OAI Member Spotlight: A Deep Dive into Allen Aircraft's Legacy and Future
The Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) is a nonprofit research institute providing research, tech-based economic development, and workforce development services to the aerospace industry. It also offers a membership association that provides exclusive opportunities for networking and business development. OAI member expertise covers almost every facet of the aerospace industry, including OEMs, parts manufacturing, engineering services, legal assistance, architectural design, and academia. In this month’s OAI Membership Spotlight, we are pleased to feature Allen Aircraft, a 77-year-old supplier to the aerospace industry located in Ravenna, Ohio. Since its inception in 1947, this family-owned enterprise, now led by its fourth generation, combines a proud heritage with innovation. Employing 150 people across four facilities, Allen Aircraft has positioned itself as a key player in the aerospace supply chain. We spoke with Josh Skinner, the business development manager for Allen Aircraft, who has spent 25 years at the company spanning roles in assembly, quality management, and business development. He shared insights about the company’s history, current operations, and future aspirations.
Skinner provided an overview of Allen Aircraft’s vertically integrated operations, which allows it to streamline production and maintain control over critical processes. The company’s main assembly and testing hub handles the production of components while meeting rigorous quality standards. Their state-of-the-art machine shop specializes in precision machining for complex projects. The metal finishing division provides services such as anodizing and painting. This facility not only supports internal production but also serves external clients, offering highly specialized expertise in corrosion resistance and wear protection.
Rounding out the company’s capabilities is its 15,000 square foot state-of-the-art qualification testing facility to verify structural, environmental and functional product performance. Allen Aircraft initially built the facility to conduct in-house advanced vibration, temperature, and fire testing. Now, qualification testing services are offered for external clients seeking alternatives to larger providers.
Engineering excellence is another pillar of Allen Aircraft’s success. The company employs 16 engineers, who design products in-house. While the company’s engineering strength lies in mechanical systems, it is also exploring new opportunities in electronics and advanced level-sensing technologies to meet market demands.
Allen Aircraft’s product portfolio spans a variety of aerospace systems, including fuel system valves, chip detectors, oil-level sensors, hydraulic actuators, and jet pumps. These components serve a wide range of applications, from fuel and inerting systems to hydraulic systems and landing gear. The company produces over 10,000 assemblies each month, a testament to its capacity to meet high-volume demands without compromising quality.
As Allen Aircraft grows, it is well-positioned to sustain its legacy and drive future growth. As a family-owned business rooted in Ohio, Allen Aircraft exemplifies the resilience and ingenuity that define the American aerospace industry, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist to shape a brighter future.
To learn more about Allen Aircraft, contact:
Josh Skinner- Business Development Manager
To learn more about becoming a member of the Ohio Aerospace Institute, contact:
Kim Holizna- Managing Director of Global Development and Programs
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About Parallax Advanced Research & The Ohio Aerospace Institute
Parallax Advanced Research is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute that tackles global challenges through strategic partnerships with government, industry, and academia. It accelerates innovation, addresses critical global issues, and develops groundbreaking ideas with its partners. With offices in Ohio and Virginia, Parallax aims to deliver new solutions and speed them to market. In 2023, Parallax and the Ohio Aerospace Institute formed a collaborative affiliation to drive innovation and technological advancements in Ohio and for the nation. The Ohio Aerospace Institute plays a pivotal role in advancing the aerospace industry in Ohio and the nation by fostering collaborations between universities, aerospace industries, and government organizations, and managing aerospace research, education, and workforce development projects. More information on both organizations can be found at Parallax and OAI websites.