In our inaugural post, we talked about how Waterloo Region holds all the puzzle pieces necessary to be a global aviation, aerospace, and defence superpower. We introduced AeroWR as the initiative dedicated to assembling those pieces and showing the world the complete picture.
The response has been incredible, but the launch was just Day One. The real work—the exciting work of building momentum—starts now.
So, what is next for AeroWR? We have an ambitious roadmap focused on deep collaboration, strengthening our local supply chain, and turning up the volume on Waterloo Region’s capabilities.
The Power Behind the Push
It is important to understand that AeroWR isn’t operating in isolation. The team behind AeroWR comes from the Build Waterloo Region division of the Region of Waterloo. A primary mandate of this division is driving tangible job growth across our communities. AeroWR is a key strategic initiative designed to deliver on that mandate for a high-value sector.
This initiative didn’t happen overnight. It is the result of decades of leadership, dedication, and commitment from our Regional Council. They have long supported the foundation necessary to get us to this inflection point, and their ongoing backing is vital as we move to the next phase of growth.
Expanding the Table
Our immediate focus is growing industry voices at our AeroWR Roundtable. We are incredibly proud that half of the major local players in aviation, aerospace, and defence are already seated at the table. But we aren’t stopping there. We need every voice—from established giants to emerging innovators—engaged in this conversation to shape the sector’s direction.
The Hub of Collaboration
AeroWR’s primary role is to act as the vital liaison and facilitator between industry, academia, and government. We are moving forward on three key collaborative fronts:
- Fueling the Talent Pipeline – We are deepening our work with our renowned post-secondary institutions. We need to ensure that the talent being produced precisely matches the real-world demands of the sector. Furthermore, we will facilitate collaboration on industry-focused research and innovation, ensuring academic brilliance translates into industrial advantage.
- Nurturing Homegrown Genius – We are collaborating with local incubators to retain the “genius talent” and intellectual property generated right here in the region. We don’t just want innovation to happen here; we want it to plant roots, scale up, and grow the sector from within.
- Strengthening Our Backyard – There is a tremendous need to better understand our own ecosystem. Everyone at the table—including industry leaders—wants a clearer picture of local products and capabilities. By understanding what is in our own backyard, we can become less reliant on imports and uncover opportunities for major joint procurement.
Amplifying Our Voice
Finally, we are going to be loud about the potential of this sector in Waterloo Region.
You will see AeroWR at major trade shows, lobby events, and conferences. We are investing in marketing and aggressive lead generation. We are partnering closely with Waterloo EDC, as well as our provincial and federal counterparts, to ensure our message is unified and powerful.
We are also reaching out to global sector leaders to build alliances for knowledge sharing and relationship building.
Our goal is simple: When people think of aviation, aerospace, and defence in Ontario, Waterloo Region will be the first thought that comes to mind.
Follow the Journey
We are moving fast. The best way to stay informed about these initiatives, new partnerships, and upcoming events is to follow this blog and subscribe to our newsletter today.
