later. Confidentiality is assured!

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FEBRUARY 28, 2007
Click on a link to go directly to an article, or scroll down to see all.
Newest AIABC Member: Innovia Solutions
Boeing and Lockheed Supplier Days
A350XWB Suppliers Conference - Cancelled
Bursaries and Scholarships
Paris Airshow
Aircraft Social Service Tax
Job posting
Flight International special supplement
Business School Co-op students
Americas Aerospace Quality Group Conference
Aerospace in Poland
United Technologies Suppliers Conference
Canadian participation at AUSA show
US-Canada Regulatory Barriers
Viperfish completes test flight
Western Aerospace Alliance Conference 2007
Industry Training Authority News Part 1
Industry Training Authority News Part 2

New AIABC Member: Innovia Solutions
AIABC welcomes its newest member: Innovia Solutions. Innovia Solutions Inc. provides independent consulting services to Aerospace and Engineered product companies in the areas of market analysis, operations and supply chain management. Our value proposition encompasses strategy development through to implementation for achieving measurable results using a 'What', 'So What', 'Now What' activity process. Dominique Spragg has held senior executive roles with Pratt & Whitney, Magellan Aerospace and Avcorp Industries and has consulted to firms in Canada, the USA, Mexico as well as Eastern and Western Europe.
For more information, check out Innovia's profile in the AIABC Directory (and update your own profile while you are at it!)

Boeing and Lockheed Supplier Days
I have received word from Western Economic Diversification that the department is working with Industry Canada to schedule supplier days in Western Canada in the coming weeks with Lockheed Martin and Boeing with respect to the Tactical Airlift Aircraft and Medium/Heavy Lift Helicopter projects. No information about dates or locations is available yet but, naturally, AIABC will keep members up to date on the developments as they are confirmed.

A350XWB Suppliers Conference - cancelled
This conference , previously scheduled for March 28 in Toronto, has been cancelled. If we receive news that the conference has been rescheduled, we will post the information here.

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Bursaries and Scholarships
AIABC is compiling a resource page for aerospace-related bursaries and scholarship. If your company offers a scholarship for any maintenance, manufacturing, engineering or other aerospace-related training, please contact Andrew in the AIABC office at 604 538 0071 or click here to send an e-mail. Scholarships and bursaries must be available to BC residents or for BC training organizations.

Paris Airshow
There is still lots of opportunity to participate in the Western Canada exhibit in the Showcase Canada pavilion at the Paris airshow. For more information or to express an interest in participating, please call Andrew at the AIABC office at 604 538 0071.

Aircraft Social Service Tax
To see an update on how the Social Service Tax applies to aircraft, aircraft parts, leasing and other aerospace related activities, click here.

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Job posting
Vice-President Engineering
Rise to the challenge... International Water-Guard Industries Inc. (IWG) is the dominant supplier of flight qualified water treatment equipment to the corporate jet market, and the developer of the patented aircraft circulating potable water system. IWG is seeking an experienced aerospace professional to lead its diverse engineering, production and maintenance activities through the next stage of growth within its AS9100 certified organization.

Reporting to the CEO, the Vice President, Engineering will be a core member of the senior executive group responsible for driving the aggressive business plan of the company. This individual will coordinate development activities and implement consistent production processes across all parts of the engineering and production organization. Working with department heads for product development & project management, the VP will ensure timelines are met and deliveries achieved as required. This person will be a team builder who has a demonstrated track record of developing, and leading a world class engineering organization.

REQUIREMENTS
The VP Engineering must have a solid background in aircraft systems and structures, electronics/ avionics, certification, project management and manufacturing. A history of building good working relationships with major OEM's as well as the regulators is a must. An undergraduate degree in engineering is required, and an advanced degree in engineering or business would be ideal. The VP Engineering will have 15 years of experience in the Aerospace Industry, ideally in both large and fast growing small companies.

If this describes you, please forward your resume along with a cover letter to:

Gerald Eiers
International Water-Guard Industries Inc.
Unit One - 3771 North Fraser Way.
Burnaby, BC V5J 5G5
Fax: (604) 255-5685
Email: geiers@water.aero
www.water.aero

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Flight International special supplement
Flight International is doing a special section on Canada's aerospace industry. Covering all the key regions of Canada, with interviews with the main business leaders, industry associations and government representatives, our Canadian aerospace special will get into the workings of one of the world's biggest national industries to find out what really makes Canadian aerospace tick. To secure an advertisement for your company in this special Canadian issue of Flight International, please contact eaconsultants@sympatico.ca for further information.

Business School Co-op students
Sauder School of Business Marketing Co-op students are ready to help you with projects or additional work loads starting in May 2007 for either four-month or eight-month work terms. Students have assisted employers with market research, marketing analysis, marketing strategy, promotions, sales management, international marketing, event planning and e-marketing. To post your opportunities, simply send the job posting to co-op@sauder.ubc.ca, or Claudia Garcia at 604-827-4438.

Americas Aerospace Quality Group Conference
Avcorp Industries invites all suppliers, business partners and other organizations interested in the aerospace industry quality management strategy to attend the Americas Aerospace Quality Group (AAQG) conference in Vancouver, BC from March 06-08, 2007. The objective of the AAQG organization is to establish and maintain a dynamic cooperation based on trust between Americas aerospace companies on initiatives to make significant improvements in quality performance and reductions in cost throughout the value stream. Initial focus is to continuously improve the product realization processes used to deliver consistently high quality products, thereby reducing non - value added activities and costs. By attending the General Assembly meeting, you will:
- learn of the latest initiatives being pursued and promoted by AAQG
- be exposed to ways to reduce cost through standardization of quality policies and practices
- have the opportunity to network with key personnel from major aerospace companies who participate in the AAQG
- provide the AAQG with suppliers' point of view
- have the opportunity to engage industry leaders in the various initiatives being sponsored by the AAQG in discussions and reviews of those initiatives
Topics which will be covered in the General Assembly meeting include:
- Overview of the AAQG; its Initiatives and Strategy
- AAQG Expectations
- AAQG Other Party scheme (AS9100)
- Lessons Learned on Implementation of AAQG standards.
Go to http://www.sae.org/aaqg/for information about the conference.
WANTED: The Pacific Northwest Aerospace Association is sending a delegation of Washington State companies to the meeting. If you are interested in participating in a reception/dinner for PNAA member companies, please give me a call at 604 538 0071.

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Aerospace in Poland
Join your Ontario aerospace colleagues for this Roundtable discussion hosted by Canada's Ambassador to Poland, David Preston. The Ambassador will be joined by representatives from Canadian aerospace companies active in Poland who will share their views on market opportunities and successful practices as investors or via outsourcing. Registration deadline: March 1, 2007. To register or for more information, please visit: http://www.ontaero.org/Page.asp?PageID=1209&ContentID=966&SiteNodeID=124&BL_ExpandID

United Technologies Suppliers Conference
The United Technologies group, working in cooperation with the Consulate General of Canada in New York and Industry Canada in Ottawa is organizing a 2nd and 3rd tier annual suppliers conference on March 19 - 20, 2007 in Hartford, Connecticut. The objective of the program is to introduce to United Technologies Aerospace companies select suppliers from Canada who can offer capabilities and products that would match the requirements of the US prime contractors while contributing to meeting the groups commitment to the Canadian Industrial Regional Benefits program. You must apply to participate in this event,
which is open to up to 20 selected Canadian suppliers. If you are interested, please click here to contact the AIABC office for detailed criteria and application information, or call 604 538 0071.

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Canadian participation at AUSA show
The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT) invites Canadians firms interested in doing business with the U.S. defence and security sectors to participate in the AUSA Winter Symposium and Exposition from March 7-9 in Fort Lauderdale. This is an important military procurement event and a complete plan for Canadian participation is available by clicking here.

US-Canada Regulatory Barriers
The Conference Board of Canada is conducting a study on behalf of Industry Canada to identify the important regulatory differences between Canada and the United States. The focus of the study is to identify those regulatory differences that create obstacles to Canada-U.S. trade. The results of this survey will be used to reduce existing trade barriers with a view to enhancing productivity, competitiveness and profitability for your business. Your participation in this survey gives you an opportunity to help identify regulations that impede your export business to the United States. Your responses will help identify those industries to which the Canadian government should assign the highest priority for aligning regulations. The Online survey takes about 30 minutes to complete. Please feel free to identify the most appropriate colleague(s) or staff person(s) to complete the survey. If you feel that you are unable to complete a question, please move on to the next question and submit the survey even if it is incomplete. Please, respond before February 28, 2007. To get access to the survey, please click on the following link and you will be redirected to the questionnaire. http://host.ultimatesurvey.com/ConferenceBoard/Surveys/TakeSurvey.aspx?s=9892458918764055A6EC5F1BB801D0D1 If you have any questions, please contact Yves St-Maurice at 613) 526-3090 ext. 250.

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Viperfish completes test flight
Deep Development Corporation, a division of Gatekeeper Systems Inc. and National Research Council Canada’s Institute for Aerospace Research (NRC Aerospace) have announced the successful completion of flight testing of DDC’s Viperfish® ASX Digital Video Recorder (DVR). The Viperfish® ASX DVR was used to record a pilots movements and activity as part of Dr. Todd Macuda’s “Airborne Neural Recording Program” (ANRP) being conducted by NRC Aerospace. The Viperfish® ASX DVR was integrated into the Bell 412 Advanced Systems Research Aircraft. "The Viperfish ASX preformed flawlessly even though it operated in a harsh, vibration rich environment," said Dr Macuda. "The quality of the video we obtained was excellent." Dr. Macuda will use the video to assist in his analysis of other neurophysiological monitoring data that was also collected. The Airborne Neural Recording Program is a new NRC Aerospace capability that can be used to measure pilot brain activity during flight. It is hoped that this new capability can be used to evaluate the influence of new cockpit technologies on pilot performance and as a basic research tool. For more information, contact: Tim MacFarlane, Vice President, DDC Viperfish Group, Tel: (604) 864-9671.

Western Aerospace Alliance Conference 2007
Mark your calendars! The follow-up to the successful 2006 event in Campbell River has been announced for Oct 24-26 2007 in Saskatoon. For more information, please visit waa-sask2007.com

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Industry Training Authority News Part 1
Kevin Evans has been appointed to the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Industry Training Authority. Kevin will join the ITA's senior management team effective March 1, 2007. The COO position is new and in this position Kevin will assume responsibility for most of the operational aspects of the ITA's ongoing business as well as providing strategic input and advice on future direction and initiatives. Kevin in formerly Vice-President, Western Canada for the Retail Council of Canada, and Chief Journalist in British Columbia for CBC.

Industry Training Authority News Part 2
The Industry Training Authority has partnered with The Province newspaper to create the Top in Trades awards with two goals in mind: to celebrate excellence in the trades and encourage young people to consider these careers by sharing inspiring stories of success. We’re looking for individuals who have achieved career success, made commitments to training and safety, and given back to their communities. Twelve winners will be selected and profiled in a series of full page feature articles in The Province newspaper throughout May and June, and the ITA will donate a $500 bursary in each winner’s name to the trade program and institution of their choice.

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JANUARY 29, 2007
Click on a link to go directly to an article, or scroll down to see all.

Industry Training Organization
Discovery Channel looking for ideas
Paris Airshow
AIAC rebuts TPC criticism
AIABC protests C-17 IRB allegations
Transport Minister visits Richmond
AIABC Discount for Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance Conference - Everett
AIABC/Washington State Host Program
JSF Export Controls Seminar
Saskatchewan calling


INDUSTRY TRAINING ORGANIZATION
The Industry Training Authority has accepted AIABC's application to establish an Industry Training Organization. Now that we have the initial approval, we can proceed to with application for establishing the actual organization. That will take place over the next few months, so please watch this space for updates or call the AIABC office at 604 538 0071 for more information.


DISCOVERY CHANNEL LOOKING FOR IDEAS
The Discovery Channel has contacted AIABC looking for ideas to feature in an upcoming series of shows based in BC. They want to feature the latest and greatest ideas coming out the BC aerospace industry. It's a hands-on type show, so they will want to SEE what you are doing/building/researching etc. If you have a good idea for the show, please call the AIABC office at 604 538 0071 and I'll pass it along. Act quick, they are coming in early February!

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PARIS AIRSHOW
AIABC will have our final participation in the Paris Airshow determined within the next few days. For more information or to express an interest in participating, please call Andrew at the AIABC office at 604 538 0071.

AIAC REBUTS TPC CRITICISM
From an AIAC editorial countering criticism of the TPC program, from which many BC companies have benefited:
"Our competitors rely heavily on direct support from their respective governments through a host of policy tools and programs designed specifically to attract investment. With its contributions to R&D under the Technology Partnerships Canada (TPC) program, the government has strengthened the business case for investment and scientific innovation here at home. Meanwhile, Canadians can rest easy knowing these contributions remain transparent, accounted for, and above all, fully repayable as they have always been. They are investments that make sense not only for our competitiveness and productivity, but for the thousands of Canadians whose livelihoods depend on them, to say nothing of the thousands of young Canadians contemplating a future career in aerospace. Our competitors around the world reap the benefits of government aid for technology development at levels far above those provided here in Canada, (where we have the fourth-largest aerospace industry in the world). The European Union offers fifty per cent, non-repayable, R&D funding for aerospace innovation. The U.S. aerospace industry benefits from massive non-repayable government-funded defence R&D that companies then apply to commercial applications. The governments of Japan, China, India and many emerging economies are now investing heavily to reap the economic and quality of life benefits that flow from a technology-intense industry like aerospace."

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AIABC PROTESTS C-17 IRB ALLEGATIONS
A letter has been sent by AIABC to Industry Minister Maxime Bernier expressing the Association's dismay at the apparent political manipulation of the C-17 IRB plan, as reported last week in the Globe and Mail. AIABC has sought clarification whether the allegations made in the Globe and Mail story are true.

AIABC has also requested meetings in Edmonton with both the Deputy Minister and Minister for Western Economic Diversification.

TRANSPORT MINISTER VISITS RICHMOND
Federal Transport Minister Lawrence Cannon gives a lunchtime speech to the Richmond Chamber of Commerce on February 9. For more information, please click here: clicking here.

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PACIFIC NORTHWEST AEROSPACE ALLIANCE CONFERENCE DISCOUNT
AIABC members are being extended the PNAA members' discount for their annual conference, taking place Feb 12-13 in Everett. This is a great conference through which to build contacts in the Pacific Northwest. I strongly encourage AIABC members to participate. To get the $90 discount, you must register through the AIABC office by calling 604 538 0071. For a look at the PNAA conference web page, please go to: www.pnaa.net.


AIABC/WASHINGTON STATE HOST PROGRAM
Here is an interesting program developed by AIABC and the Canadian Consulate General, Seattle. A travel fund has been established to allow BC aerospace companies to invite an eligible business contact and your contact's travel expenses to British Columbia will be fully funded.

How does it work? Simply review the eligibility criteria posted on the AIABC website and get your application in before 7 February.

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JSF EXPORT CONTROLS SEMINAR
JSF - Export Control Seminar for Canadian Industry is organized by Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC). It is a unique opportunity for Canadian Aerospace companies to learn about the latest developments on export control issues as they relate to the Joint Strike Fighter (F-35) Program.

The representative from US Department of State will update Canadian aerospace firms on the latest issues and developments affecting U.S. Export Control policies and procedures. Get a U.S. industry perspective on best practices from JSF prime contractor Lockheed Martin and its partners BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman. Learn about licensing issues and procedures as they related to the JSF program from Judson Mason, JSF International Program Manager at JSF Program Office.
Date:February 7th, 2007
Location:Fairmont Château Laurier Hotel, Canadian Room
Time:8:30 AM - Noon
For more program details and a registration form, please click here.

Saskatchewan Calling
The Honourable Lorne Calvert, Premier of Saskatchewan, invites AIABC members to an exclusive presentation where you can learn about big opportunities in Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan has a whole lot of potential for investors. Unprecedented growth and the largest tax cuts in our history are making this the best time to invest. Learn how they're extracting oil resources with innovative technology like C02 sequestration. Find out why scientists from around the world are flocking to Canada's biggest science project, the synchrotron, in Saskatoon. And discover how Saskatchewan companies are providing you with everything from satellite radio to alternative energy.
Thursday, February 8, 2007
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
To RSVP, call the AIABC office at 604 538 0071.

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DECEMBER 22, 2006
Click on a link to go directly to an article, or scroll down to see all.

2006 in Review from AIABC
Spare parts sought for Bell 47 mock-up
Paris Airshow
Industry Training Organization application
Canada signs on for more JSF
JSF Manager Takes Off
Washington Aerospace Directory
Are you SMSed yet?
Aerospace Advantage
Transforming Space Conference
Quebec's Aeronautical Industry Strategy
Tax breaks targets trades-training students
Job vacancies at BCIT
TPC's future
IRB News
Funding available for new marketing activities
How did they get it through security?

YEAR IN REVIEW FROM AIABC
On behalf of the Board of Directors of AIABC, I would like to take a moment to wish all members a Merry Christmas and all the best in 2007. The year has been eventful and I thought it would be useful to attach a summary of some of the activities that AIABC has been involved in over the past 12 months. So, in no particular order:

* AIABC hosted the Western Aerospace Alliance Conference, western Canada's largest aerospace event
* Commenced application process to form an aerospace industry-training organization
* Completed a review and update of the five-year action plan from the 2001 BC Aerospace Workforce Strategy
* Completed the 2006 BC Aerospace Labour Market Update
* Represented the British Columbia aerospace industry at the 2006 Farnborough Airshow
* Conceived the "Introduction to Aerospace Maintenance and Manufacturing program" with the BC branch of the Air Cadet League of Canada
* Participated in the development and launch of the AeroCanada on-line capabilities database
* Briefed the caucus of the Official Opposition regarding aerospace issues in BC
* Co-hosted an Industry Day for BC companies interested in IRB opportunities with Boeing
* Hosted the annual Abbotsford Airshow networking event for Washington State companies
* Enrolled four new members
* Supported the development of the National Aerospace Human Resources Strategy
* Supported CNC machining courses at BCIT
* Participated in development of a Provincial Technology Strategy
* Hosted an Open Board Meeting for AIABC members
* Represented the Western Aerospace Alliance on the Board of Directors of the Aerospace Industry Association of Canada
* Chaired the Western Aerospace Alliance
* Represented BC at meetings with the Aerospace Futures Alliance in Washington State
* Participated in the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance conference in Seattle
* Participated in the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada annual conference
* Participated in ITARS workshop in Washington State
* Acted as industry resource for various news media
* Contributed to Business in Vancouver newspaper aerospace supplement
* Fulfilled obligations of the $500,000 Aerospace Training Initiative fund
* Provided input to Western Economic Diversification's publication "Western Canada's Aerospace Industry Advantage"
* Participated in the inaugural session of the Council of Canadian Aerospace Associations
* Hosted visit by Team Spartan, assisting in establishment of IRB relationships
* Participated in the Provincial Working Group on Industrial Regional Benefits
* Produced updated listing for BC Aerospace Capabilities Directory
* Facilitated placement of an advertisement in National Post supporting federal government's support of the National Aerospace and Defence Strategic Framework
* Co-hosted visit by EADS in support of IRB-related activities
* Participated in workshop regarding Transport Canada's Accountability Framework
* Participated in Strategic Planning session with Board of Aerospace Industries Association of Canada
* Supported communication regarding international trade missions to China, France and United States markets
* Worked with federal and provincial governments to encourage placement of new aerospace investments and facilities in the province
* Supported establishment of a secondary school apprenticeship program in Langley School District

...plus many others, including the day-to-day administration of the association and all the phone calls, e-mails and questions from members that form an important link between BC aerospace companies. It is to the credit of our membership and the support we receive that we are able to work so broadly on behalf of the BC aerospace industry.

SPARE PARTS SOUGHT FOR BELL 47 MOCK-UP
If you have any unneeded spare parts suitable for a Bell 47 mock-up that is being constructed in Washington State, donations would be gratefully accepted. The project is for the Corilation Foundation and benefits special needs adults and children. For more information, contact Gary white at heliman59@webtv.net or call him at (253) 226 3364.

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PARIS AIRSHOW
AIABC is seeking expressions of interest by BC companies to participate in the Paris Airshow. I know many members just "walk the show" but this is a cost-effective way to be a real participant; other exhibitors are more likely to take you seriously if they know you are serious enough to have a presence.
The cost of this excellent marketing opportunity is far less than going it on your own. Although the final cost will depend on the number of participants, for $7500 you will enjoy:
- A panel in an AIABC-branded booth in a good location adjacent to Showcase Canada
- Showcase Canada Lounge access
- Staff presence at the booth
- Small storage space at booth
- Two full-week air show passes per company
- Pre-show logistical support
- Design and decoration of the booth
- Invites to all Canadian government receptions and events
- Shipping and handling of promotional materials
Please call Andrew at the AIABC office at 604 538 0071.

INDUSTRY TRAINING ORGANIZATION APPLICATION
AIABC has now submitted its application to establish an Industry Training Organization (ITO) under the umbrella of the Industry Training Authority. A decision to proceed will go before the ITA board in January. What is an ITO? In a nutshell, it is an industry-led organization with a mandate from government to recommend what training programs should be funded through public institutions. The organizations already exist in six industries, including automotive, horticulture, heavy construction, residential construction, resource industries, and tourism. This is a major step forward for AIABC and will be a significant benefit to members who rely on graduates from local training institutes. AIABC has also put forward an expression of interest to bring CNC machining under the aerospace funding envelope.

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CANADA SIGNS ON FOR MORE JSF
The Department of National Defence has formalized their continued partnership with the United States Department of Defense in the JSF program. Canada is the second of eight partner nations to sign the MoU for the third phase of the JSF program - the Production, Sustainment and Follow-on Development phase. Canada's participation in the JSF program will provide a number of benefits such as unique access to technical and operational data and royalties on third party sales. While participation in this next phase does not commit the Department to purchasing the multi-role aircraft, it is helping to define and evaluate DND's future requirements for the next generation of fighter aircraft to replace the CF-18 and its capabilities. The Department of Industry also signed MoUs with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Pratt & Whitney and the GE Rolls-Royce Fighter Engine Team to provide Canada's aerospace and defence industry with access to up to $8 billion in industrial participation opportunities in the JSF Program.
For a complete account, please visit: http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/newsroom/view_news_e.asp?id=2167#tphp.

JSF MANAGER TAKES OFF
Anyone who has done anything regarding JSF will be interested in the following note from Paul Cachia, JSF Canada Deputy Project Manager: "As most of you probably know by now Canada signed the Joint Strike Fighter MOU in Washington last week. This was obviously a significant event for all of us north of the border. I have been fortunate to have been a member of the Canadian JSF team since CDP and with the MOU signature on the 11th I have decided to make a career move and accept a position with the Canadian Commercial Corporation. I will be focusing my efforts on their aerospace and defence file."

WASHINGTON AEROSPACE DIRECTORY
This of you looking south of the border for business opportunities may find the following resource useful: Washington State Aerospace Suppliers. If you have trouble downloading it, drop me a line and I'll send you a copy. The Aerospace Futures Alliance is new a Washington-state based group of companies that have shown great interest in developing relationships with BC companies and we shall be working more closely with them in 2007. Watch this space for updates!

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Are you SMSed YET?
A safety management course is being held January 19 & 20 (Friday & Saturday) 2007 in Calgary, Alberta. This would benefit individuals who will be actively involved in the organization's Safety Management System (safety program) or are responsible for the duties of a Company Aviation Safety Officer. Individuals with previous experience and those with no knowledge in aviation safety management will find this course useful for the formation or expansion of safety programs within their organizations. There will be a limit to the number of participants to ensure quality discussion. This course will qualify participants to meet the training and knowledge requirements of a CASO in accordance with Transport Registration and further information:
Brendan Kapuscinski, 403-804-9745 or training@beyondriskmgmt.com.

AEROSPACE ADVANTAGE
Western Economic Diversification has produced a generic investment package to attract companies to Western Canada. The package includes a one-pager on aerospace, featuring some companies that have chosen BC. You can view the aerospace page by clicking here, or you can request the whole package from Craig Fulton at 604 666 7012.

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TRANSFORMING SPACE CONFERENCE
California Space Authority's "Transforming Space Conference", November 29 - December 1, 2006.
Executive Summary
The California space enterprise community - industry, government and academia - continues to lead the United States as the nation transforms space in the civil, national security, and commercial sectors. This transformation is taking place in all three sectors in order to meet the nation's changing requirements to explore outer space, ensure access to space, transport space tourists, enhance launch and satellite responsiveness, and educate the future aerospace workforce.
This two-and-a-half day conference was held on November 29 through December 1 in Los Angeles, the nation's hub for space enterprise. Space professionals from throughout the nation who are integrally involved in the transformation of space enterprise are attracted to the only state in the nation that has end-to-end space capabilities. Conference attendees benefitted from the conference through knowledge of current business opportunities in all three space sectors, discussions of space policy and networking with California's space leaders. The conference is hosted by the California Space Authority (CSA) and the California Space Education and Workforce Institute (CSEWI). CSA is a non-profit organization designated by the State of California as the California Spaceport Authority. CSEWI is a charitable, non-profit organization devoted to space educational and workforce issues.
For the full conference report, please contact Jeffery Gray, Canadian Consulate General, Los Angeles at Jeffrey.Gray@international.gc.ca.

QUEBEC'S AERONAUTICAL INDUSTRY STRATEGY
Québec Premier Jean Charest, together with Minister of Economic Development, Innovation and Export Trade Raymond Bachand, recently launched Québec’s new research and innovation strategy. The Premier unveiled additional investments totalling $888 million over a three-year period. Please also refer to a summary of Quebec's Aeronautical Industry Development strategy (announced in July 2006) - objectives and concrete means that the Quebec government is proposing to support Quebec's aeronautical industry. Summary is on page 35 of the 39 page report which can be found in the following webpage. Five key initiatives are included in the provincial measures: Quebec's Aeronautical Strategy website.

TAX BREAKS TARGET TRADES-TRAINING STUDENTS
British Columbia's Finance Minister, Carole Taylor, has announced $90 million in tax breaks that the government will use to attract more people into skilled-trades training. In its 2006 budget, the province promised to spend an additional $400 million over four years for trades training, including tax breaks to people who enter skilled-trade courses. Taylor detailed the list of tax credits that will go to both employers and employees who enter recognized trades training. The incentives will apply to 47 Red Seal & 79 non-Red Seal apprenticeship programs in BC, which encompass all trades relevant to aerospace. The program will be effective 1 Jan 2007, subject to legislative approval. For more information, see the Industry Training Authority website: www.itabc.ca

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JOB VACANCIES AT BCIT
- ASSOCIATE DEAN
Reporting to the Dean, School of Transportation, the Associate Dean is responsible for providing educational and administrative leadership to the aerospace programs and courses, in accordance with BCIT and Transport Canada Regulatory Standards. The successful candidate will have a minimum of six years of aviation maintenance experience, progressive supervisory/management experience, will hold a Provincial qualification as an instructor, and will possess an AME license or will have an equivalent combination of qualifications and experience.
- BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Reporting to the Associate Dean, Aerospace Programs, the Business Development Manager will work closely with faculty and staff in the maintenance and development of partnerships within the Aerospace Industry, provincially, nationally and internationally and the BCIT Aerospace Programs. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor or Master’s Degree in Business Administration, progressive experience in a management or a senior supervisory position in the aerospace and aviation industry or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Should you want to learn more about either of these unique leadership opportunities, call Kelly Baron at (604) 913-7768 or forward your CV, a letter of introduction and the names of three referees in confidence to Provence Consulting Inc. at search@provenceconsulting.com

TPC's FUTURE
With the Technology Partnerships Canada program (TPC) set to expire on December 31st, the government has announced several new TPC contributions over the past several weeks. Meanwhile, the creation of a successor program to TPC is moving through the cabinet approval process. The new program has apparently been approved in principle, but hurdles remain before a formal announcement can be made. Budget allocation, along with certain program design and delivery details has yet to be determined. Treasury Board approval is required for this. The new program will focus exclusively on the aerospace and defence sectors. The program’s mandate will be to enhance Canadian aerospace competitiveness, stimulate and facilitate R&D, and generate broad benefits to Canada through the development and diffusion of new technologies, the establishment of new R&D partnerships, and by strengthening Canadian productivity. The new program will place significant emphasis on technology advancement and excellence, and broad diffusion of new technology into the supply chain and with R&D partners such as universities. It will operate much like the current TPC program with a maximum sharing ratio of 50 per cent and a very similar eligible cost base. Contributions will be repayable, linked to gross business revenue. The exact modalities of this GBR approach have not yet been determined. TPC has initiated a consultation process with AIAC and member firms on repayment, as well as on the issue of exploitation of intellectual property developed with program support, and case assessment, including assessment criteria and processes. No date has been set for program start-up, although officials report a desire to minimize the time gap between the termination of TPC and start-up of the new program. – Submitted by Aerospace Industries Association of Canada

IRB NEWS
The federal government is proceeding with the acquisition of four C-17 (Boeing), 17 C-130J (Lockheed Martin) aircraft, and 16 CH-47 helicopters (Boeing) with a value of $13 billion. In an October 13 letter to Industry Canada, AIAC called on the government to:
- Articulate clear industrial development outcomes to be sought e.g. technology transfer, participation by firms of all sizes and across all regions and business segments (commercial, space, defence);
- Ensure 100 per cent of Canadian industrial benefits (CIBs) be directed by OEM primes to the aerospace sector;
- Guarantee 100 per cent of in-service support (ISS) with the exception of sparing, be performed in Canada by the existing ISS industry;
- Create a federal government/industry forum to assist the OEM primes with the delivery of high quality, lasting CIBs.

The Aerospace Industry Association of BC has sought the cooperation of the the Province of BC to establish an IRB working group to monitor these procurements to ensure BC companies are included in the process.

FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR NEW MARKETING ACTIVITIES
AIABC is able to make applications on behalf of its members for funding to support initiatives that open new markets for members. These funds can be used for "testing the waters" in new markets through activities such as trade shows, trade missions or other innovative means of bringin your products and capabilities before potential new customers. Up to 50% of eligible costs are covered by these non-repayable grants. With this additional funding you can reduce your costs, or increase the scope of your activities…find out more by contacting the AIABC office at 604 538 0071. The window for the current funding round closes in January, so don't delay!

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HOW DID THEY GET IT THROUGH SECURITY?
A crew of mechanics at Istanbul's airport were so glad to be rid of some trouble-prone British-made airplanes that they sacrificed a camel on the tarmac in celebration — prompting the firing earlier this month of their supervisor. The photo of a worker raising a large piece of bloodied camel meat on the tarmac of Ataturk International Airport was published on the front page of at least two newspapers, drawing the wrath of transportation authorities. The sacrifice of a camel with small Turkish carpets over its humps at the busy airport was regarded as a disgrace and an embarrassment for the country at a time when it is seeking to join the European Union. "This is a grave incident. Is it compatible with the image of a modern Turkey, trying to enter the EU?" said opposition lawmaker Huseyin Guler. Turkish Airlines authorities launched an investigation and later fired chief mechanic Sukru Can for approving the camel sacrifice. The crew of mechanics had been celebrating the return of the last of 11 four-engine Avro RJ 100 jets that were leased from Britain 13 years ago. Turks traditionally sacrifice animals as an offering to God for when their wishes come true. "We are happy to be rid of planes which frequently broke down without causing major headaches to Turkish Airlines," the daily Cumhuriyet quoted Mr. Can as saying after the ceremony.

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DECEMBER 4, 2006
Click on a link to go directly to an article, or scroll down to see all.

New BCIT Aerospace Campus Tour
AIAC Guide
Paris Airshow
Boeing Says Thank-You
Practicum Students Available
New Personnel At Cascade Aerospace
Volunteer Position On Civil Aviation Committee
A350 Market Intelligence Report
Canada Pavilion At 23rd National Space Symposium
Aviation Alberta
UK Aerospace Opportunities
U.S. Defense And Security Sectors – Advocacy And Trade Development
Aerospace Opportunities In Utah
Office Of Small And Medium Sized Enterprises

NEW BCIT AEROSPACE CAMPUS TOUR
There are a limited number of spots available for a tour of the new BCIT Aerospace Campus at YVR. It's a multi-million dollar investment in the future of aerospace training in BC and AIABC members are getting the chance to see it first. The tour is booked for 10:30 am on Friday Dec 8 (subject to change). If you wish to participate, please click here and let me know. First come, first served! I'll let you know where to meet when you register.

AIAC GUIDE
If you have not already done so, this is your absolute last chance to get your profile included in the annual AIAC Guide. This publication gets global circulation and is a great place to profile the capabilities of your company. To see a sample of what a profile looks like, please click here. The cost of a profile is $300, and well worth the exposure it provides. Call Andrew at the AIABC office for more info: 604 538 0071.

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PARIS AIRSHOW
AIABC is seeking expressions of interest by BC companies to participate in the Paris Airshow. I know many members just "walk the show" but this is a cost-effective way to be a real participant; other exhibitors are more likely to take you seriously if they know you are serious enough to have a presence.
The cost of this excellent marketing opportunity is far less than going it on your own. Although the final cost will depend on the number of participants, for $7500 you will enjoy:
- A panel in an AIABC-branded booth in a good location adjacent to Showcase Canada
- Showcase Canada Lounge access
- Staff presence at the booth
- Small storage space at booth
- Two full-week air show passes per company
- Pre-show logistical support
- Design and decoration of the booth
- Invites to all Canadian government receptions and events
- Shipping and handling of promotional materials
PLEASE NOTE: I need to hear from you by Friday December 8. Please call Andrew at the AIABC office at 604 538 0071.

BOEING SAYS THANK-YOU
Subsequent to the Boeing IRB event in Calgary in October, I have been asked to pass along the following letter on behalf of Roger Schallom, Industrial Participation – Country Manager with Boeing in St Louis. Please click here to read the letter. By the way, a few members have asked for a list of contacts from the Boeing partners that were at the event. I have been informed by Boeing that "our approach is to contact the companies, instead of them contacting us. An official letter to each company we have seen will be sent shortly. . ."

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PRACTICUM STUDENTS AVAILABLE
UBC Continuing Studies is actively seeking sponsor organizations to provide work opportunities for undergraduate students to gain real world experience in their areas of expertise. Over a four-week internship period, the sponsor has an opportunity to utilize student assistance from project work to day-to-day operation. The practicum period for the current program will take place from January 29th to February 22nd, 2007. It is an unpaid practicum, it is intended to expose students to workplace expectations and demands in their chosen fields of study. These students come from well-recognized South Korean universities, and they are undergraduates from a variety of fields including Business Administration, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Journalism & Advertising, and Social Work. Many of them also had previous work experiences in their study-related areas. An agreement package is available to interested organizations and all prospective sponsors. If this practicum is of interest to your organization, please contact Patrick Liu Tel: 604-822-1925.

NEW PERSONNEL AT CASCADE AEROSPACE
Dwayne Lucas has joined Cascade Aerospace as Vice President and General Manager, Products and Engineering. Brigadier General Lucas’ arrival at Cascade follows a distinguished 36 year career with the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND) where, after a number of field operations positions, he served as Deputy Chief of Staff Support and Fighter Force Redesign Leader, Air Force Staff - Director of Materiel Program Development, Director of Aerospace Equipment Management (Fighters and Trainers), Chief of Staff Support for 1 Canadian Air Division, and as Director General of Aerospace Equipment Program Management until retirement in 2005. Mr. Lucas led a variety of strategic initiatives and development programs at DND, including the redesign of the Canadian Fighter Force structure, development of an accountability, responsibility and authority framework for the strategic air staff, and Air Force infrastructure renewal. As Chief Engineer for the Air Force and Technical Airworthiness Authority for DND, Mr. Lucas oversaw all military aircraft fleets including all ground-based systems, and implemented the new Optimized Weapon System Management (OWSM) support program. The program increased the operational output of Canada’s Air Force and reduced its operating costs, and is now emulated by the Canadian Army and Navy. He was also a key leader in Air Force personnel development, led all aerospace engineers and introduced a new mentoring system to the Air Force. Mr. Lucas has a Masters of Science degree in Aerospace Design and a Bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering.

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VOLUNTEER POSITION ON CIVIL AVIATION COMMITTEE
AIABC is looking for a volunteer to participate on AIAC's Civil Aviation committee. If you are not a direct AIAC member, you may participate as the designate of AIABC's official representative, subject to approval of the AIABC board. The Civil Aviation Committee is the authoritative body for the development and implementation of AIAC advocacy positions and technical policies related to the design, development, production and in service support of Canadian civil aeronautical products and services. Domestic and international aviation safety, security and environmental regulatory environments are key focal points of this work. The CAC and its constituent Advisory Groups/Panels is the primary AIAC interface with Transport Canada, Civil Aviation (TCCA) and its international counterparts (FAA, EASA, ICAO), national and international standards setting organizations, and works closely with the AIAC’s international counterparts (AIA, GAMA, ASD, ICCAIA) in the development of global consensus on regulatory issues and standards. In coordination with other AIAC Committees the CAC interacts with Standards Associations and Government agencies that may affect civil aviation. The CAC oversees an Advisory Group on Technical Policies, an Environmental Affairs Panel, a Standards & Specification Panel, a Human Resources Panel, and ad hoc working groups/task forces as required.
For more information, please contact committee chair Bob Mather at (613) 760 4561.

A350 MARKET INTELLIGENCE REPORT
With ATW reporting that 50% of the A350 will be outsourced, this compendium of information compiled by Martine Moreau at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade is a good starting point for those seeking to get aboard the program. We've been asked to restrict circulation to Canadian companies only, so if you want a copy, please click here. Please have your passport ready for inspection.

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CANADA PAVILION AT 23rd NATIONAL SPACE SYMPOSIUM
The Consulate General in Denver is organizing a Canadian Pavilion for the National Space Symposium, that will be held April 9-12 2007 in Colorado Springs.
The National Space Symposium is the premier U.S. policy and program forum, a "must attend" opportunity for information and interaction on all sectors of space — civil, commercial, and national security. The conference will be held April 9 - 12, 2007 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. More than 7,000 attendees from around the world are expected to participate in the 23rd National Space Symposium. As usual panelists and speakers represent the who's who of the US space sector. In addition there is a large exhibition with all the large and small space firms exhibiting plus numerous DoD entities. Please contact Philippe Taillon at the Canadian Consulate Denver (303) 626-0640 for more information.

AVIATION ALBERTA
Best regards to Don Matthews, President and CEO of Aviation Alberta, who has moved on to become General Manager of the Canadian Centre for Unmanned Vehicle Systems, which will be based in Medicine Hat.

UK AEROSPACE OPPORTUNITIES
How would you like someone else to pick up the expenses for a UK trip to source new suppliers? Interested parties should click here.

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U.S. DEFENSE AND SECURITY SECTORS – ADVOCACY AND TRADE DEVELOPMENT
The Enhanced Representation Initiative (ERI) of Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) has launched two new initiatives in October 2006 to increase awareness among American defense and security stakeholders of Canada’s commitment to do its share in the war against terror, and to provide information on Canada’s industrial supply capability to meet the needs of its American allies. All projects will be themed under the heading “Canada: Partners in Defense and Security”. To support the outreach efforts and provide some performance measurement indicators, a web page with links to various stakeholders will be placed within the web site www.CanadianAlly.com – this web page and address will be featured in all communications tools. The lead stakeholders are the Canadian Embassy, DFAIT – NCT (Ottawa + Montreal regional office), all DFAIT aerospace and defense trade commissioners throughout the United States, Industry Canada, Department of National Defence, Canadian Commercial Corporation, and the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI). To read more about this initiative and some of the opportunities available, Interested parties should click here.

AEROSPACE OPPORTUNITIES IN UTAH
Vice Counsel and Senior Trade Commissioner Phillipe Taillon recently participated in an Industry Procurement Symposium and related Outcall meetings in Utah. His report on both activities outlines contacts, opportunities and background on several companies/govt agencies, which are attached for your perusal. Click here to download his report. If you are interested in further activities in this region, please contact Dale Hunt, VP Supplier Development at AIAC: (613) 760 4550.

OFFICE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED ENTERPRISES
The Government of Canada is committed to giving SMEs access to compete for government business. The Office of Small and Medium Enterprises (OSME) supports SMEs by working to reduce barriers and by simplifying requirements for SMEs that want to do business with the Government of Canada. For more information on this initiative, please click here.

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NOV 16, 2006

Paris Air Show
It may only be November, but we are already under a lot of pressure to make commitments for the 2007 Paris Air Show (June 18-24, 2007). We are once again examining options for members to participate under an AIABC banner.

By participating collectively, AIABC members will be able to enjoy the following benefits at little or no extra cost:

- AIABC-branded booth, sub-branded with your company logo
- Showcase Canada Lounge access
- Staff presence at the booth
- Small storage space at booth
- Two full-week air show passes per company
- Pre-show logistical support
- Design and decoration of the booth
- Invites to all Canadian government receptions and events
- Shipping and handling of promotional materials

The cost of this package is $7500 per company. No travel costs are included. Costs may reduce depending on the number of companies participating.

Compared to the cost of participating independently, this is a very competitive price; a single panel display costs a minimum of $5000 in the Showcase Canada pavilion and a 10 x 10 booth is $15,000. All of the logistics, design and staffing support that AIABC will handle would be additional costs.

If you are interested in participating, I would like to hear initial expressions of interest before Nov 30 and final commitments will be required shortly thereafter.

AIAC Guide
Once again, the annual AIAC guide is open for advertising. This is a great promotional tool because it is one of the few Canadian aerospace guides that actually gets well circulated. As just one example, many trade commissioners at Canadian consulates and embassies around the world use it when promoting Canadian aerospace. All AIABC members will be listed on the AIABC page.