Twin Cities Aerospace Network Brings Innovators Together in Golden Valley

Twin Cities Aerospace Network Brings Innovators Together in Golden Valley

Golden Valley, MN — August 27, 2025

The Twin Cities’ growing aerospace community came together at Under Pressure Brewing in Golden Valley last week, where engineers, entrepreneurs, and job seekers gathered for the Twin Cities Aerospace Network’s monthly networking event.

The event highlighted the region’s dynamic mix of startups, established companies, and independent professionals who see Minnesota as a fertile ground for innovation in aviation and aerospace.

Building the Brains Behind Aerospace Systems

Among the attendees was Dan, a representative from Beacon EmbeddedWorks, a Minnesota company specializing in embedded computing solutions. He explained that while Beacon doesn’t build end products, its technology powers many critical aerospace and defense systems.

“We don’t make the final product—we make the computer engines that others integrate into military and aerospace systems,” Dan said. “Our focus is on quality, reliability, and meeting the highest regulatory standards.”

Dan, who has attended multiple Twin Cities Aerospace Network events, said the intimate size of the gatherings allows for meaningful conversations.

“Instead of a conference with 400 people, here you’re in a room of 50. It’s easy to connect, exchange ideas, and build relationships,” he said.

Beacon currently has openings primarily for engineers, though Dan said future growth may expand into sales roles.

Revolutionizing General Aviation with AI

Another standout voice was Jacob “Jake” Baumler, founder of Coach Air Aviation Intelligence, a Minnesota startup that is developing a patent-pending AI platform to transform general aviation.

Coach Air’s mission is ambitious: to become the central intelligence hub for private and business aviation, urban air mobility, and helicopter operations.

“We want to eliminate 40 percent of illegal charters and reduce fraud in the industry by more than a billion dollars,” Bojay explained. “No one else has tackled this challenge at this scale.”

Though currently a team of four, Bojay envisions rapid growth: 200 employees in the next year, and thousands over the next decade. He’s looking for talent across disciplines—from programmers to accountants—as well as investors and strategic partners.

“We’re building on values of integrity, honesty, trust, humility, and accountability,” he said. “Minnesota has the people and the talent to make this vision a reality.”

Helping Manufacturers Work Smarter

Not all attendees were focused on aerospace hardware. Sean Kratz, co-founder of Parallax Insights, is applying continuous improvement methods to small and mid-sized manufacturers.

Launched a year ago, the firm helps companies optimize production processes, cut waste, and improve efficiency.

“Owners are often overwhelmed, constantly fighting fires just to keep up,” Kratz said. “We go in, talk to people on the shop floor, and help put systems in place that reduce chaos and improve quality of life for both owners and employees.”

Rather than long, costly engagements, Parallax Insights tailors short, impactful interventions—often just a week on-site. Kratz said the firm’s ultimate mission is simple: helping smaller manufacturers thrive.

Supplying the Heat Behind Aviation Manufacturing

Joe, an engineer with Entherm, attended to highlight his company’s role in aerospace supply chains. Entherm distributes heating elements used in processes such as plastic molding, fluid heating, curing, and annealing—critical steps in aerospace manufacturing.

“Anywhere heat is used in manufacturing, we’re involved,” Joe said. “The people in this network are working on great puzzles and projects, and it’s inspiring to hear what others are building.”

Joe, a repeat attendee, noted that the value of the network grows over time.

“Once you’ve been a few times, you start to recognize faces and make connections. It’s about building long-term relationships.”

Experienced Engineer Seeking New Opportunities

Not everyone at the event came representing a company. Kevin Bittney, an industrial engineering manager with 15 years of experience at companies including Honda, Rolls-Royce Aerospace, and Medtronic, attended while actively seeking new opportunities.

Bittney said the current job market has been difficult, even for experienced professionals, but gatherings like this help broaden professional networks.

“Ideally, I’d like to stay in the Twin Cities, but I’m open to relocating for the right role,” he said. “Events like this give me a chance to meet people face-to-face, which is increasingly rare in today’s market.”

A Growing Nonprofit Network

The event was hosted by Jeff, one of the organizers of the Twin Cities Aerospace Network, which recently formalized its status as a nonprofit. With more than 600 members, the group is expanding its mission to not only foster connections but also provide scholarships, grants, and other community support.

Jeff Johnson: Founder, Twin Cities Aerospace Network

Jeff announced the group’s next major event:

“On September 11, we’re partnering with the Defense Alliance to host an Industry Connect at Malcolm Yards in Minneapolis. The Chief Operating Officer of the Metropolitan Airports Commission will be our guest speaker. The event is free, with appetizers provided, and open to everyone—not just aerospace insiders.”

Looking Ahead

From startups revolutionizing aviation with AI to firms optimizing manufacturing processes and supplying vital components, the Twin Cities Aerospace Network has become a proving ground for ideas and partnerships.

Whether attendees are launching businesses, seeking investors, or simply connecting with peers, the community is carving out a space for Minnesota in the future of aviation and aerospace innovation.

MinneapoliMedia