As part of our commitment to propelling industry growth and nurturing the next generation of leaders in the aerospace sector, the Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) proudly announced the inauguration of the Promising Entrepreneurs Programme (PEP) at its 20th Anniversary Gala dinner on 9 November. Tailored by AAIS, the PEP is a year-long programme that aims to provide next-generation SME leaders with the essential knowledge and skills to navigate the aerospace market and landscape.

Singapore’s aerospace cluster is among the most developed in the region, offering promising opportunities for  SMEs. Nevertheless, it demands a high level of technical and business capabilities from its suppliers. Recognising this, the PEP was conceived to equip SME leaders with the necessary tools to understand, explore, and grow their businesses into the aerospace segments. These leaders, who are second, third, or fourth-generation members of family-owned businesses, either have taken over or are being prepared to take over the reins of their companies, and are actively exploring new capabilities, approaches, and markets.

Going beyond theory, the PEP offers an immersive journey with industry visits, workshops, and curated activities for participants to gain an understanding and appreciation for the range of opportunities in the industry and network with OEMs, MNCs and fellow young leaders. Dr Koh Pak Keng, an entrepreneur and cold-spray technology expert, leads the programme, sharing his insights and experiences. The PEP will also be supported by Transfingo Group. Mr Kelvin Chung, its founder and Group Managing Director, is supportive of fostering the development of fellow SMEs in the spirit of mutual growth and advancement of the aerospace sector.

The inaugural batch of the PEP includes a diverse group of SMEs, each contributing a unique perspective to the programme:

  1. Chee Fatt Co (Pte) Ltd
  2. Chemicals and Machinery Pte Ltd
  3. Chemtron Pte Ltd
  4. Fong Lee Metal Industries Pte Ltd
  5. KBG Contract Machining Pte Ltd
  6. Metalcool Pte Ltd
  7. Metall-Treat Industries Pte Ltd
  8. Sanxing Pte Ltd

The PEP is just one example of how AAIS adds value to the aerospace industry, and we are excited about the positive impact it will have on the participants and in advancing the competitiveness of the industry as a whole.

Launch of the Promising Entrepreneurs Programme at the AAIS 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner with next generation SME leaders  – (2nd from left) Mr Tony Moochala, Chemtron;
(3rd from left) Mr Kwan Wai Yew, Chemicals & Machinery; 
(5th from right) Mr Sean Wei Kwek, KBG Contract Machining; and (4th from right) Mr Kenneth Chan, Metalcool. 

Minister of State Mr Alvin Tan interacting with participants of the PEP.