Three-Day Event Showcases Aerospace Thought Leadership And Innovation

The Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) announced today that it will host its 4th Annual Industry Forum Nov. 12-14 at the Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Center. The program, built around the theme "Global Business Opportunities for the Future," presents a unique opportunity for attendees to meet national leaders in the commercial aviation, defense and aerospace arena. 

"Ohio suppliers are the largest and most important cluster of companies in the aerospace industry today," said Dr. Michael Heil, president and CEO, OAI. "Ohio companies supply organizations, such as Boeing and Airbus, with more resources than any other state in the country. In fact, Ohio-based companies contribute more than $14 billion in products and services for Boeing and Airbus each year and that number continues to grow. This forum furthers Ohio's position as an aerospace leader."

"This forum provides attendees with the opportunity to hear from industry experts and learn more about aerospace growth in Ohio," said Donald Majcher, vice president, technology & innovation partnerships, OAI.

Attendees will hear from the following speakers during the three-day event:

• Chandra Brown, deputy assistant secretary for manufacturing, U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration. Brown will deliver a keynote address on Nov. 14 th at 8:30 a.m.
• Joe Anselmo, editor-in-chief, Aviation Week & Space Technology Magazine
• Jim Free, director, NASA Glenn Research Center
• Eric Marquis, Quebec government representative, Chicago Office
• Chris Marrone, vice president of security and acquisition policy, Aerospace Industries Association
• Michel Merluzeau, principal, G2 Consulting, and regular Bloomberg and Wall Street Journal commentator
• Kevin Sachs, principal, McKinsey & Company
• Christine Tovee, chief technology officer, EADS North America
• Representatives from Boeing

The Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) is a non-profit organization that enhances the state's aerospace competitiveness by supporting its partners through research and technology development, workforce preparedness and engagement with global networks for innovation and advocacy.

FMI: www.oai.org