Advancements in space manufacturing are having significant effects on many sectors in the industry, including satellite systems, deep space exploration, and space infrastructure. One of the companies at the heart of this movement is Spectrum Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, Inc. (Spectrum AMT) a company specializes in high-reliability circuit card assembly and contract manufacturing, supporting critical applications in spaceflight and aerospace industries.
Leading the charge at Spectrum AMT is CEO, Jeff Gilbert, an industry veteran with over 35 years of experience in manufacturing and executive leadership. The Space Insider team had the opportunity to sit down with Jeff at SpaceCom Expo 2025 in Florida this past January where he shared his insights on the quickly evolving space manufacturing landscape. He spoke to the increasing demands for reliability, efficiency, and scalability, along with the regulatory requirements that are becoming more stringent, ensuring that components used in space applications meet rigorous quality and safety standards. These industry-wide shifts are making waves in space manufacturing and reinforcing the need for companies like Spectrum AMT to continuously adapt.
Driving Growth Through AS9100 Certification
One of the company’s latest milestones is achieving AS9100 certification for its Colorado Springs facility. Gilbert emphasized the importance of this certification, stating, “Achieving AS9100 certification is not just about compliance; it demonstrates our commitment to building the most reliable and high-quality products for space applications.” This certification is a critical step in Spectrum AMT’s expansion strategy, reinforcing its commitment to stringent quality management standards required for spaceflight hardware.
“Being ISO certified is already a high standard, but AS9100 adds another level of complexity,” Gilbert explained. “It requires a rigorous evaluation of our processes, ensuring that we can meet the most demanding specifications required for aerospace and spaceflight. It also reassures our customers that we are equipped to handle mission-critical components with the utmost precision.”
The certification enables Spectrum AMT to strengthen relationships with key aerospace players, including Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. Additionally, it has played a role in securing a partnership with D-Orbit USA, the U.S. member company of the Italian space logistics company D-Orbit Group. As part of this partnership, Spectrum will provide material management, PCBA manufacturing, harness manufacturing, and final assembly of D-Orbit USA satellite buses, ensuring high-reliability electronics for their growing U.S. market presence.
Manufacturing Challenges in the Space Industry
As the demand for space-based infrastructure grows, manufacturers face unique challenges, particularly in quality control and supply chain management.
“When you talk about spaceflight, satellite, and deep space, it’s one shot, never fail,” Gilbert said. “High-reliability electronics require rigorous tracking, testing, and documentation. Each component must be traceable from its manufacturing date through its lifecycle.”
A key challenge is the highly regulated supply chain, especially for defense and government contracts. “When we use components in Department of Defense or spaceflight applications, they must come from an approved U.S. manufacturer. This limits the supply chain significantly and makes procurement more complex,” Gilbert noted.
In 2024, Spectrum AMT faced delays due to supply chain bottlenecks, missing shipment targets for the year. Gilbert emphasized that the industry’s reliance on single-source suppliers for critical components increases vulnerability. “There’s a long list of approved vendors, but as those lists shrink over time, it becomes harder to secure the parts we need.”
To mitigate these challenges, the company has taken a proactive approach by expanding its supplier network, implementing stricter quality controls, and working closely with government and industry partners to navigate sourcing restrictions. “We are actively investing in supplier relationships and leveraging our AS9100 certification to demonstrate our reliability and capabilities to key partners,” Gilbert noted. “By focusing on automation and process improvements, we can better predict potential supply chain disruptions and respond swiftly to ensure we meet our commitments.”
Expanding Space Applications and Sustainable Space Operations
The declining cost of satellite launches and improvements in manufacturing efficiency are opening the sector to a wider range of industries beyond traditional government and defense customers. Companies focused on communications, remote sensing, and in-orbit infrastructure are increasingly looking to space as a viable investment.
“We’re seeing an expansion of the customer base,” Gilbert observed. “It’s not just NASA and defense contractors anymore—internet providers and commercial enterprises are becoming key players. As launch costs decrease, space-based services will become more accessible.”
One of the most notable trends is the growing demand for sustainable space operations. With thousands of satellites entering orbit each year, concerns about space debris and long-term infrastructure sustainability are driving innovation. “At some point, there will be enough satellites in orbit that we’ll need to figure out how to sustain them,” Gilbert explained. “Whether that means manufacturing components for space refueling stations, satellite servicing, or other in-orbit logistics, Spectrum AMT is positioning itself to support these initiatives.”
Looking Ahead: Spectrum AMT’s Strategic Priorities
Companies across the space manufacturing sector are working to address supply chain challenges, enhance production capabilities, and meet the growing demand for reliable, cost-effective space hardware. As new players enter the market and existing companies expand their operations, the need for scalable, high-quality manufacturing solutions continues to grow.
Gilbert expressed his enthusiasm about being part of the space tech industry at this pivotal time. “It’s an exciting time to be in the space sector,” he said. “We’re seeing rapid developments in technology, a surge in private-sector investment, and new missions that will push the boundaries of what’s possible. The space industry is no longer just about government contracts—there’s a commercial boom happening, and it’s changing everything.”
As Spectrum AMT scales its operations, it remains committed to staying ahead of industry trends and adapting to new challenges. The company continues to invest in automation, workforce development, and advanced manufacturing facilities. Gilbert emphasized the role of manufacturing partners in supporting the space sector. “Manufacturing is at the core of the space economy. Whether it’s building satellite components, circuit boards, or complete spacecraft, reliable production capabilities are critical to keeping up with deman,” he said. “As the space economy continues to expand, we are committed to delivering the high-reliability solutions that will enable the next generation of missions and technological advancements.”
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