WINNIPEG, MANITOBA--(Marketwire - Jan. 27, 2012) - Companies in Manitoba's aerospace research and development sector will be positioned to gain an increased competitive advantage, thanks to federal funding announced today by the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.
"Our Government's investment will create opportunities to commercialize new products and solidify Manitoba's place in global aerospace as the world's leading cold weather testing location," said Minister Yelich. "Investments such as this are vital to fostering economic growth and creating high value jobs for Western Canadians."
An investment of $5 million through the Western Diversification Program will enable West Canitest R & D Inc. (WestCaRD) to broaden and advance the aerospace industry and manufacturing cluster in Manitoba by developing new aerospace technologies and industrial research capabilities.
GE is proud to support the commercialization of innovation in Canada," said Elyse Allan, President and CEO, GE Canada. "We want to thank Western Economic Diversification Canada for their generous support to the GE Aviation Engine Testing and Research Development Centre by supporting WestCaRD. The WD contribution and the support of StandardAero and WestCaRD are integral to the success of this world-class facility."
Specialized equipment to be purchased by WestCaRD under this project includes equipment related to smart sensor technology, high speed data systems, noise and emissions reduction, structural ceramic composites, and improved aerospace testing certification.
"This new engine testing and R&D facility is a very significant milestone for StandardAero and the entire Manitoba Aerospace industry," said Kim Olson, Senior Vice President, Helicopters, Energy and Engineering, StandardAero. "StandardAero has maintained a long partnership with GE in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of some of its most successful engine lines. The financial support announced today by the Canadian Government will provide a major boost in this partnership and forward the continued success of Manitoba's role in the growth of the Canadian aerospace industry, both here in Winnipeg and throughout the province."
WestCaRD is a non-profit organization partnering with GE Canada and StandardAero. Together, they will undertake aircraft engine testing as well as research and technology development at unique test facilities located at the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport.
"The financial assistance provided to WestCaRD by Western Economic Diversification Canada creates a springboard for leading-edge research and technology development initiatives and opportunities for Manitoba companies and educational institutions to participate in the planned enhancements to the GE Testing Research & Development Centre," said Vic Gerden, Director and CEO, WestCaRD.
Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and advances the interests of western Canadians in national decision-making.
