The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerabilities and structural imbalances of American supply chains particularly in the aerospace industry following decades of short-sighted offshoring practices. In response, SyncFab has been leading the way in supporting the reconstruction of US supply chains through their platform for aerospace supply chain buyers to streamline the procurement of custom manufactured parts. Here are eight major ways how aerospace supply chain buyers who procure parts through SyncFab are supporting the safety, security, integrity, and sustainability of US supply chains and small and medium-sized suppliers.
1. Rebuilding US Supply Chains: SyncFab has been committed to rebuilding US small and medium-sized supplier supply chains since 2013. Through partnerships with the US D.O.E. & D.O.C. Clean Energy Smart Manufacturing Innovation Initiative (CESMII) appointed by the White House and US Departments of Energy and Commerce National Network for Manufacturing Innovation (NNMI), the Cities of San Francisco, San Leandro, Oakland and West Sacramento, SyncFab is working to address the structural supply chain imbalances created by decades of offshoring and promote a more resilient and self-sufficient US supply chain. By using SyncFab, OEM aerospace supply chain buyers can access a network of US-based suppliers and support these smaller suppliers in the aerospace industry. This helps to strengthen the entire supply chain and create a more resilient and sustainable system.
2. Supply Chain Traceability: Greater supply chain traceability is essential for promoting safety, security, and integrity in the aerospace industry. SyncFab’s platform provides end-to-end visibility and traceability, enabling buyers to monitor the entire supply chain and ensure that parts are sourced from reputable suppliers that meet compliance requirements.
3. Supporting Small and Medium-Sized Suppliers: SyncFab’s platform is specifically designed to support small and medium-sized suppliers who may struggle to access larger aerospace OEMs due to barriers such as compliance requirements, lack of resources, and limited visibility. By providing a platform for these suppliers to connect with aerospace buyers, SyncFab is promoting a more diverse and resilient supply chain that can adapt to disruptions and risks.
4. User-Friendly Digital Compliance Solution: Compliance is a critical aspect of the aerospace industry, but it can also be complex and expensive, particularly for smaller suppliers. SyncFab’s platform provides a user-friendly digital compliance solution that enables small and medium-sized suppliers to meet the compliance requirements of aerospace OEMs without the need for costly software licenses.
5. Supporting Machinist Trade Apprenticeships: SyncFab has partnered with the National Tooling and Machinist Association who supports machinist trade apprenticeships for young workers to help replenish an aging manufacturing workforce in the USA. This partnership also promotes greater diversity, sustainability, and innovation in the aerospace supply chain, while also providing opportunities for young workers to develop valuable skills and advance their careers.
6. Blockchain Supply Chain Compliance Solution Innovation: SyncFab is pioneering the use of blockchain technology in the aerospace supply chain, which provides greater security, traceability and compliance. Buyer orders through SyncFab support the design and implementation of blockchain foundational compliance solutions directly in the supply chain, promoting a more trustworthy and accountable supply chain.
7. Increased Supply Chain Resiliency: By sourcing parts domestically through SyncFab, OEM aerospace supply chain buyers can reduce the risk of supply chain disruptions caused by factors such as natural disasters, political instability, and global pandemics. This helps to create a more resilient supply chain that can adapt to unexpected challenges and minimize disruptions
8. Reduced Environmental Impact: The aerospace industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. By promoting domestic sourcing, SyncFab is helping to reduce transportation-related emissions and promote a more sustainable supply chain. This helps to reduce the environmental impact of the aerospace industry and promote a more environmentally friendly system.
In conclusion, SyncFab is playing a vital role in promoting the safety, security, integrity, and sustainability of the US aerospace supply chain. Through their platform, aerospace supply chain buyers can support small and medium-sized suppliers with apprenticeships for an aging workforce and user-friendly aerospace compliance solutions, blockchain supply chain technology design and implementation all while promoting greater traceability and sustainability in the supply chain. These efforts are essential for rebuilding US supply chains and ensuring their resilience in the face of future disruptions and risks.
