GE Aviation Creates Jobs With New Factory
GE Aviation has opened a 300,000-square-foot jet engine factory that will manufacture parts for GE jet engines, which will eventually power commercial and military aircraft. These parts include high-pressure turbine (HPT) airfoils along with precision super-alloy machined parts. The first parts will be delivered later on this year.
The $75 million investment from GE will create hundreds of new jobs in Auburn, Alabama. The plant should initially create 50 new positions but when it reaches full operating capacity that number should jump somewhere between 300-400.
Notable faces in attendance at the ceremony included GE Aviation president and CEO David Joyce, Governor Robert Bentley, Alabama House Speaker Mike Hubbard, and Auburn Mayor Bill Ham, Jr.
Gov. Bentley commented, “The opening of this facility will lead to more good jobs for the people of Alabama. Alabama has the best workforce you can find, and our role in the aviation industry continues to grow. I appreciate the investment GE Aviation is making in Alabama. On the state and local levels, we are committed to helping GE Aviation succeed here in Auburn.”
Mayor Bill Ham Jr. added, “We couldn’t be more excited as GE Aviation opens their doors, providing skilled jobs to our community and a tremendous investment in Auburn and Alabama. I look forward to a longstanding relationship with GE Aviation, and I'm excited that jet engines throughout the world will have parts that are made in Auburn."
GE Aviation decided on Auburn, Alabama, as their new location due to the access to skilled employees along with the close proximity to Alabama’s university system. They have partnered with Alabama Industrial Development Training (AIDT), Southern Union State Community College (SUSCC), Auburn University, and Tuskegee University to help support training programs and internships.
David Joyce, President and CEO of GE Aviation stated, "GE Aviation is thrilled to locate an advanced manufacturing operation in Auburn. The facility will be involved in highly sophisticated manufacturing processes. We are very grateful to the Alabama leadership in supporting GE on this important economic development project."
The new facility in Alabama is expected to propel production rates from 3,600 commercial and military engine deliveries in 2013 to over 3,800 in 2014.
Full story at GE Aviation.