Magellan Aerospace (Magellan) and the University of Manitoba today unveiled their new Advanced Satellite Integration Facility (or ASIF) at Magellan’s facility in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The facility will support research, development, construction and testing of satellite systems and components.
The facility was constructed in an existing 6,000-square-foot area, large enough to accommodate up to three satellites at various stages of assembly with sufficient ceiling height for high crane lifting requirements. The ASIF is an ISO Class 8 cleanroom facility that will satisfy the requirements of current and future satellite programs initiated by the Government of Canada.
The facility expansion was funded by an investment of $2.4 million from Western Economic Diversification Canada.
Magellan invested $1.5 million which includes $625,000 for the establishment of an Industrial Research Chair in the area of satellite development within the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Manitoba, and contributed to the construction of the facility, multi-year research and development (R&D) and educational funding.
The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and Member of Parliament for Saint Boniface, was present to unveil the new facility. “Our Government recognizes the importance of collaborative research, commercialization and skills development to the overall competitiveness of our economy. The Advanced Satellite Integration Facility will bring together industry expertise, academic skills-development and leading-edge technology to significantly enhance the future growth opportunities and economic spinoff potential for Manitoba’s thriving aerospace industry,” said Minister Glover.
“The University of Manitoba is excited to be working in partnership with Magellan Aerospace and taking the lead on increasing the space technology sector in Western Canada,” said Dr. Digvir Jayas, vice-president (research and international) and Distinguished Professor at the University of Manitoba.
Mr. Don Boitson, Vice President General Manager, Magellan Aerospace, Winnipeg, said “Magellan’s focus in the ASIF partnership goes well beyond the bricks and mortar of this world-class facility. Magellan’s investment in facilities, equipment, university research, and education support over the next five years reflects our commitment to both community and youth education.” He added, “This partnership fosters a very meaningful relationship between academia and industry.”
About the University of Manitoba
The University of Manitoba is western Canada’s first university, founded more than 137 years ago, and located in the heart of the country, we are the region’s largest and only research intensive university offering over 100 degrees, diplomas, and certificates – more than 60 at the undergraduate level including professional disciplines such as medicine, law, and engineering. Our energetic university community is comprised of close to 30,000 students, 8,700 faculty and staff, and 190,000 alumni. Nearly 13 per cent of our current students are international, representing close to 104 countries. The University of Manitoba campuses are located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation. It is home to a thriving community of Indigenous researchers, staff and more than 2,000 First Nations, Métis and Inuit students, including over 150 graduate students — one of the largest Indigenous student bodies in the country.
About Magellan Aerospace
Magellan Aerospace is a global, integrated aerospace company that provides complex assemblies and systems solutions to aircraft and engine manufacturers, and defense and space agencies worldwide. Magellan designs, engineers, and manufactures aeroengine and aerostructure assemblies and components for aerospace markets, advanced products for military and space markets, industrial power generation, and specialty products. Magellan is a public company whose shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: MAL), with operating units throughout Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and Poland.
