Avcorp Industries and the University of British Columbia have agreed to explore the establishment of a Learning Factory for Advanced Composites at UBC’s Okanagan campus.
The two parties, represented by Avcorp CEO Peter George and UBC Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Principal Deborah Buszard, signed an MOU today at the Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom.
“Avcorp Industries is committed to exploring the establishment of an aerospace industry-first Learning Factory in a way which will push the boundaries of advanced composite manufacturing as well as provide a platform for a new level of research and training in British Columbia,” says Peter George, CEO of the Avcorp Industries Group. “We are looking forward to working with the UBC-based Composites Research Network in an initial focus on aerospace applications of composite materials and optimized manufacturing processes.”
Avcorp Industries is a supplier of integrated composite and metallic aerostructures, based in Delta, BC.
“BC’s economic success is due in part to our diversified economy—and this MOU will lead to the exploration of innovative opportunities for Kelowna and area,” says Norm Letnick, MLA for Kelowna-Lake Country. “Congratulations to Avcorp Industries and UBC on this important partnership, which will provide great training opportunities for students as well.”
“Composite manufacturing is a growth industry,” says Stephen Fuhr, MP for Kelowna-Lake Country. “This Learning Factory concept provides a solid opportunity for employment, education and innovation. It would also further solidify Kelowna-Lake Country as one of Canada’s premier aerospace clusters.”