The Centre’s Catalysts series shines a light on the diverse organisations, from tenants and innovators to collaborators and members, who fuel our ecosystem here at iAero.
We explore the unique capabilities and expertise they bring, demonstrating the collective power that makes our Centre a hub of opportunity and growth. Their success is our success, and their contributions are the reason to join our vibrant community and support the growth of the aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and engineering sectors in Somerset.
Next in the series is ADS South West.
ADS is the national trade association for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, and represents over 2,000 businesses across the UK ranging from global manufacturers and primes, innovative SMEs, start-ups, service providers, and academia. ADS South West is the regional office of the national trade body, covering Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Bristol & Bath, Wiltshire, and Gloucestershire. ADS South West provides a platform for organisations to build connections, share knowledge, and identify opportunities that support growth across the region.
According to ADS’ latest facts & figures, the South West employees 76,000 people across ADS’ sectors (representing 16% of the UK footprint), generates £17.7bn turnover and contributes £7.3bn of value add to the UK economy. The South West is the UK’s largest regional contributor to the aerospace and defence sectors.
Key Projects & Successes
Through a year-round programme of events, networking opportunities, business development activities and sector engagement, ADS South West supports members with a platform to strengthen relationships, learn from industry leaders, and stay informed regarding opportunities and challenges shaping their sectors. ADS’ membership creates valuable opportunities to raise business visibility, develop collaborations and become part of a strong community that is working collectively to support the long-term success of UK industry.
ADS South West & iAero
Working closely with partners including the iAero Centre, ADS South West is committed to bringing together industry, academia, and innovators to support technological advancement, skills development and business growth across the region. Through collaboration, both organisations play an important role in strengthening the South West’s aerospace, defence and advanced engineering ecosystem and helping businesses access new opportunities.
Ed Raggett, ADS South West Director, commented: “Our collaboration with the iAero Centre reflects a shared commitment to supporting the aerospace and advanced engineering community across the South West. By bringing together industry, academia and innovators, we can create valuable opportunities for businesses to connect, collaborate, and grow. Partnerships like this help strengthen regional capability, encourage innovation and ensure the South West continues to be recognised as a leading centre for aerospace excellence.”
He added further: “A recent example of collaboration between iAero and ADS South West, was the delivery of ADS’ inaugural Aircraft Interiors Conference. The conference explored emerging requirements, shared practical insights, and identified opportunities for collaboration and growth across both civil aerospace and defence markets. iAero provided the ideal venue to bring together members for the conference, enabling valuable networking for all delegates.”