Looking at the mix of attendees at this weeks SAMPE conference / exhibition in Baltimore it was clear that a subtle but significant shift in the composites sector is underway. Yes the traditional power houses that build high end aerospace hardware remain but this network is rapidly being joined by a new wave of suppliers and engineers targeting much broader markets.
Focused on high volume applications, this cadre has a global footprint which requires very different skill sets adept at handling the challenges and opportunities of operating without everything under one roof. Highly mobile with limited technical, geographic and corporate loyalty, it will be interesting to watch how the two worlds interact – if at all.