DAIR SDI helps Avion Technologies Inc. increase its capabilities
About the Downsview Aerospace Innovation and Research Supplier Development Initiative (DAIR SDI):
The DAIR SDI has proven to be a vital resource in strengthening and growing the competitive edge of southern Ontario’s aerospace supply chain by providing small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) the right environment for transformation. With its simple but highly effective methodology, the SDI supports SMEs in assessing challenges and issues, prioritizing areas of improvement and undertaking action to enhance their maturity, expand their competencies, develop new capabilities and innovate.
The need and interest for such an initiative has been recognized by SMEs who applied in masses to this selective program, which was supported by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
While receiving financial support and a privileged mentor-mentee relationship through the SDI, an SME gets unprecedented access to a collaborative platform to bank on outside expertise and knowledge from various coaches and subject matter experts. Together with the SME, they work to determine and scope improvement projects to resolve identified gaps, innovate and enhance competitiveness.
Avion Technologies Inc. engagement with the DAIR SDI:
The SDI assessment helped Avion Technologies Inc. (Avion) assess operations, identify gaps, and implement an Entrepreneurial Operating System® that will set the right environment for undertaking continuous improvement initiatives and bettering on-time delivery. As the aerospace industry is slowly recovering post-pandemic, Avion recognized the need to adapt and remain competitive.
With the support of the DAIR SDI, the company purchased a new machine, allowing it to enter a new market with a larger parts envelope. This new equipment also enhances Avion’s productivity by 50 percent and reduces cycle time. Avion brought in a team to train its machinists to operate the new equipment efficiently and coach them on the best methods to perform preventive maintenance. The technological upgrade will significantly increase capacity, allowing Avion to take on larger projects and expand its product mix.
The positive impact of this upgrade extends beyond improving current operations as it allows Avion to enhance capabilities, open new markets and grow business opportunities. With these new capabilities, the sales team is particularly thrilled about the immense potential for growth as the SME can now bid on jobs that were previously restricted.
The anticipation and enthusiasm among the SMEs’ workforce are palpable. With new resources and capabilities, Avion is poised for continued success in an ever-changing market. The DAIR SDI is promoting the growth of SMEs in Ontario’s aerospace industry and is committed to driving supplier competitiveness and continuous improvement.
“The significance of our transformative journey with DAIR cannot be overstated. At Avion, we are grateful for DAIR’s invaluable support and guidance. We hope other Ontario companies can benefit from its expertise and support to achieve their desired growth and success“
Anesha Mohammed
Human Resources Manager, Avion Technologies Inc.