Ohio Aerospace Institute

The Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) is a nonprofit organization established in 1989, with the mission to enhance the aerospace competitiveness of its partners through research, technology development, workforce preparedness, and global network engagement.

Mission and Vision

OAI collaborates with members from government, industry, and academia to accelerate Ohio's aerospace workforce development. Its vision is to be the primary command center for all aerospace initiatives, promoting innovation and advocacy. The institute focuses on connecting Ohio's rich component manufacturing sector with the global aerospace market.

History

Founded as a joint initiative of the NASA Glenn Research Center, the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the State of Ohio, and ten Ohio universities with aerospace-related engineering disciplines, OAI aims to promote aerospace-related research and enhance Ohio's economic competitiveness. The organization facilitates technology transfer to industry and attracts graduate students to Ohio universities.

Structure and Partners

OAI is supported by a consortium of nine Ohio universities, NASA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the state and federal government, and various businesses. This collaborative approach enables graduate students to work with researchers at NASA and Wright-Patterson, while also operating K-12 education programs.

Recent Developments

In 2023, OAI formed a collaborative affiliation with Parallax Advanced Research, another 501(c)(3) nonprofit, to drive innovation and technological advancements. This partnership enhances research capabilities, particularly in AI and data analytics, and supports Ohio companies expanding into the global market.

Global Industrial Engagement

OAI's Global Industrial Engagement capability helps Ohio-based aerospace companies explore global business opportunities, while also supporting international companies seeking to establish business in Ohio. This initiative involves understanding global supply chains, building business connections, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Notable Projects

OAI is involved in the Center for Advanced Air Mobility Initiative (CAAM-I), focusing on supporting small and medium-sized suppliers in the Advanced Air Mobility sector through education, commercialization, and collaboration initiatives. This effort aims to accelerate company growth and job creation in Northeast Ohio.

Financial Overview

Today, OAI has approximately 80 employees and generates over $16 million in annual revenue. The organization's efforts are instrumental in positioning Ohio as a key player in the global aerospace sector.