Chris Weir Appointed Chief Technology Officer of the Midlands Aerospace Alliance

The Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA) has appointed Chris Weir as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO), a move that reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering the development of next-generation technologies within the aerospace sector. For over 20 years, the MAA has been instrumental in supporting companies across the Midlands as they develop cutting-edge technologies for the aerospace industry and complementary sectors. The new strategic role of CTO is part of the MAA’s forward-looking approach to enhancing its support for businesses along the entire aerospace supply chain.

Mr. Weir brings more than 30 years of senior engineering experience to the role, having worked with some of the industry’s most renowned companies, including Rolls-Royce and Goodrich (now part of Collins Aerospace). His expertise spans the full lifecycle of aerospace, defense, and space equipment systems. Since 2021, he has been supporting the MAA with technology strategy development and delivery. Most recently, he led the “Decarbonising the Midlands Aerospace Cluster” (DMAC) project, which is focused on helping supply chain companies achieve ‘net zero’ emissions by 2050.

As CTO, Mr. Weir will focus on three key priorities:

1. Advocating for Innovation and Technology Investment: Ensuring that the aerospace supply chain receives the necessary investments to stay ahead in a competitive global market.
2. Enabling Global Competitiveness: Helping businesses within the supply chain maintain their competitive edge on the international stage.
3. Accelerating Decarbonisation: Continuing to drive the agenda of decarbonisation within the aerospace supply chain, ensuring the sector is on track to meet sustainability goals.

The aerospace sector in the Midlands holds immense potential for innovation. According to the Aerospace in the Midlands report, co-authored by the Midlands Engine Observatory (MEO) and the MAA in March 2024, the region accounts for 20% of UK aerospace sites, sustains over 100,000 jobs, and generates £5.3 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the economy.

Mr. Weir commented, “I am excited to work with the MAA team and businesses across the region to enhance the global competitiveness of the aerospace supply chain through innovation, while also ensuring that the Midlands remains at the forefront of the global aerospace industry and on track for a sustainable future.”

Andrew Mair, Chief Executive of the MAA, added, “The MAA has a long-standing tradition of supporting companies of all sizes to develop new technologies. We are thrilled to welcome Chris as our CTO and look forward to his leadership in accelerating our work with Midlands aerospace companies. His appointment will help the MAA continue to grow as a key voice contributing to the UK industrial strategy.”

With Mr. Weir at the helm of technology strategy, the MAA is well-positioned to continue driving innovation and sustainability within the Midlands aerospace sector, ensuring its long-term competitiveness and success.