The Downsview Aerospace Innovation & Research (DAIR) Hub is working to advance Canada’s global aerospace industry through collaboration. In this episode, DAIR’s executive director Phil Arthurs shares insights into Ontario's aerospace industry and how programs like its Green Fund and Supplier Development Initiative are catalyzing innovation within it. Phil highlights the importance of aerospace to Ontario's economy, underlines why being in the same room is key for collaboration, and extends an invitation to the organization’s flagship event, DAIR to Innovate, on October 23, 2025.

• 00:00 Introduction to Making it in Ontario
• 02:17 Phil's Career Journey and DAIR's Evolution
• 11:04 DAIR's Green Fund and Supplier Development Initiative
• 18:09 The Pan-Canadian Aerospace Industry
• 20:09 How to Bring Industry and Academics Together
• 22:56 The Importance of Physical Spaces for Collaboration
• 24:39 Preview of DAIR to Innovate 2025
• 29:30 Where Ontario’s Aerospace Industry is Heading
• 37:10 Navigating This Dynamic Trade, Investment and Labour Force Environment

Highlighted Links

• DAIR to Innovate 2025 Event Page: dairhub.com/dair-to-innovate-2025-event/
• “DAIR: Workforce Development” (Phil’s previous episode of Making it in Ontario): soundcloud.com/making-it-in-ontario-past/047-spyro-cacoutis-michelle-decoste-aerospace-workforce-development?utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing
• “NordSpace: Unlocking Canada’s Access to Space” player.captivate.fm/episode/6e4c0b9a-b295-4fc6-9bc7-3f4cd593f081

Find Out More about DAIR

• Website: dairhub.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/dairhub
• Instagram: instagram.com/dairhub
• Facebook: facebook.com/DAIRHub

Find Out More About Trillium

• Trillium website: trilliummfg.ca
• Trillium GIS: trilliumgis.ca
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/trilliummfg
• X/Twitter: x.com/TrilliumMfg
• Instagram: instagram.com/trilliummfg
• Facebook: facebook.com/trilliummfg
• Old ‘Making it in Ontario’ Episodes: https://soundcloud.com/making-it-in-ontario-past

About the Making it in Ontario Podcast

Making it in Ontario is your window into what's next in manufacturing. Ontario’s economy depends on manufacturing, but the latest research reveals concerning trends that could undermine the sector’s strength—if we don’t address them. Join us as we talk to CEOs and other leaders at the forefront of the sector about productivity, strategy, talent markets and career opportunities, and the role of manufacturing in a prosperous and sustainable future.

This podcast is an initiative of the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing. It is produced by Storied Places Media.