YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO MEET WITH THE GREATEST MINDS IN AEROSPACE AND DEFENSE IS NOW.
The best and brightest leaders in aerospace and defense will land in Detroit, gathering at AeroDef Manufacturing 2025!
This is your opportunity to meet and network with industry and technical experts. Beyond networking, AeroDef is a launchpad to your next groundbreaking idea that will transform your business.
AeroDef 2025 – The aerospace and defense event that’s too significant to miss.
• Gain insights from top industry leaders at the AeroDef Conference.
• Get expert guidance from APEX Accelerators on becoming a DoD supplier.
• Grow your network and connect with key industry experts most relevant to your business.
• Explore transformative technologies through hands-on engaging exhibits – meet with technical experts to get answers to your production challenges.
“AeroDef Manufacturing brings together some of the brightest minds in the industry. It’s an incredible opportunity to learn from top talent, make meaningful connections, and drive both business growth and continuous improvement.”
Paul Lindsay, New Business Development Leader Camcraft
Cross-Industry Collaboration and Partnership Create Industry Transformation
SME brings together an unmatched lineup at AeroDef Manufacturing in Detroit, offering you a unique opportunity to connect with leaders shaping the future of air, sea, land, and space manufacturing.
Colocated with RAPID + TCT, SAE’s World Congress Experience (WCX), and the Department of Defense’s America Makes Spring Technical Review and Exchange (TRX), AeroDef attendees will enjoy complimentary access to all exhibit floors – providing an expanded audience, adding unprecedented depth to networking opportunities.
Nowhere else in North America can you find leading manufacturing experts specializing in aerospace, mobility, defense, and military applications, as well as other industries through the colocated events like RAPID + TCT, WCX and TRX – all under one roof at Huntington Place.
Securing the Future of Aerospace and Defense
The aerospace and defense industry stands at the forefront of innovation, requiring a highly skilled, adaptable, and forwardthinking workforce. As global challenges and technological advancements evolve, the need to cultivate and empower the current and future workforce has never been more urgent.
AeroDef Manufacturing’s robust educational program provides incredible education, training, and networking opportunities.
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 AERODEF MANUFACTURING CONFERENCE
Aerospace and defense are both dynamic and complex, requiring continuous education, open dialogue, and strategic partnerships. It is vital that you must stay up to date on industry trends and evolving technologies.
AeroDef Manufacturing is committed to providing valuable educational opportunities that enhance the event experience. Key focus areas of education will include:
• Sustainability
• Cybersecurity
• Machine Learning & AI
• Autonomy
• Digital Twins
• Supply Chain Management
ACCESS TO VALUABLE RESOURCES
• 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 space can benefit greatly from the conference lineup.
Attendees will be able to engage and learn through:
Build your schedule and make connections as you prepare for your visit to AeroDef in Detroit. Among numerous helpful resources, you’ll find an interactive floor plan, exhibitor details, speaker bios, specialized
content and more!
NETWORKING EVENTS
SHOW FLOOR RECEPTION
Tuesday, April 8
Day one kicks off with excitement right on the show floor! Get ready to fuel your fun with delicious food and refreshing drinks available throughout the exhibits.
Mingle with attendees, exhibitors, colleagues, speakers and industry thought leaders – and have fun doing it.
THE AM INDUSTRY CELEBRATION
Wednesday, April 9
Don’t miss the AM celebration of the year!
Endless food, fun, and friends
Live entertainment
Unforgettable moments
CLOSING SOCIAL
Thursday, April 10
Join us at a special closing social as we say “farewell” to our new friends and connections. Recall your favorite moments and insights while making plans for 2026!
All guests are welcome.
Join us and forge meaningful relationships – best done in person and over great refreshments! Prepare to meet your next key contact or favorite colleague. Your show badge is your admission ticket. CONNECT, COLLABORATE, CELEBRATE
SAVE $125–GET YOUR FREE EXPO PASS!
Expo Pass provides you with access to all Exhibits, Networking and Special Event Features.
LEADERSHIP
LEADERSHIP YOU CAN TRUST
AeroDef Manufacturing has developed an executive committee made up of the leading OEMs in the United States to drive the development of this industry-defining event. These executives have all come together as one team committed to the sustainability of aerospace and defense manufacturing:
Dean Bartles, PhD, FSME
President & CEO
Manufacturing Technology Deployment Group
Avner Ben-Bassat
President & CEO
Plataine Ltd.
William E. Bigot
Founder & Managing Director
Quantum Consulting LLC
Jason Bither
Manager, Advanced Manufacturing & Technology
Northrop Grumman Corp.
George (Nick) Bullen
Technical Fellow, Chief Engineer, Advanced
Manufacturing Technology
Northrop Grumman Corp.
Kelly Dodds
Senior Director, Raytheon Industry 4.0, Advanced Manufacturing, Modernization & Technology
Raytheon Technologies
Jennifer Fielding, PhD, FSME
Chief, Ceramics Branch
Air Force Research Laboratory
Aaron Lalonde, PhD
Domestic Partnership Lead Army DEVCOM Ground Vehicle System Center
Michael “Mick” Maher
President & Co-Founder
Maher & Associates LLC
Jeffrey L. “Jeff” Miller, PhD, FSME, CMfgE, PE
Senior Technical Fellow, Production Engineering
Commercial Airplane
The Boeing Co.
Paul Oldroyd
Technical Fellow, Manufacturing & Engineering Process
Development Engineering Department
Bell Helicopter Textron (Retired)
LEADERSHIP
Stacy Paul
Aerospace Engineer and CEO
Array of Engineers (AoE)
David Rampton
Managing Director, Aerospace & Defense
TBG Associates
Ralph L. Resnick, FSME
Advanced Manufacturing Consultant
C3Consulting
Justin Rivera
Senior Technical Engineer
Airtech Advanced Materials Group
John D. Russell, DSc, FSME
Vice President of Business Development for Defense Fives Inc.
William “Bill” Saathoff
Director, Advanced Manufacturing
Technology & Development
Lockheed Martin Corp.
John H. Vickers, FSME
Principal Technologist, Space Technology Directorate
NASA
KNOWLEDGE BAR
New in 2025 ― The APEX Accelerators will join us at AeroDef to facilitate small group sessions in the Knowledge Bar to discuss best practices and standard operating procedures required to conduct business safely and securely in the defense industry and other federal departments.
APEX Accelerators’ mission 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 a Knowledge Bar with APEX Accelerators nationwide for insights and information on navigating government red tape.
TUESDAY, APRIL 8 | 11:00 AM
Mastering Registration: Conquering SAM with your APEX Accelerator
In this presentation, we’ll break down the System for Award Management (SAM) registration process and show you how to navigate it with confidence. You’ll learn the key steps to getting registered, common pitfalls to avoid, and how your APEX Accelerator can provide expert guidance along the way. This session will equip you with the tools to streamline the process and position your business for success.
TUESDAY, APRIL 8 | 1:30 PM
SBA Certifications Unlocked: Your Path to Success
This presentation will demystify the Small Business Administration (SBA) certifications and how they can give your business a competitive edge. We’ll explore key programs like 8(a), HUBZone, WOSB, and SDVOSB, outlining their benefits, eligibility requirements, and the application process.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9 | 11:00 AM
Mission Future: Understanding DoD’s Innovation Programs Part 1
This presentation will introduce the Department of Defense’s (DoD) innovation programs, designed to drive cutting-edge solutions and strengthen national security. We’ll explore key initiatives/programs and highlight how businesses and innovators can engage with the DoD to develop groundbreaking technologies. Whether you’re a startup, small business, or researcher, this session will provide valuable insights into navigating these opportunities and shaping the future of defense innovation.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9 | 1:30 PM
Mission Future: Understanding DoD’s Innovation Programs Part 2
This presentation will introduce the Department of Defense’s (DoD) innovation programs, designed to drive cutting-edge solutions and strengthen national security. We’ll explore key initiatives/programs and highlight how businesses and innovators can engage with the DoD to develop groundbreaking technologies. Whether you’re a startup, small business, or researcher, this session will provide valuable insights into navigating these opportunities and shaping the future of defense innovation.
THURSDAY, APRIL 10 | 11:00 AM
Winning with Data: Exploring Market Research for Business Growth (Federal)
This presentation will explore how market research can be a powerful tool for businesses looking to succeed in the federal marketplace. We’ll cover key research strategies, data sources, and techniques to identify opportunities, understand government demand, and position your business for success. If you’re new to federal contracting or looking to refine your approach, this session will equip you with the insights needed to make data-driven decisions and gain a competitive edge.
THURSDAY, APRIL 10 | 1:30 PM
Winning with Data: Exploring Market Research for Business Growth (State and Local)
“Winning with Data: Exploring Market Research for Business” highlights the critical role of data-driven insights in shaping successful business strategies. This presentation delves into the methods of collecting and analyzing market research data to identify customer trends, preferences, and competitive advantages, ultimately helping businesses make informed decisions for growth and innovation. Attendees will learn how to leverage data to stay ahead in dynamic markets and drive better outcomes.
AERODEF EXHIBITORS & TECHNOLOGIES
Experience the most extensive portfolio of exhibitors yet!
AeroDef Manufacturing attendees can connect with exhibitors on the AeroDef event floor and at the colocated events: SME’s RAPID + TCT, SAE’s WCX, and America Makes’ Spring TRX.
Explore innovative advances in processes and materials, including:
• Digital Manufacturing
• Additive Manufacturing & 3D Technologies
• Composites
• Precision Machining
• Automation & Robotics
EXHIBITING COMPANIES*
AIP Precision Machining
Aligned Vision
Allegheny Performance Plastics
Altair Engineering Inc.
Ambrell Induction
Heating Solutions
American Additive Manufacturing LLC
ANCA CNC Machines
APEX Accelerator Knowledge Bar
ARM Institute
Assembrix Ltd.
BURKHARDT+WEBER
Camcraft Inc.
Cignys
Computer Integrated Machining
Controx Inc.
Corvaer
Creative Automation Inc.
Diverse Dimensions
Duroair Technologies Inc.
• Quality, Measurement and Inspection
• Simulation
• Finishing & Coatings
• Advanced Materials
• And many more
EDM Sales & Supplies Inc.
Emco Corp.
FlackTek Inc.
FlexSys
FormAlloy
Horizons Inc.
INORA Technologies Inc.
Jetco Solutions
JOCUsolutions LLC
JR Machine Inc.
Juxtum
Kennametal Inc.
Kubotek Kosmos
LEWCO Inc.
LIFT
Machina Labs Inc.
Mersen USA
Methods Machine Tools Inc.
Michigan Pneumatic Tool Inc.
Open Source Integrators
SCAN NOW FOR AN INTERACTIVE
FLOORPLAN EXPERIENCE
The exhibits open at 9:00 a.m.
Orion Industries Ltd.
Panam3D
Performance Engineered Products
Precision Jig & Fixture
ProcessRidge
Prodways Tech
Proto XYZ LLC
Recognition Robotics Inc.
Schmid Tool Engineering
StaticStop by SelecTech
Surface Combustion Inc.
Swoosh Technologies
Tebis USA
Tethon 3D
Thermal Wave Imaging Inc.
TriMech
Weber Manufacturing Technologies Inc.
Whitfield Group
Wickert Hydraulis Presses
Wilder Systems Inc.
*Exhibitor list as of 2/18/2025
AERODEF MANUFACTURING CONFERENCE 2025 WHERE INNOVATION TAKES FLIGHT
Every second counts, which is why continued education is so important. Dive into essential topics shaping the future of manufacturing through our focused conference tracks and technical presentations. Take advantage of this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in aerospace and defense!
TUESDAY, APRIL 8
TIME TOPIC
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Leveraging AM to Better Understand Nondestructive Evaluation Using Internal Structures
Master 3D Scanning, Metrology, and Automation and Boost Your Team's Performance
Aerospace Manufacturing Automation Solutions
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Eliminating Quality Escapes for Zero-Defect Manufacturing: A Digital Approach
Human Digital Twins for Quality Assurance
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Transformational Controls Methodology for Optimization of Aerospace / Defense Sanding Ops
Automated Installation of Difficult to Access Fasteners in Aircraft Assemblies
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Ultrasonic Nondestructive Qualification of IN718 Fabricated Using Laser DED
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Automating Quality Checks of CAD Models During Digital Design & Synchronizing with Systems Architecture Models and Bills of Materials on the XM30 Combat Vehicle Program
PRESENTER
Jacey Birkenmeyer Purdue University
Frank Thomas 3D Infotech
Rick Schultz FANUC
Scott Blake Aligned Vision
Christopher Colaw Lockheed Martin
John Wentz Temple Allen Industries
Ryan Schuette PAR Systems
Sunil Chakrapani Michigan State University
Jeffery Jurand US Army Acquisitions
Real-Time Prediction of Distortion & Residual Stress via Machine Learning
Matthew Robinson Southwest Research Institute
TUESDAY, APRIL 8
TIME
2:30 PM – 3:00 PM
(CONTINUED)
Automated Assembly of Components and Circuits for Non-planar Assembly
Automation Right-Sizing: How Companies Can Boost Output and Quality Amid Resource Constraints
Chaining and Compensation over Multiple Manufacturing Process Simulation Domains
3:00 PM – 3:30 PM
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Enhancing Productivity and Quality from Aerospace to Shipyards with Collaborative Robots
Automating Digital Engineering Workflows to Accelerate Aerospace Innovation
High Accuracy Robotic Digital Twinning
Kenneth Church nScrypt Inc.
Dennis Schunigl Ingenics Corp.
Adam Brandt Hexagon
Jeff Robertson Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence
Will Healy III Universal Robots / Teradyne
Max Seissler Synera GmbH
Wallace Scott Synera
Roger Holden True Position Robotics Limited
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9
TIME
10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
LPBF of Functionally Graded Materials: Challenges and Solutions in Bonding IN718 and SS316L
Securing the Defense Industrial Base Against Cyber Attacks and Espionage
MELD®: An Additive Forging Process for Titanium Alloys
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Secure Scaling of Additive Manufacturing: Mitigating Cyber Risks in 3D Printing
Ala Qattawi University of Toledo
Bill Anderson, PhD Mattermost
Matthew Heideman Mattermost
Chase Cox MELD Manufacturing Corp.
Victor Gerdes Stratasys
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Applying Water Cavitation as an Alternative to Shot Peening for Aerospace Component Surfaces
From Compliance to Contracts: How Your QMS & Cybersecurity Unlock Customer Opportunities
Select the Right Printing Technology for AeroDef: Using Post Processing to Help
Strengthening Cybersecurity in Machine Tools in Industry 4.0
Daniel Sanders Sugino Machine Ltd.
Paul Van Metre ProShop ERP
Steve Alviti Bel Air Finishing Supply
Tiansu Jing SIEMENS Industry Inc.
TRAVEL ACCOMMODATIONS AND DISCOUNTS
FLIGHT DISCOUNTS:
Delta Air Lines is pleased to offer special discounts for RAPID + TCT & AeroDef 2025. Use meeting event code NY3MN when booking your flight.
HOTEL INFORMATION:
In partnership with onPeak, we have secured discounted rates at the Westin Book Cadillac as the headquarters hotel for AeroDef Manufacturing.
We know plans change, so to help ease your travel planning, onPeak, the only official hotel provider for AeroDef Manufacturing 2025, offers convenient hotel options with flexible change and cancellation policies. We encourage you to book through them early for the best selection and price.
PARKING & DIRECTIONS:
Huntington Place is located right in the bustling heart of downtown Detroit, and is easily accessible from I-75, I-96, and I-94 freeways, and the Detroit People Mover.
Learn more about parking at Huntington Place and download printable directions.
WHY DETROIT? WHERE INNOVATION MEETS INDUSTRY
In Detroit, “Motor City” is more than just a name. It’s a living, breathing testament to American manufacturing.
WHAT TO DO WHILE YOU’RE HERE:
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) – Home to world-class collections, including works by Van Gogh and Rembrandt, and Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.
Tour the Henry Ford Museum – Dive into America’s history of innovation and technology, with exhibits showcasing the evolution of the automobile and other groundbreaking inventions.
OUR FAVORITE FOOD SPOTS:
Grand Trunk Pub —Established in 1905 as a railway ticket station, the Grand Trunk Pub later served as a bar for the Metropole Hotel before being transformed into the beloved establishment it is today.
Buddy’s Pizza – A Detroit institution, Buddy’s is credited with creating Detroit-style pizza—thick, square slices with crispy edges and a deliciously gooey layer of cheese.
Current SME Members, Government, and Academia: Receive a free Expo Pass and 30% off Conference Passes Non-members: By adding a membership to your registration, you 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 Pass prices increase by 25%.
1000 Town Center, Suite 1910
Southfield, Michigan 48075
FREE EXPO PASS
with promo code AD25SAVE
Value $125
Upgrade to a conference pass to elevate your event experience.
AeroDef Manufacturing® is an aerospace and defense manufacturing conference and trade show for the aerospace and defense industries. Produced by SME, in partnership with industry OEMs, our mission is to foster innovation across the extended enterprise to reduce costs, expedite production times and maintain manufacturing competitiveness in the global economy. AeroDef showcases 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.
