DEARBORN, Mich., November 19, 2013— AeroDef® Manufacturing Summit and Exposition 2014 announces four panel discussions focused on the most critical issues facing aerospace and defense manufacturing today as part of their Executive Insights Series.

AeroDef Manufacturing takes place February 25–27, 2014, at the Long Beach (Calif.) Convention Center. As part of the Executive Insight Series, panel discussions follow remarks by speakers from the highest echelons of business and government. Speakers provide an insider’s perspective on these complex issues and a meaningful framework for discussion.

·       “Sequestration: OEM & Supplier Perspectives,” Tuesday, February 25, 9:00 – 9:45 am. Focus is on how deep cuts in defense program are driving OEMs and their suppliers to rethink business strategies. Includes participants from Lockheed Martin and Ace Clearwater Enterprises.

·       “Cyber Security and Counterfeit Parts & Materials: An Escalating Global Challenge for Aerospace & Defense Manufacturers,” Wednesday, February 26, 1:00 – 2:00 pm. Focus on how manufacturers are addressing vulnerabilities in the supply chain and elsewhere that make programs susceptible to security breaches. Includes participants from the Missile Defense Agency, Lockheed Martin and Nokomis, Inc.

·       “The New Manufacturing Innovation Institutes: How Will They Help Aerospace & Defense Manufacturers,” Thursday, February 27, 8:30 – 9:30 am. An update on current and future initiatives of the federal program to promote investment and production in the U.S. Includes participants from the National Institute of Science and Technology Advanced Manufacturing Office, America Makes - the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute (NAMII), Digital Manufacturing & Design Innovation Institute and Lightweight & Modern Metals Manufacturing Institute.

·       “3D Modeling Manufacturing World: Significant Advancements in 3D Manufacturing as it Relates to the Future of Aerospace & Defense,” Thursday, February 27, 1:00 – 2:00 pm. Focus on the current applications and potential of 3D technology to be a transformational agent in aerospace and defense manufacturing. Participants to be determined.

Registration is now open for AeroDef Manufacturing. Visit the website at aerodefevent.com to register and for details about exclusive and featured speakers, exposition, summit and networking events.  It is produced by SME in partnership with Bell Helicopter/Textron, Boeing, EADS, Lockheed Martin, National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining, Northrop Grumman and Raytheon.

Join our Twitter group @AeroDefMfg and our LinkedIn group to learn details about AeroDef as they unfold, including keynote speakers, panels and sponsorship opportunities for exhibitors.

Note to Media:
Visit the SME Media Center for the latest news, one-stop access to SME Events, Manufacturing Quick links, SME social media sites, SME News Feed and more. Qualified members of the news media can register for AeroDef Manufacturing here.

About AeroDef Manufacturing
AeroDef Manufacturing is the leading technical conference and exposition for the aerospace and defense manufacturing industry. Produced by SME in partnership with leading industry OEMs, its mission is to foster innovation across the extended enterprise to reduce costs, expedite production times and maintain U.S. competitiveness in the global economy.

About SME 
SME connects all those who are passionate about making things that improve our world. As a nonprofit organization, SME has served practitioners, companies, educators, government and communities across the manufacturing spectrum for more than 80 years. Through its strategic areas of events, media, membership, training and development, and the SME Education Foundation, SME shares knowledge to advance manufacturing. At SME, we are making the future. Together.

Media Contact: 
Kate Ennis
Frank Strategic Marketing
Email Contact
Tel 301.580.6726