KANSAS CITY - Fiber Dynamics, a Wichita-based company in aerospace composites, and Austrian engineering company FILL have announced a strategic partnership to expand advanced composite manufacturing capabilities in the United States.
The collaboration, supported by Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR), is being called a significant step in reshoring manufacturing and strengthening America’s aerospace supply chain.
The partnership was formally announced at the Air Capital of the World chalet at the Paris Air Show.
“This partnership is about growing the capacity to manufacture right here in the United States,” said Darrin Teeter, Founder and CEO/CTO of Fiber Dynamics. “With FILL’s automation technology and NIAR’s research depth, we’re scaling our advanced processes and tooling capabilities to meet rising demand across aerospace and defense.”
Founded in Wichita more than 34 years ago, Fiber Dynamics is recognized for its lost core tooling methodologies, enabling customers to manufacture integrated composite structures for flight control surfaces, propeller blades and other complex aerospace components in a single molding operation.
In 2024, Fiber Dynamics partnered with FILL USA, Inc., the U.S. Subsidiary of Austria-based FILL GmbH, to help scale the company’s novel manufacturing and tooling processes and deepen its investment in the U.S. market.
FILL’s technology is already making an impact. Through work with NIAR’s Advanced Technologies Lab for Aerospace Systems (ATLAS), the company has developed capabilities for the ultra-high-rate manufacturing of thermoplastic composite structures.
“The collaboration between NIAR, Fiber Dynamics and FILL is a prime example of how local businesses can use the expertise and technology available at NIAR to broaden their scope and capabilities and compete in the global market,” said Dr. John Tomblin, WSU Senior Vice President for Industry and Defense Programs and Executive Director of NIAR.
A key milestone in this international collaboration occurred last week, when a Kansas delegation visited FILL’s Austrian headquarters ahead of the Paris Air Show. Participants included Wichita Mayor Lily Wu, Assistant City Manager Troy Anderson, Sedgwick County Commissioner Pete Meitzner, Kansas Department of Commerce officials and Greater Wichita Partnership leadership.
The delegation toured FILL’s facility, learned about its innovative workforce development model, and demonstrated Wichita’s commitment to global partnerships and economic growth.
“Wichita continues to lead the way in aerospace and advanced manufacturing,” said Mayor Lily Wu. “This partnership is a perfect example of what’s possible when industry, innovation and education unite. It’s a win for our workforce, our economy and our global reputation.”
“This collaboration reflects the kind of momentum we’re seeing across our region,” added Jeff Fluhr, President of the Greater Wichita Partnership. “International companies are increasingly choosing
NIAR is proving to be a powerful catalyst for turning R&D into real-world impact.
This strategic partnership will enable automated manufacturing of composite parts, from fiber to fully-inspected finished parts, for both commercial aerospace and defense applications, as well as other high-performance industries. As FILL USA, Inc. continues to install systems in the U.S. market, the company plans to expand its current brick-and-mortar presence and establish a U.S.-based Technology and Applications Center.
This could reinforce Wichita's position as a global leader in aerospace innovation, and a hub for next-generation composite manufacturing.
Fiber Dynamics, Inc., is a leading manufacturer specializing in Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) composites for the aerospace industry, producing highly integrated and complex structures, including propellers, flight control surfaces, ducts, fairings, and fuselages.
The National Institute for Aviation Research strengthens Wichita State University research capabilities; provides applied learning opportunities for students; and supports the aviation and manufacturing industries while driving innovation and prosperity for the community, region and state. With yearly research expenditures topping $400 million, Wichita State University ranks first in the nation in aerospace R&D according to the National Science Foundation.
The Greater Wichita Partnership works within three key priorities – jobs, talent and quality of place – to accelerate economic growth in Wichita and south-central Kansas.