Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net sales for Q4 2024 totaled $28.6 million, a decrease of 20.6% from $36.1 million in Q4 2023 [22] - For the year ended December 31, 2024, net sales were $128.1 million, down 8% from $139.3 million in 2023 [22] - Gross profit for Q4 2024 was $2.8 million, or 9.9% of net sales, compared to $6.8 million, or 18.9% of net sales in Q4 2023 [25] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q4 2024 was a negative $585,000, compared to a positive $3.2 million in Q4 2023 [29] - Year-end 2024 adjusted EBITDA was $2.1 million, down from $8 million in 2023 [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace and defense net sales were negatively impacted by the closure of the Blue Earth facility and transfer of customer programs to Bemidji, leading to unexpected delays [7][24] - Industrial and medical customers faced revenue headwinds due to market softness and inventory reductions [23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company experienced a reduction in customer backlog in Q4 2024 as customers requested shorter lead times with new orders [24] - Inventory levels were $21.6 million as of December 31, 2024, slightly down from $21.7 million in 2023, reflecting a buildup in anticipation of the Blue Earth facility transition [32] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on consolidating its North American footprint and optimizing its facilities to improve long-term EBITDA generation [16] - Investments in core infrastructure and leadership teams are aimed at driving long-term growth [13] - The three-tier global manufacturing strategy across the U.S., Mexico, and China provides flexibility to respond to market dynamics [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expects aerospace and defense business to normalize in the second half of 2025, despite ongoing revenue headwinds in the first half [8] - The company is closely monitoring geopolitical uncertainties and trade policies that may impact operations [11] - Management remains optimistic about future growth and is committed to investments that accelerate long-term growth [15] Other Important Information - The company completed a 30% reduction in lease space at its Maple Grove facility, resulting in annual savings of at least $1.6 million starting in 2025 [12] - The company is focusing on reducing inventory investments in 2025 by several million dollars [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for the aerospace and defense market? - Management expects the aerospace and defense business to return to normal in the second half of 2025, despite current challenges [8] Question: How is the company addressing the impact of tariffs? - The company is monitoring tariff impacts closely and adjusting customer pricing and sourcing strategies as needed [10] Question: What are the company's plans for innovation and technology? - The company is committed to advancing its engineering capabilities and product innovations, particularly in fiber optic technology [39][40]