SPADA x Machina Labs Event Highlights
Advancing Innovation, Talent, and Opportunity in the Southern Pacific Aerospace and Defense Community
Advancing Regional Innovation
SPADA continues to amplify the manufacturers and innovators shaping the future of aerospace and defense across the U.S. Southern Pacific region. Our mission is to support breakthrough technologies and help local companies grow and compete.
Listening to Industry Needs
At our recent event with Machina Labs, we focused on what matters most: listening to our aerospace and defense (A&D) community. Attendees shared their desire for actionable ways to grow, connect, and unlock new opportunities.
Connecting to SpaceWERX Opportunities
To support these opportunities, we welcomed Major Whitney Hessler from SpaceWERX. She provided valuable guidance on partnering with U.S. Space Force programs and explained how companies can participate in advanced defense initiatives.
Turning Connections into Action
We are committed to ensuring these connections lead to results. Each SPADA event brings together industry leaders, government resources, and academic partners to foster collaboration and regional growth.
Bridging the Talent Gap
We are addressing a key challenge: companies face talent shortages while recent graduates struggle to enter the aerospace and defense industry. To help bridge this gap, we invited local university students to SPADA x Machina Labs, where they engaged with industry leaders, explored career opportunities, and met employers seeking skilled talent. As workforce shortages continue, SPADA events serve as a vital link between emerging professionals and organizations in need.
Partner Spotlight: Machina Labs
A special thank you to Machina Labs for co-hosting this impactful event and opening their incredible facility to our community. Machina Labs’ commitment to innovation and collaboration reflects exactly what SPADA is all about.
Ready to Get Involved? Build the Future with SPADA.
If our event resonated with you, take the next step: join our alliance! SPADA is your catalyst for growth, innovation, and regional strength in aerospace and defense.
Now’s the time to step out of the silo and join a collaborative ecosystem where industry, government, and academia solve challenges, unlock opportunities, and shape the future together. We’re building on our region’s legacy to ensure it remains one of the world’s leading aerospace hubs.
We’re actively seeking partners, affiliates, and donors who want to make a real impact. Your support drives workforce development, sparks innovation, and secures our region’s long-term competitiveness.
-Pennie Burnham
SPADA CEO
