Aerospace Assembly

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For decades, automotive engineers have looked to the aerospace industry for new ideas. Back in the 1930s and 1950s, Detroit was inspired by the sleek designs of innovative airplanes such as the Northrop Alpha and the Grumman F4F Wildcat.

It’s planning time. It’s time to define the projects, the resources, and the timelines for next year’s work.

ROLLA, MO—Researchers at Missouri University of Science and Technology are running computer simulations of additive manufacturing processes that could lead to stronger, more durable materials for spacecraft.

MOBILE, AL—Airbus has posted two new managerial job openings for its jetliner assembly plant under construction here.

JACKSONVILLE, FL—Embraer will open its assembly plant here in January. So far, the company has filled 40 of a planned staff of 50 people.

MOBILE, AL—Airbus’ A320 final assembly line leapt from drawing board to reality Thursday with the raising of the project’s first steel column.

WASHINGTON—Many U.S. companies aren’t counted as manufacturers by the government, but are still heavily involved in the manufacturing of goods, according to a new report from the National Bureau of Economic Research. The prevalence of these “factory-less goods producers”—Apple Inc. is a prime example—suggests that the country might have more manufacturing capabilities than official statistics suggest.

ST. AUGUSTINE, FL—Northrop Grumman is spending $80 million to expand its assembly plant here, which makes the Hawkeye support aircraft. The defense contract is expected to add 400 jobs.

MOBILE, AL—Airbus is seeking three liaison engineers for its new assembly plant under construction here.

Last month, my nephew began his first year in college. He hopes someday to get a job in the automotive industry, and I wish him the best of luck.