NAmTrans News

Updates from the North American Center of Excellence for Transportation Equipment

Promoting our Region in Québec at AeroMart and IMPULSION MTL

NAmTrans is heading to Québec this spring for two major transit industry-focused events— AeroMart Montreal and IMPULSION MTL.

At AeroMart Montreal (March 25-27), we will be exhibiting at Booth 526, showcasing the North Country’s thriving transportation and aerospace sectors.

This event brings together global aerospace suppliers, making it a great opportunity to connect with companies interested in establishing a presence in the greater Plattsburgh, NY area. We will also be joined at the event by our good friends from Norsk Titanium so if you are at the event - stop by our booths and say hello!

Meanwhile, at IMPULSION MTL (March 31 - April 1), hosted by our partners at Propulsion Quebec, NAmTrans/Chamber staff will attend as invited guests, including exclusive VIP lunch sessions with key players in sustainable mobility.

With IMPULSION focused on innovation in electrified transportation, it’s the perfect setting to highlight our region’s growing transportation equipment cluster.

At both events, we’ll be spreading the word about the North Country’s strong manufacturing

base, skilled workforce, and easy access to the U.S. market. These connections help strengthen our region’s economic ties with Quebec and open doors for new business opportunities.

Stay tuned for updates from our team on the road!

For more details, contact Joel Wood at joel@northcountrychamber.com.

Supporting Micro Bird's Training Needs

As Micro Bird prepares to launch operations in Plattsburgh, taking over the former Nova Bus facility, NAmTrans and the North Country Chamber of Commerce are proud to support their workforce training efforts.

Through our On-the-Job Training (OJT) program, we are assisting with the transition of ten former Nova Bus employees, helping them gain the skills needed to build Micro Bird buses.

These employees are currently training at Micro Bird’s Drummondville facility, working alongside experienced team members to master the manufacturing process.

The OJT program not only provides structured training but also includes wage reimbursement, covering 50% of their base salaries over the 10-week period.

This initiative is made possible through a grant from the Green Economy Fund (GEF), along with vital support from our partners at TDC and the Workforce Development Institute (WDI).

Together, we are ensuring a strong foundation for Micro Bird’s success in the North Country.

Cluster News

Welcoming Heart Aerospace to the Cluster

We are thrilled to welcome Heart Aerospace as the newest member of the North Country Chamber of Commerce and NAmTrans Cluster!

A leader in sustainable aviation, Heart Aerospace is pioneering the development of hybrid-electric regional aircraft, including the ES-30—a 30-seat hybrid-electric airplane designed to revolutionize regional air travel with lower emissions and operating costs.

As they establish flight test operations at Plattsburgh International Airport, we are working on multiple fronts to support their success. From workforce development initiatives, to helping navigate local resources and fostering industry connections, we are committed to ensuring Heart Aerospace thrives in our region.

Their presence marks an exciting step forward for the North Country’s growing aerospace sector, and we look forward to supporting their innovation and expansion in the years to come. Stay tuned for more updates!

Visit Heart Aerospace's Website

Plastitel Expands in Québec with Support from Canadian Govn't

Plastitel, a Quebec-based thermoforming specialist with a site in Chazy NY, is set for significant growth at their Quebec plant thanks to new funding from the Canadian government.

The company, which specializes in high-quality plastic components for industries like medical, aerospace, and transportation, will use this investment to enhance automation, boost productivity, and create new jobs.

This expansion underscores the importance of advanced manufacturing in the North American supply chain, and we are excited to see Plastitel’s continued success.

As a valued regional partner, their growth strengthens the broader transportation and aerospace ecosystem, benefiting manufacturers on both sides of the border.

BAE Systems Expands in Endicott, Boosting Aircraft Electrification

BAE Systems is investing $65 million to expand its Endicott, NY operations, adding up to 134 new jobs and advancing aircraft electrification. This growth supports the development of electric propulsion and power management systems for commercial and military aircraft.

With BAE's engagement with the NAmTrans Cluster and Endicott’s proximity to Plattsburgh, this expansion strengthens regional aerospace connections and supply chains. We’re excited to see BAE Systems drive innovation in sustainable aviation!

Save the Date: Upcoming Transit Events in 2025

AeroMart Montréal

When: March 25-27, 2025

Where: Palais des Congrès de Montréal

Why: AeroMart connects OEMs and their Tier 1 & 2 suppliers with manufacturers and service providers from both civil and defense aviation through a series of individually tailored B2B meetings.

Learn More & Register

Smart & Sustainable Mobility Week

When: May 13-15, 2025

Where: City of Philadelphia on May 13th; Newark Liberty Int'l Airport in NJ on May 14th; and NYC Dept of Parks & Recreation on May 15th

Why: Smart & Sustainable Mobility Week is organized by Délégation générale du Québec à New York for engaging presentations and valuable networking opportunities with Québec’s cutting-edge solutions.

Learn More

APTA TRANSform Conference

When: September 14-17, 2025

Where: Omni & Boston Convention & Exhibition Center - Boston, MA

Why: APTA's TRANSform Conference is the flagship event for public transportation professionals to engage in workshops, join tours, and network with colleagues.

Learn More & Register

NYPTA 2025 Annual Conference

When: October 27-29, 2025

Where: Saratoga City Center - Saratoga Springs, NY

Why: The New York Public Transit Association’s Conference is the largest gathering of public transportation managers and professionals in New York State. Transit professionals from across the state come to the conference each year to learn and preview the latest innovative products and services.

Learn More & Register

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To learn more about the benefits and opportunities, contact Joel at (518) 563-1000 or joel@northcountrychamber.com.

NYS Assemblyman D. Billy Jones

The North Country Chamber of Commerce

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