Central Okanagan politicians tour local aerospace and technology industries – Kelowna News

Photo: RDKO

The Okanagan’s technology and aerospace industry was showcased to regional leaders in Kelowna last week.

Leaders from the Central Okanagan Regional District, in collaboration with Tourism Kelowna and Accelerate Okanagan, visited Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing Corporation and Accelerate Okanagan for a first-hand look at the technology and aerospace sectors.

Study tours are a staple of the tourism and hospitality industry and provide elected officials and partners with the opportunity to connect with sector leaders, RDCO said.

“We have learned how interconnected these businesses are, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to create a dynamic hub of innovation, talent and growth in these thriving industries,” says Blair Ireland, RDCO Chairman of the Board.

The tour provided participants with insight into the opportunities, challenges and developments of these two sectors in the Central Okanagan.

“Sharing the innovative work done at AEM has been an invaluable experience,” said Taylor Wiley, chief operating officer of Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing.

“By working together, we can continue to strengthen AEM’s foundation of quality avionics solutions that are manufactured locally and distributed globally.”

The Central Okanagan’s technology sector plays a vital role in the regional economy, generating almost $3.01 billion annually, supporting 5,517 jobs in various subsectors such as software as a service, artificial intelligence, animation and agtech.

“As of 2023, there are 467 technology businesses operating in the Central Okanagan, generating significant economic growth,” says Brea Lake, CEO of Accelerate Okanagan.

“This exchange of ideas and innovation within the community provides an opportunity for our elected officials and community partners to offer meaningful support and advocacy for this vital sector.”