Regional Businesses Come Together to Launch Peterborough Aerospace and Defence Cluster

Peterborough, ON – 60 representatives from businesses, educational institutions, and partner organizations gathered on Tuesday, June 23 to officially launch the Peterborough Aerospace and Defence Cluster (PADC), a regional network focused on supporting the growth of Peterborough’s aerospace and defence sectors and supply chains. 

The inaugural meeting brought participants together to explore opportunities to strengthen the local supply chain and position the region as a competitive location within Canada's aerospace and defence industries. 

During the meeting, participants formally established the PADC and identified key priorities, including workforce development. Attendees shared information about their organizations and explored opportunities for future collaboration. 

Launched through a collaboration between the City of Peterborough, The Loomex Group, ACF Associates, and Explorer Solutions, the PADC will connect manufacturers, suppliers, innovators, academic institutions, and government partners to support industry growth across the region. 

The PADC will help map and promote the regional supply chain, encourage collaboration among businesses, support workforce training and raise Peterborough’s profile as a destination for investment and innovation. 

The launch of the PADC is part of ongoing efforts to support local businesses, strengthen industry partnerships and create opportunities for long-term economic growth. 

Quotes 

“The launch of the PADC is an important step in strengthening two of the region’s key industries,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “The PADC creates opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and economic growth. This initiative will help showcase the expertise that exists in our community and support the continued success of local companies in national and international markets.” – Mayor Jeff Leal, City of Peterborough 

“Ontario has the talent, infrastructure, and innovation capacity to be a global leader in aerospace and defence. A coordinated industrial strategy is how we translate that potential into sustained economic and strategic advantage.” - Bernie Derible, Ontario Agent General ASEAN and Ontario's Military and Defense Representative  

“The Loomex Group of Companies is thrilled to help bring the region’s aerospace and defence sector together. This collaboration highlights the depth and strength of the Peterborough region supply chain and reinforces our region’s growing role as a hub for innovation, capability, education, and industry leadership.” - Trent Gervais, President and CEO of The Loomex Group.