Vanguard Magazine

38 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2022 www.vanguardcanada.com THE LAST WORD Strategy towards economic and environ- mental goals. These strategies and partner- ships have led to the industry-led Decar- bonisation Roadmap. Canada could do the same and seize a generational opportunity to centre a much-needed national aero- space strategy and defence industrial strat- egy to ensure continued Canadian leader- ship over the next 30 years. Additionally, aerospace's role in national security, defence trading relationships, the broad societal impacts, and applications of its innovations, as well as the exceptionally long product and investment timelines, set it apart and require a close partnership with government. We are committed to work with govern- ment to find efficient ways of reducing de- lays in the defence procurement process. The geopolitical environment is changing rapidly and requires fast-paced govern- ment action. Large procurement projects affecting aerospace will be launched in the upcoming years and we need to make sure that an efficient and timely procurement process is in place. SUSTAINABILITY & FUTURE FACING INNOVATION On sustainability, reaching net-zero and transitioning to green innovation is an imperative for industries across the globe, including Canada's aerospace sector which spans civil aviation, defence and space. In fact, looking out over the next 20 to 30 years, there are huge opportunities for Canadian aerospace to lead on the global stage - defence sector included - especially if we have a renewed partnership with gov- ernment to ensure the right policies and programs are in place. Getting these things right will increase GDP contributions and export capacity. Canadian Aerospace has always been syn- onymous with discovery and invention. Many of the technologies we rely on to- day, including cellular technology and so- lar cells, are the direct result of aerospace discovery, multi-sectoral collaboration, and dedicated support. A national strategy will ensure this future facing innovation continues. Our industry is at the forefront of find- ing solutions to climate challenges and we want to work together with the gov- ernment to achieve them. The recently announced NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence to be lo- cated in Montréal provides a tremendous opportunity for industry to work in col- laboration with Global Affairs Canada and the Department of National Defence as an active partner. There is a global innovation race under- way in aerospace sustainability. Canada's competitor countries are moving quickly to ensure their aerospace industries seize the cleantech opportunities which also drive economic opportunities. Canada must not cede this ground. Canadian aerospace has always been a bold, future-facing industry with world- leading inventions. We have a decades- long history of excellence and achievement. Canada is one of the few places where an aircraft can be designed, built, and certified – we have the talent and ability to see the process through from start to finish. STATE OF THE INDUSTRY According to our most recent State of Canada's Aerospace Industry report, produced in conjunction with Innova- tion, Science and Economic Develop- ment Canada, the sector generates $24B in GDP and close to 200,000 jobs to the Canadian economy. R&D investments topped $710 million in 2021, the high- est among all Canadian manufacturing industries. Canada ranks first in the world for the production of civilian flight simulators, second for the production of business and regional aircraft, and first for the produc- tion of turboprop and helicopter engines. With a highly skilled workforce that is the envy of the world, a robust export ca- pacity and a global reputation for cutting- edge innovation and technology, Canadi- an aerospace is well positioned to lead in the new green revolution. As the transition to greener technolo- gies accelerates in the coming years, even more could be accomplished through a concerted partnership with government. The opportunities are endless. We must ensure we are positioned to seize them. Mike Mueller, President and CEO, Aerospace Industries Association of Canada NATO's Secretary General welcomed Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada to NATO's Summit in Brussels, June 2021. He thanked Canada's generous offer to host a NATO Centre of Excellence on Climate and Security. Photo: NATO The recently announced NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence to be located in Montréal provides a tremendous opportunity for industry to work in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada and the Department of National Defence as an active partner.

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