The most comprehensive gathering in the U.S. of manufacturing for air, sea, land and space – colocated with RAPID + TCT and SAE’s World Congress Experience (WCX) and America Makes’ Technical Review & Exchange (TRX)
APRIL 8 - 10, 2025
Huntington Place | Detroit
Colocated with
If you are in the North American aerospace and/or defense industries, you don’t want to miss AeroDef Manufacturing 2025.
Hosted at Huntington Place in America’s Motor City, April 8-10, SME’s own AeroDef Manufacturing will share the RAPID + TCT show floor, while SAE’s trademark mobility event ― World Congress Experience (WCX) and America Makes’ Technical Review & Exchange (TRX) ― will be hosted alongside the event. Attendees will enjoy complimentary access to the RAPID + TCT, AeroDef and WCX exhibit floors.
This is an unprecedented opportunity to connect with the people and technologies transforming business and manufacturing. AeroDef Manufacturing is part of this unmatched collection of events, bringing together influential stakeholders in manufacturing for air, sea, land and space.
Experience world-class education and unrivaled networking opportunities in Detroit, the epicenter of advanced manufacturing.
> TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SPECIAL RATES! Register by February 24, 2025 and Enjoy 25% Off All Conference Passes
The aerospace and defense industry stands at the forefront of innovation, requiring a highly skilled, adaptable, and forward-thinking workforce. As global challenges and technological advancements evolve at an unprecedented pace, the need to cultivate and empower both the current and future workforce has never been more urgent. AeroDef Manufacturing’s robust educational program provides incredible opportunities for education, training, and networking.
Now more than ever, prioritizing workforce development is not just a responsibility—it’s an opportunity to shape the future of aerospace and defense.
The dynamic and complex nature of aerospace and defense requires continuous education, open dialogue and strategic partnerships. It’s critical that industry members alike stay up to date on industry trends and evolving technologies. Hear technical presentations from aerospace and defense experts and connect with engineers, designers and peers.
• Sustainability
• Cybersecurity
• Machine Learning & AI
• Autonomy
• Digital Twins
• Supply Chain Management
• Additive Manufacturing
• Industry 4.0
• Composites
AeroDef Manufacturing is the only event solely focused on manufacturing for the aerospace and defense industries. Industry veterans and those new to the field benefit from the conference lineup. There’s something for everyone to dive into, engage with, expand on and learn from including:
At the forefront of innovative technology, the AeroDef Deck is designed to allow attendees to hear from aerospace and defense manufacturing industry leaders and experts on current and future factors impacting our nation’s ability to surge ahead of the competition ― ultimately strengthening our national security.
These insightful, 20-minute presentations with Q&A sessions bring manufacturers up to speed on developments in this ever-changing field. The panels and speakers will cover the critical conversation in the industry, from advancing manufacturing technology to the funding offered by public and private resources.
New in 2025 ― the APEX Accelerators will join us at AeroDef to facilitate small group sessions to discuss the process required by the Federal Government and the DoD to become a supplier or how to generate growth opportunities for your company.
The mission of APEX Accelerators is to help businesses effectively compete for government contracts, contributing to the economic strength of local communities and enhancing national defense capabilities by expanding the supplier base. Visit the Knowledge Bar for insights and on navigating the DoD with APEX Accelerators from around the nation.
Experience the most extensive portfolio of exhibitors yet! AeroDef Manufacturing attendees can connect with exhibitors on the show floor, as well as those at the colocated events — RAPID + TCT, WCX and TRX.
From design through sustainability and scalable technologies, featured showcases address the most relevant aerospace and defense manufacturing issues today with unique solutions and trusted experts.
Explore innovative advances in processes and materials including:
• Digital Manufacturing
• Additive Manufacturing & 3D Technologies
• Composites
• Precision Machining
• Automation & Robotics
• Quality, Measurement and Inspection
• Simulation
• Finishing & Coatings
• Advanced Materials
• And many more
The emphasis on continued education cannot be overstated. The AeroDef Conference will include technical tracks focusing on Advanced Materials, Composites, AI and Machine Learning, Supply Chain Management and more. Hear technical presentations from varying influential and innovative leaders in aerospace and defense that will help you stay current in an ever changing manufacturing landscape. All attendees are invited to upgrade their registration to include the exclusive AeroDef Manufacturing Conference.
• Composites
• Digital Manufacturing
• Additive Manufacturing & 3D Technologies
• Precision Machining
• Simulation
• Automation & Robotics
• Finishing & Coatings
• Advanced Materials
• Quality, Measurement and Inspection
• And many more
Get Unmatched Access to Leading Aerospace and Defense Manufacturers and the Extensive Supplier Network
Forge New Relationships and Drive Success at AeroDef Manufacturing 2025 Face-to-face interactions remain one of the most effective ways to build and strengthen business relationships. At AeroDef Manufacturing 2025, you’ll have the chance to showcase your solutions or products directly to key stakeholders, fostering new connections that can propel your company’s success while contributing to the advancement of aerospace and defense manufacturing.
As an exhibitor, you’ll gain unparalleled access to a dedicated space for engaging with key contacts from all four colocated events. AeroDef offers a unique value unmatched by any other advanced manufacturing event, ensuring you make meaningful connections in Detroit.
Why Exhibit at AeroDef Manufacturing 2025?
• Exclusive Networking Opportunities: Access decision-makers and innovators from the automotive, mobility, aerospace, and defense industries.
• High-Value Audience: Meet small- to medium-sized business owners, C-suite executives from global corporations, and high-ranking military officials.
• Unprecedented Reach: Be one of 600 exhibiting companies engaging with over 15,000 attendees, including technical experts and manufacturing leaders driving innovation.
• Industry Integration: Connect with professionals from diverse expertise areas across four colocated events, maximizing your visibility and impact.
• A Platform for Innovation: Showcase your solutions to a community committed to advancing North America’s manufacturing capabilities.
Don’t miss the opportunity to position your business as a leader in advanced manufacturing. Join us at AeroDef Manufacturing 2025 in Detroit and be part of the conversation shaping the future of aerospace and defense industries.
Save 25% on conference registration when you register by February 24, 2025
Senior executives from BAE Systems; Northrop Grumman; Lockheed Martin; General Dynamics; The Boeing Co.; RTX Corp. (formerly Raytheon); Array of Engineers; the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining; Bell Textron; and other organizations are working with SME to plan AeroDef Manufacturing 2025 ― assuring you an unprecedented opportunity to meet those elusive buyers and hard-to-reach executives.
We know a resilient and robust manufacturing supply chain that provides uninterrupted production of vital military equipment and technology is a critical factor to our current and future national security.
That’s why AeroDef Manufacturing 2025 focuses on all branches of the U.S. military ― air, sea, land and space ― bringing together individuals, information, technology and insights that are necessary to grow and modernize the defense industry and its ability to protect the U.S.
Advancements in technology, evolving defense priorities, and increased demand for commercial and space exploration capabilities drive substantial transformation in U.S. aerospace.
AeroDef is an event that focuses on strengthening the domestic supply chain through collaboration, advanced manufacturing technology and workforce development ― all critical factors that address challenges, and scale the national aerospace and defense industry.
AeroDef Manufacturing, RAPID + TCT, WCX and TRX is the industry’s gathering place. Join us and forge meaningful relationships ― best done in person and over great refreshments! Prepare to meet your next key contact or favorite colleague. Everyone is welcome ― your badge is your ticket.
Tuesday, April 8
Day one brings fun right to the show floor! Enjoy food and drinks in locations spread throughout the exhibits. Mingle with attendees, exhibitors, colleagues, speakers and industry thought leaders, and have fun while doing it.
Wednesday, April 9
Don’t miss the AM celebration of the year!
Endless food, fun, and friends
Live entertainment
Unforgettable moments
Thursday, April 10
Join us as we say “farewell” to our new friends and connections at a special closing social! Recall your favorite moments and insight while making plans for 2026!
All guests are welcome.
In Detroit, “Motor City” is more than just a name. It’s a living, breathing testament to American manufacturing. As the epicenter of industrial innovation for over a century, Detroit offers an unparalleled stage for AeroDef Manufacturing 2025.
Register by February 24, 2025 and Enjoy 25% Off All Conference Passes
Current SME Members, Government, and Academia: Receive a free Expo Pass, 30% off Conference Passes, and permanent Early Bird Pricing. Non-members: Adding a membership to their registration will receive 30% off Conference Passes. Students: Receive a free Expo Pass and 80% off Conference Passes. Once you have registered, please email a photo of your VALID relevant ID to AeroDef@Xpressreg.net. On-site Conference Passes prices increase by 25%.
All above discounts are applied to either the Early Bird Price, the Standard Price, or the On Site Price. Additional discounts may not be combined with any of the above discounts.
AeroDef Manufacturing
Produced by SME, in partnership with industry OEMs, our mission is to foster innovation across the extended enterprise to advance the supply base, expedite production times and maintain manufacturing competitiveness in the global economy. AeroDef Manufacturing highlights the industry’s most advanced technologies across an innovative floor plan designed to facilitate interaction and business relationships between exhibitors and buyers looking for integrated solutions.
