On Thursday, October 30th, ACM proudly hosted our 23rd annual Aerospace Alley® Future Workforce Opportunities Fair and Tradeshow at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. This year’s event brought together 120 exhibitors, including 100 ACM member companies along with sponsors, partners, and guest displayers—each showcasing the strength, capability, and momentum of our regional aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.
The morning Future Workforce Fair welcomed 1,460 students from more than 60 schools across Connecticut and Western Massachusetts. Students and educators had the unique opportunity to engage directly with aerospace manufacturers, explore careers in advanced manufacturing, and experience the wide range of pathways available in today’s high-tech aerospace industry.
During the luncheon program, ACM Executive Director Jessica Taylor delivered welcoming remarks, thanked our sponsors, partners, and volunteers, and paid special tribute to Al Samuel, ACM’s original Executive Director. After more than two decades of dedicated service, Al will be retiring at the end of this year. Jessica’s tribute highlighted his leadership, vision, and the enduring legacy he leaves across the ACM community.
Following her remarks, ACM President and President of Advance Welding Chris Kielb discussed ACM’s newly articulated purpose statement and emphasized the organization’s core value of collaboration, underscoring how collective effort continues to strengthen the Aerospace Alley® supply chain.
Keynote speaker Richard Aboulafia, a leading aerospace analyst, offered compelling insights into current industry trends, market dynamics, and the future of the global aerospace sector.
The afternoon Tradeshow continued the momentum, drawing several hundred trade visitors who connected with ACM members and guest companies to build relationships, explore partnership opportunities, and strengthen our region’s collaborative supply chain.
It was an energizing and successful day for the entire Aerospace Alley® community. We extend our sincere appreciation to every exhibitor, student, educator, visitor, and partner who helped make this event another milestone year for our region.
