ROME—Automation firm Comau and aerospace supplier Leonardo S.p.A. are working together to develop self-adaptive robotic technology that can autonomously inspect helicopter blades up to 7 meters long.

BREMERTON, WA—Inventech Marine Solutions, a Bremerton manufacturer that builds boats for the U.S. Coast Guard, other government agencies, and private owners all over the world, is expanding its manufacturing facility. Recent plans include expanding to house a 60,000-square-foot manufacturing facility currently under construction west of the Bremerton National Airport.

ELMHURST, IL—Global sales of cordless power tools are expected to increase from $12.5 billion in 2022 to more than $16.9 billion in 2027, representing a compound annual growth rate of 4.5 percent, according to market research firm Technavio.

EL MARQUÉS, Mexico—Nexteer Automotive has broken ground on its new Mexico Technical Center here. 

TUCSON, AZ—American Battery Factory (ABF), a manufacturer of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, has selected Lead Intelligent Equipment to supply custom automation equipment for its upcoming gigafactory here. 

OMAHA, NE—Manufacturers can attract new workers by offering better relocation benefits.

NITRA, Slovakia—On March 27, KleinVision, the Slovakia-based developer of the world's first certified flying car, the AirCar, announced a manufacturing agreement. 

ARLINGTON, VA— On Monday, March 26th, Boeing announced CEO Dave Calhoun will be stepping down at the end of 2024. As such, a search for a new chief executive is underway at Boeing.

GE Aerospace plans to invest more than $650 million into its manufacturing facilities and supply chain during 2024 to improve production and strengthen quality to better support its commercial and defense customers. Nearly $550 million will go to its U.S. facilities and supplier partners.

NASHVILLE, TN—Schneider Electric recently announced the company is expanding its manufacturing presence in Middle Tennessee. Schneider Electric will create 355 new jobs in Mt. Juliet as the company locates a new facility on Maddox Road in Wilson County. Additionally, Schneider Electric plans to expand in Smyrna with 100 new jobs at its Rutherford County location. Together, both projects represent a total investment of approximately $85 million.