ENGtechnica

Category: Aerospace

  • Coltala Holdings Launches Coltala Aerospace with APG Acquisition

    Coltala Holdings Launches Coltala Aerospace with APG Acquisition

    DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX, Feb 18, 2025 – Coltala Holdings has announced the creation of Coltala Aerospace, a transformative platform dedicated to advancing America’s aerospace and defense industries. With the acquisition of Aeroparts Group (APG), that achieved growth last year of over 60%, Coltala displays its commitment to supporting businesses that are essential to America. This helps ensure safe air travel and strengthens national defense.

    Through its acquisition of APG, Coltala Aerospace now comprises three industry-leading businesses: Evans Composites, APM and ACD Consulting. The companies serve both commercial and military aerospace sectors, providing precision machining, Part 145 MRO repair station services and engineering expertise that align with Coltala’s mission to strengthen infrastructure through essential service companies.

    A Unique Partnership with Extraordinary Leaders

    Coltala Aerospace is managed by Dale Gabel, the CEO of APG, and Ricky Armstrong, the Founder and COO. Their leadership has resulted in significant growth. Coltala collaborated closely with the APG management team for four months before finalizing the acquisition. The effort helped build a robust partnership and ensure both teams were aligned. Their proactive approach prepared APG for regular growth and a smooth transition, allowing it to continue serving key commercial airlines and military platforms worldwide.

    “In an era where national security and supply chain reliability are more critical than ever, Coltala Aerospace is well positioned to meet these challenges and turn them into opportunity,” said Edward Crawford, Navy and Afghan Veteran, co-founder and co-CEO of Coltala Holdings. “We are building a platform with great leaders like Dale and Ricky that support the aerospace and defense industries while creating opportunities for veterans and strengthening America’s position in the global market.”

    Ralph Manning, co-founder and co-CEO of Coltala Holdings, noted, “We partnered with APG because of Dale and Ricky’s exceptional leadership and their team’s dedication to operational excellence and innovation. Their relentless focus drove impressive year over year growth of over 60% last year. Coltala’s enterprise system will unlock even greater potential.”

    Strategic Vision for Aerospace Growth in DFW

    Coltala recognizes the Dallas-Fort Worth area as a vital hub for aerospace and defense. By investing in Coltala Aerospace, the company fosters regional innovation and growth, reinforcing DFW’s legacy as a cornerstone of the American aerospace and defense industry.

    Modelled after successful platforms like Heico in Florida, APG unites industry-leading companies under a shared vision to advance aerospace and defense. With decades of experience and strong relationships with defense contractors, commercial aerospace leaders, and military stakeholders, Coltala and APG are well-positioned to make a lasting impact.

    Dale Gabel, CEO of Coltala Aerospace, shared, “Coltala’s partnership brings fresh energy and resources to our team. Their values align perfectly with ours, and together, we will deliver exceptional results to our commercial and defense customers.”

    Ricky Armstrong, Founder and COO of Coltala Aerospace, added, “This partnership represents a new chapter for APG. Coltala’s collaborative approach has already proven its value, and we’re excited to contribute to an industry vital to America’s future.”

    Coltala partnered with Thornburg Bow River Advisors, including managing director and head of private credit Aaron Arnett and vice president Daniel Parks, who bring incredible resources and flexible capital solutions. “Dale, Ricky and the APG team have laid the groundwork for an extraordinary platform, providing meaningful contributions to the aerospace and defense industries. We are excited to support their next growth phase alongside Coltala,” Aaron added. Coltala also partnered with Dustin Gibson and Hayden Greenbauer of Sunflower Bank, who supported financing the transaction.

    The acquisition marks a significant step in Coltala’s mission to build enduring businesses that change industries. Coltala Aerospace is supporting America’s aerospace and defense sectors, and a future is being shaped where innovation and purpose drive success for the nation.

    Source: Coltola Holdings

    About Coltala Holdings

    Founded in 2017, Coltala Holdings is a private equity firm headquartered in Fort Worth, TX, with an additional office in Dallas. The firm specializes in acquiring majority ownership in stable U.S. businesses across healthcare, manufacturing, and business services. Coltala Holdings is committed to partnering with founder- and family-owned companies, particularly in Texas, focusing on essential services, including real estate, aerospace, and home health. The firm’s portfolio includes companies like Choice Health at Home, Paschal and Pond, and Robinson & Associates, reflecting its diverse investment interests. Coltala has deployed over $300 million in flexible capital into mission-driven companies to accelerate growth and enhance operational performance.

    About Coltola Aerospace

    Coltala Holdings, a private equity firm founded in 2017 and headquartered in Fort Worth, TX, has launched Coltala Aerospace, a new platform dedicated to advancing the U.S. aerospace and defense industries. The initiative follows the acquisition of Aerospace Products Group (APG), a company that provides essential components and services to the aerospace sector. Coltala Holdings focuses on acquiring founder- and family-owned businesses in Texas, emphasizing essential services in real estate, aerospace, and home health sectors.

  • Cummings Aerospace Partners with ATRX to Develop Hypersonic Drone

    Cummings Aerospace Partners with ATRX to Develop Hypersonic Drone

    Cummings Aerospace CEO Sheila Cummings shakes hands with ATRX CEO Felix Bustos III after signing an agreement to develop high-speed unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Image: Cummings Aerospace

    HUNTSVILLE, AL, Feb 12, 2025 – Cummings Aerospace and ATRX signed an agreement to collaborate on the development of high-speed unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). The companies will integrate a high-speed turbo-rocket onto a proven airframe to develop affordable UAS that can fly at supersonic and hypersonic speeds.

    Why it Matters

    • Supersonic and hypersonic UAS will give the U.S. military and its allies unprecedented capability against America’s near-peer adversary.
    • Affordable UAS capabilities give the U.S. and its allies the opportunity to boost stockpiles of hypersonic drones.
    • The technology paves the way for a spaceplane, which can take off and land from any runway in the world.

    The Technology Powering the Partnership

    Hellhound is a family of unmanned aircraft systems with multiple specialized variants. Image: Cummings Aerospace

    Each company will bring cutting-edge technologies to the partnership:

    Cummings Aerospace’s Hellhound UAS: An unmanned aircraft with multiple specialized variants. For this partnership, Cummings Aerospace will develop a new version designed to accommodate a hypersonic-capable engine.

    Key features include:

    • Affordability, thanks to its 3D-printed modular design and commercial off-the-shelf hardware
    • Rapid payload swaps in fewer than five minutes, with no tools required

    ATRX’s Air Turbo Rocket (ATR):

    Satellite deployment from Future ATRX Space Plane. Image: Cummings Aerospace
    • A high-speed, air-breathing propulsion system
    • Capable of flying at hypersonic speeds, 5 times the speed of sound
    • Completed multiple prototype tests

    “The modern battlefield demands systems that are capable of flying faster and further into contested airspace,” said Sheila Cummings, CEO of Cummings Aerospace. “This partnership with ATRX will allow us to develop ATR-powered UAS that can offer both of these characteristics in a single vehicle, at an affordable price.”

    ATRX Air turbo rocket prototype hot fire test. Image: Cummings Aerospace

    “Cummings Aerospace is the perfect partner, considering the impressive work they’ve already done for the U.S. DOD. We’re excited about this partnership because it will significantly simplify flight testing of our ATR engines,” said ATRX CEO Felix Bustos III. “Being able to validate the performance of our ATRs using a bespoke UAS based on a flight-proven airframe will de-risk and accelerate our spaceplane development efforts. Spaceplanes are very much needed with more than 50,000, mostly commercial, satellites that need to be launched into orbit in the next few years.”

    “Huntsville has a talented and capable space-focused workforce, and we plan to draw on their abilities to help this city become the hypersonic and spaceplane manufacturing capital of the world,” Bustos said.

    What’s Next

    The companies plan to integrate the ATR engine into a Hellhound variant designed for high-speed flights and begin subsonic and supersonic flight testing.

    Source: Cummings Aerospace

    About Cummings Aerospace

    Founded in 2009 by Sheila Cummings, Cummings Aerospace is a Native American woman-owned small business headquartered in Huntsville, AL, with additional facilities in FL and AZ. The company specializes in model-based systems engineering, modeling and simulation, digital engineering, and software development, serving the defense and aerospace sectors. Their core capabilities include open systems architecture, mechanical and electrical design, advanced manufacturing, and Quality, Safety & Mission Assurance (QSMA). Cummings Aerospace holds an AS9100 Rev D certification, underscoring its quality and technical excellence commitment. The company employs over 90 individuals across its various locations.

    About ATRX

    ATRX, Inc., established in 2025, is an aerospace company headquartered in the United States, focusing on developing reusable space planes designed for runway operations. Their approach aims to revolutionize space access by enabling aircraft-like operations, reducing costs and increasing launch frequency. The company plans to achieve this through a two-phase strategy: initially developing supersonic and hypersonic Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) to generate near-term revenue, then leveraging these technologies to build space planes capable of reaching various Earth orbits and beyond. A key component of their propulsion system is the proprietary Air Turbo Rocket, for which ATRX has already developed and demonstrated a prototype. ATRX is strategically positioned to impact the trillion-dollar space launch market, support national security objectives, and foster new space-based businesses and applications.

  • Cyient DLM Signs Production Contract with Boeing

    Cyient DLM Signs Production Contract with Boeing

    HYDERABAD, India, Feb 12, 2025 – Cyient DLM has signed a production contract with Boeing Global Services (BGS) for precision-machined parts and assemblies, marking a key milestone in their partnership.

    This precision machining project award to Cyient DLM by BGS highlights Cyient DLM’s growing capabilities in delivering high-precision components to the aerospace sector.

    Anthony Montalbano, CEO, Cyient DLM, said, “This contract with Boeing is a significant achievement for Cyient DLM, showcasing our advanced manufacturing capabilities and unwavering commitment to excellence. We are honoured to collaborate with Boeing, a global leader in aerospace, and we look forward to strengthening this relationship by consistently delivering products that meet the highest industry standards.”

    Cyient DLM’s achievement underscores its position as a trusted partner in the Aerospace and Defense sector. The company is among the first AS9100C aerospace-certified electronic manufacturing facilities and the first in India to obtain the National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) certification for Circuit Card Assembly (CCA).

    Source: Cyient DLM

    About Cyient DLM

    Cyient DLM, established in 1993, is an Indian company specializing in integrated electronic manufacturing services (EMS) and solutions across the entire product lifecycle. Headquartered in Hyderabad, India, it serves industries such as aerospace and defense, healthcare and life sciences, and industrial sectors. The company offers capabilities in integrated manufacturing, electronics manufacturing, mechanical manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and value-added services. As of the fiscal year 2024, Cyient DLM reported a 93% year-over-year growth in profit after tax (PAT). As of March 31, 2024, Cyient DLM employed 722 individuals. The company has expanded its client base through strategic acquisitions, adding Fortune 500 companies to its portfolio. Cyient DLM has over 900 associates and access to more than 7,000 design associates through its parent company, Cyient.

  • KYOCERA AVX Launches SpiCAT SpiSCAP for Supercapacitors

    KYOCERA AVX Launches SpiCAT SpiSCAP for Supercapacitors

    FOUNTAIN INN, SC, Feb 10, 2025 – KYOCERA AVX has released a new version of its SpiCAT online simulation software dedicated to supercapacitors.

    SpiCAT online simulation software makes it easy for engineers to identify the unique characteristics of a wide variety of KYOCERA AVX components, including multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs), polymer, tantalum, and niobium capacitors, multilayer varistors (MLVs), negative-temperature-coefficient (NTC) thermistors, and – now –  supercapacitors.

    Supercapacitors are electrochemical double layer capacitors that strike a beneficial balance between the capabilities of electronic or dielectric capacitors (such as ceramic, tantalum, film, and aluminium electrolytic capacitors) and batteries – namely excellent pulse power handling characteristics resulting from the combination of high capacitance and low ESR. These large-energy-storage devices can function on their own or be used alongside primary or secondary batteries. They help to increase backup time, enhance battery lifespan, and deliver quick power bursts. Their applications include power backup, energy hold-up, energy harvesting, peak power support, pulse power and battery applications in various sectors such as industrial, energy, telecommunications, automotive, transportation, and medical industries.

    The new SpiCAT SpiSCAP online simulation software for KYOCERA AVX supercapacitors makes it easy for engineers to evaluate and select SCC and SCM Series supercapacitors optimized for their applications’ discharge requirements. Based on criteria including:

    • Initial and end-of-life capacitance values, the latter of which is defined as exhibiting 70% of rated capacitance and 200% ESR
    • Initial and final voltage
    • Constant current, constant power, or constant resistance modes
    • Power (W)
    • Duration time

    Users can identify recommended supercapacitor solutions ranging from single cells and modules to series and parallel combinations of parts and enjoy one-click access to detailed information about the proposed solutions, including physical and electrical characteristics, input values, part number explanations, and even interactive voltage and current vs. time graphs.

    KYOCERA AVX supercapacitors, including SCC and SCM Series supercapacitors and supercapacitor modules, provide engineers with a number of practical advantages, such as:

    • Capacitance values extending from 0.47F to 3,000F, depending on the series
    • High pulse power and large energy storage capabilities
    • Low ESR and low leakage current ratings
    • Reliable performance and long lifetimes when designed-in
    • Support for series and parallel configurations capable of achieving custom working voltage and capacitance ratings
    • Faster charge/discharge cycles, better performance over a wider range of rated operating temperatures (-40°C to +65°C at rated voltage or +85°C with appropriate derating), and superior cycle life compared to batteries
    • The ability to extend primary and secondary battery lifetimes by a minimum of 2x on average
    • The option of bent leads, custom wiring, connectors, and solder/weld terminals
    • Rugged designs, including high-reliability, moisture-resistant models and automotive-grade options qualified to AEC-Q200
    • Competitive pricing
    • Favorable lead-times
    • Manufacturing ownership and supply chain confidence
    • Highly experienced engineering and technical support services

    These unique characteristics also enable broad application suitability. KYOCERA AVX supercapacitors are ideal for emergency memory and power backup, battery supplement, peak power assist, and pulse power applications in

    • Automation, robotics, and smart metering equipment
    • Engine and motor starters
    • Uninterruptible power supplies
    • Wind turbines
    • Mobile communications (GSM), radio (GPRS), telemetry, wireless alarm, emergency lighting, and hybrid systems
    • Handheld controllers and scanners
    • Electronic locks
    • Wearables

    “Supercapacitors, like our SCC and SCM Series, provide a number of unique advantages over both electric and dielectric capacitors and batteries and help engineers in the industrial, energy, automotive, transportation, telecommunications, commercial building, and consumer electronics markets overcome common power challenges. So, we’re very excited to release the new SpiCAT SpiSCAP online simulation software to help them evaluate and select supercapacitor solutions optimized for their unique application demands,” said Jiri Machanicek, product manager, KYOCERA AVX Components – Europe.

    About KYOCERA AVX

    KYOCERA AVX, established in 1972, is a global manufacturer and supplier of electronic components, including capacitors, inductors, resistors, filters, sensors, controls, connectors, and antennas. Serving industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical, consumer electronics, industrial, and military, the company is dedicated to accelerating technological innovation and building a better future. Headquarters in Fountain Inn, SC, KYOCERA AVX operates research, development, and manufacturing facilities across more than 15 countries. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Kyocera Corporation, the company benefits from shared resources and technical expertise. In the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024, Kyocera Corporation reported consolidated sales revenue of approximately $13.3 billion.

    Source: KYOCERA AVX

  • Teledyne Completes Acquisition of Excelitas Aerospace, Defense Business

    Teledyne Completes Acquisition of Excelitas Aerospace, Defense Business

    THOUSAND OAKS, CA, Feb 5, 2025 – Teledyne Technologies Inc. announced the successful completion of the acquisition of select aerospace and defense electronics businesses from Excelitas Technologies Corp. for approximately $710 million. The acquisition includes the optical systems business known under the Qioptiq brand based in Northern Wales, UK, as well as the U.S.-based advanced electronic systems business.

    The UK-based optical systems business provides advanced optics for heads-up and helmet-mounted displays, dismounted tactical night vision systems and proprietary glass used in space and satellite applications. In the U.S., the advanced electronics business provides custom energetics, including electronic safe and arm devices, high-voltage semiconductor switches and rubidium frequency standards for defense and space applications. The acquired business will be included in Teledyne’s aerospace and defense electronics segment and operate under the name Teledyne Qioptiq.

    “We are pleased to have expeditiously closed this acquisition, which represents our tenth corporate carve-out transaction,” said Robert Mehrabian, executive chairman. “Teledyne Qioptiq adds new technology and highly complementary products and customers, and we are delighted to welcome this business and its employees to Teledyne.”

    “The combination of Teledyne Qioptiq’s technologies and our existing broad portfolio of defense products will give us additional opportunities to deliver solutions to our customers,” said George Bobb, president and chief operating officer. Doug Benner, EVP and GM, Teledyne Qioptiq added, “We are excited about the future and look forward to a seamless integration that will benefit our employees and customers.”

    About Teledyne

    Teledyne Technologies Inc., founded in 1960 and headquartered in Thousand Oaks, CA, is a diversified industrial conglomerate specializing in advanced technology and high-reliability solutions. The company operates in four primary segments: digital imaging, instrumentation, engineered systems, and aerospace and defense electronics. Teledyne serves in domains including aerospace and defense, factory automation, environmental monitoring, oceanographic research, deepwater oil and gas exploration, medical imaging, and pharmaceutical research. In 2023, Teledyne reported revenues of approximately $5.5 billion and employed around 14,900 individuals worldwide.

    Source: Teledyne

  • RTX Board Elects Christopher T. Calio as Chairman

    RTX Board Elects Christopher T. Calio as Chairman

    ARLINGTON, VA, Feb 3, 2025 – The RTX Corp. Board of Directors has elected president and chief executive officer Christopher T. Calio as chairman of the Board, effective Apr 30, 2025.

    Christopher T. Calio. Image: LinkedIn

    This action follows notice to the Board by Gregory J. Hayes, RTX executive chairman, of his decision to step down as executive chairman and as a member of the Board prior to the company’s 2025 annual meeting.

    “As anticipated, as CEO, Chris Calio has continued to drive RTX growth by focusing on operational execution and technology innovation at the pace of customer needs,” said Greg Hayes. “I am confident that, as chairman and CEO, he will continue to execute on the strategic priorities that deliver long-term growth for all stakeholders. I wish him all the best for the future.”

    Effective Apr 30, 2025, Mr. Hayes will transition to the role of special advisor to the CEO through Jan 2, 2026. 

    About Christopher T. Calio

    Christopher T. Calio joined the RTX Bboard of Directors in 2023 and was elected president and CEO of the Company on May 2, 2024, where he has been responsible for leading more than 185,000 employees and generating over $80 billion in annual sales. He served as president and chief operating officer of RTX, overseeing the company’s three business units, as well as its functions for technology, engineering, enterprise services, digital, operations, quality, supply chain and environmental, health and safety.  Mr. Calio was previously president of Pratt & Whitney, where he led business that designs, manufactures and services aircraft engines and auxiliary power units. He joined the company in 2005 and held various leadership roles and drove significant transformational change throughout his tenure.

    About RTX

    RTX, formerly Raytheon Technologies, is a global leader in aerospace and defense, providing advanced systems, products, and services. The company specializes in aircraft engines, avionics, cybersecurity solutions, and defense systems, serving industries such as aerospace, defense, intelligence, and security. With a history spanning over a century, RTX combines expertise from its predecessor companies to drive technological advancements. Headquartered in Waltham, MA, the company generates annual revenues exceeding $60 billion and employs approximately 185,000 people worldwide. Its major clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.K. Ministry of Defense, Collins Aerospace, Airbus, and Boeing. RTX plays a critical role in advancing safety, performance, and efficiency in commercial and military applications, positioning itself as a trusted partner in the global market. The company prioritizes ongoing innovation, creating advanced solutions that improve security and mobility while addressing global industry challenges in various sectors.

  • IoT Tribe, Siemens Launch Flywheel to Encourage AI Startups

    IoT Tribe, Siemens Launch Flywheel to Encourage AI Startups

    LONDON, UK, Jan 30, 2025 – IoT Tribe has announced the launch of the Flywheel program, an initiative designed to encourage early-stage startups developing agentic AI and advanced technologies for the aerospace and defense sectors – developed in collaboration with Siemens Digital Industries Software. This program provides startups with Siemens’ engineering expertise, global networks, and advanced digital infrastructure. It helps them solve major industry issues while capitalizing on a multi-billion-pound market.

    A £400+ Billion Market Ripe for Transformation

    The aerospace and defense sector is expected to exceed £400 billion by 2030 due to growing global demand for AI-powered systems, autonomous technologies, and advanced analytics. These innovations improve operational efficiency, enhance safety, enable predictive insights, and support automated decision-making. This sector holds significant potential for transformative advancements.

    However, capitalizing on this market demands technology that is innovative, accessible, dependable, and meets strict industry requirements. Siemens’ Flywheel Program helps startups by providing resources, expertise, and connections to speed up market adoption and claim their share of this expanding sector.

    Tanya Suárez, founder & CEO of IoT Tribe, underscored the market opportunity and transformative nature of the program. She said, “5% of the S&P 500 gains in 2023 were driven by the Magnificent Seven either as key drivers or beneficiaries of AI acceleration. This program is not just about scaling innovation but also about equipping startups to compete in a high-growth market where the stakes—and the rewards—are higher than ever. Our collaboration with Siemens offers startups a unique launchpad to redefine the aerospace and defense industry.”

    “As the aerospace and defense sector continues to mature its digital transformation, the role of AI in solving high-stakes challenges is expanding rapidly. If the impact AI will have on the A&D industry could be measured by a 12 hour clock, right now we are at 5 seconds,” said Todd Tuthill, vice president of the aerospace and defense industry at Siemens Digital Industries Software. “The Flywheel program is designed to help startups break through barriers to market entry and deliver scalable solutions that address these urgent needs and move the industry well beyond the first 5 seconds.”

    Cultivating AI and Agentic AI to Reshape the Industry

    The program focuses on startups developing agentic AI solutions—systems that go beyond automation by thinking, learning, and acting autonomously in complex, real-time environments. These technologies are poised to revolutionize operations across the Aerospace and Defense supply-chain.

    These innovations, Siemens aims to position its partners at the forefront of a rapidly evolving market.

    Unrivalled Resources for Scaling Innovation

    The Flywheel Program offers startups an accelerated pathway to success, with access to:

    • Expert Guidance & Support: Leveraging of Siemens’ industry expertise to reduce operational and technical risks, increasing the confidence of customers in your solution.
    • Cutting Edge Tools & Infrastructure: Use of software from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software, enabling streamlined product development and validation.
    • Exclusive Collaboration Networks: Exposure to Siemens’ extensive ecosystem of partners, enabling fast-tracked market engagement and fostering strategic collaborations with other forward-thinking ventures.

    These resources help startups quickly create, validate, and launch technologies that meet industry demands, giving them an advantage in gaining market share.

    About Siemens Digital Industries Software

    Siemens Digital Industries Software provides comprehensive solutions for digital transformation, offering software and services that enable companies to improve product design, manufacturing, and operational processes. It serves a wide range of industries including automotive, aerospace, industrial machinery, electronics, and consumer products. Siemens Digital Industries Software has contributed towards innovation in manufacturing and product lifecycle management (PLM). The company is headquartered in Plano, TX, and is part of Siemens AG.

    Source: Siemens

  • Kennametal Appoints Douglas Dietrich to Board of Directors

    Kennametal Appoints Douglas Dietrich to Board of Directors

    PITTSBURGH, PA, Jan 30, 2025 – Kennametal Inc. has announced the election of Douglas Dietrich to its Board of Directors, effective Feb 1, 2025. Dietrich is currently the executive chairman and CEO of Minerals Technologies, a publicly traded specialty minerals company.

    Douglas Dietrich. Image: LinkedIn

    “Doug brings over 30 years of business and industry experience, most recently driving transformative change at Minerals Technologies through his strategic, operational and financial leadership,” said Sanjay Chowbey, president & CEO of Kennametal. “We’re excited to welcome him to our Board and confident that his expertise and global perspective will be key to advancing our strategy and enhancing shareholder value.”

    William M. Lambert, chairman of Kennametal’s Board of Directors, added: “Doug’s track record of delivering long-term growth through strategy, innovation and targeted M&A will be invaluable as we continue our transformational journey. We look forward to leveraging his insights and leadership as a member of our board.”

    About Douglas T. Dietrich

    Douglas T. Dietrich was elected Minerals Technologies Inc.’s (MTI) chairman of the board in March 2021. He has served as the chief executive officer of MTI since December 2016.

    Dietrich has over 30 years of experience in the industrial goods, mining and metals manufacturing sector as well as significant expertise in engineering, management and operations.

    Since joining MTI in 2007, Dietrich has held key management positions, including senior vice president, finance and treasury and chief financial officer with responsibility for the overall finance function, and vice president, corporate development and treasury where he led corporate strategy and M&A initiatives.

    Prior to his tenure at MTI, Dietrich held several positions of increasing leadership responsibility at Alcoa Inc. These roles included vice president, Alcoa Wheel Products – Automotive Wheels; president, Alcoa Latin America Extrusions; general manager, Global Rod and Bar Products; and manager, business development and strategic global sourcing – Asia and Latin America.

    Earlier in his career, Dietrich worked for Eaton Corporation and Westinghouse Electric Corporation where he held various positions in engineering and operations management.

    He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan and an MBA in Finance from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

    About Kennametal

    Founded in 1938, Kennametal Inc. is a global leader in manufacturing high-performance cutting tools, tooling systems, and wear-resistant solutions. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company serves diverse industries, including aerospace, earthworks, energy, general engineering, and transportation. With approximately 8,700 employees operating in more than 60 countries, Kennametal generated $2.1 billion in revenue during fiscal year 2023. The company’s products are integral to various applications, such as machining components for aerospace, automotive parts, mining equipment, and oil and gas drilling tools. Kennametal’s commitment to materials science and innovation has established it as a trusted partner in enhancing productivity and precision across multiple sectors.

    Source: Kennametal

  • Siemens Boosts Automotive, Aerospace Simulation with Simcenter Updates

    Siemens Boosts Automotive, Aerospace Simulation with Simcenter Updates

    PLANO, TX, Jan 29, 2025 – Siemens Digital Industries Software announced the latest update to its Simcenter portfolio, delivering advancements in aerostructure analysis, electric motor design, gear optimization, and smart virtual sensing. The enhancements are designed to streamline workflows, accelerate certification, and provide deeper insights into system performance.

    The latest updates to Siemens’ Simcenter portfolio deliver advances in aerostructure analysis, electric motor design, gear optimization, and smart virtual sensing. Photo: Siemens

    “These updates empower engineers to meet the evolving challenges of electrification and advanced air mobility,” said Jean-Claude Ercolanelli, senior vice president, simulation and test solutions, Siemens Digital Industries Software. “We’re delivering tools that drive innovation, improve efficiency and support a more sustainable and connected future. Our Simcenter portfolio is transforming engineering simulation.”

    Key updates and benefits:

    Integrated Aerostructure Analysis: Simcenter automates the creation of free-body diagrams and margin of safety (MoS) calculations, accelerating certification schedules by 20 percent. Engineers can now evaluate load paths across aircraft models and perform full-envelope MoS analysis without the need for costly in-house tools.

    Simcenter automates the creation of free-body diagrams and margin of safety (MoS) calculations, accelerating certification schedules by 20 percent. Photo: Siemens

    Axial flux motor simulation: Simcenter enables faster design and simulation of compact, high-power-density motors. Engineers can quickly create lightweight designs using Siemens’ Simcenter E-Machine design software, then transition seamlessly to 3D simulations in Siemens’ Simcenter 3D software for comprehensive electromagnetic, thermal and mechanical performance assessments.

    Simcenter enables design and simulation of axial flux motors in a single workflow. Photo: Siemens

    Gear Design Optimization: Simcenter introduces lightweight gear blank parameterization and an optimization framework to improve gearbox noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance. These tools help reduce late-stage design changes and streamline the development cycle.

    Simcenter introduces lightweight gear blank parameterization and an optimization framework to improve gearbox noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance. Photo: Siemens

    Extended Smart Virtual Sensing: Simcenter expands capabilities to include rigid body motion sensors and damage assessment tools, providing insights into the durability and remaining useful life of machines even in challenging test environments.

    Simulation efficiency and collaboration: Speeds up additive manufacturing simulations by a factor 200 percent with voxel mesh improvements and enhances collaboration with centralized model data and streamlined load and boundary condition transfers.

    Speeds up additive manufacturing simulations by a factor of 200 percent with voxel mesh improvements and enhances collaboration. Photo: Siemens

    About Siemens Digital Industries Software

    Siemens Digital Industries Software provides comprehensive solutions for digital transformation, offering software and services that enable companies to improve product design, manufacturing, and operational processes. It serves a wide range of industries including automotive, aerospace, industrial machinery, electronics, and consumer products. Siemens Digital Industries Software has contributed towards innovation in manufacturing and product lifecycle management (PLM). The company is headquartered in Plano, TX, and is part of Siemens AG.

    Source: Siemens

  • Dómhnal Slattery Appointed Chairman of Vertical Aerospace

    Dómhnal Slattery Appointed Chairman of Vertical Aerospace

    LONDON, UK and NEW YORK, NY, Jan 15, 2025 – Vertical Aerospace has announced the appointment of Dómhnal Slattery as chairman of its Board of Directors with immediate effect. Mr. Slattery brings over three decades of global aviation industry expertise to Vertical and rejoins the Board having previously served as chairman from Jan 2022 to Aug 2023 during which time Vertical built a strong order book and listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

    Mr. Slattery is one the world’s leading aircraft leasing and finance pioneers having founded and built Avolon and SMBC Aviation into leading industry players. As of present day, they are respectively ranked as the number two and three aircraft leasing companies in the world. Dómhnal Slattery is also CEO and chairman of Clahane Capital.

    Vertical will benefit from Mr. Slattery’s leadership and capital markets expertise and, in particular, his understanding of and track record in the global aviation sector. The businesses he has founded and built have collectively raised and deployed over $75 billion in capital.

    Mr. Slattery was the 2023 recipient of the International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT) Award and the “Outstanding Contribution to the Aviation Industry” award at the Aviation Industry Awards in 2016. He was also awarded an honorary doctorate from Dublin City University in 2022 and the NYU Lewis L Glucksman Award for Ethical Leadership in 2020 – both of which recognized his contribution to aviation and entrepreneurship.

    The appointment of Mr. Slattery as Chair follows significant progress for the business on its path to commercialize zero emissions air travel. Vertical recently strengthened its balance sheet by $180 million including securing $50 million of new committed funding. Vertical also became the second company in the world to achieve piloted thrustborne flight with a full-scale vectored thrust eVTOL aircraft.

    Stephen Welch, the outgoing chairman, will continue to serve on the Vertical Board as a non-executive director.

    Dómhnal Slattery, Vertical chairman, said, “Vertical is leading one of the most transformative shifts in aviation history, driving the transition to zero-emissions flight. I am excited to re-join the business at such a pivotal time. We have the team, technology and vision to pioneer electric aviation and deliver on our ambition to be the world’s leading eVTOL company by the end of the decade.”

    Stuart Simpson, CEO at Vertical Aerospace, said: “Dómhnal’s remarkable track record of founding and scaling world-class businesses positions him perfectly to guide Vertical’s journey. His leadership, understanding of capital markets and deep industry expertise will be invaluable as we accelerate towards achieving our Flightpath 2030 goal of becoming the global leader in the eVTOL sector.”