News Summary
GE Aerospace is set to invest nearly $1 billion across more than two dozen factories in 16 states to boost aircraft engine parts production. Alabama will receive $73 million, focusing on additive manufacturing in Auburn and advanced machinery in Huntsville. This initiative aims to increase workforce capacity, hire 5,000 new employees by 2025, and enhance production quality and efficiency. The investment highlights GE Aerospace’s commitment to both commercial and military aviation sectors.
Alabama – GE Aerospace has announced a significant investment of nearly $1 billion in its manufacturing facilities and supply chains across the United States. This ambitious investment will encompass more than two dozen factories in 16 states and aims to enhance production capabilities and meet the growing demand for high-quality aircraft engine parts.
Alabama will benefit from a total of $73 million in investment from GE Aerospace, with $51 million allocated for its Auburn facility and $22 million for Huntsville. The Auburn location is set to enhance its capabilities in additive manufacturing specifically for both commercial and military aircraft engine parts. This funding will cover the addition of advanced 3D printers, upgrades to existing equipment, and an enhancement of overall manufacturing capacity. The completion of these projects aims to meet strong demand for innovative engine parts utilized in flight.
Cody Manning, site leader for GE Aerospace Auburn, indicated that this investment will contribute positively to the local workforce in Auburn, which currently employs approximately 250 workers. Meanwhile, the Huntsville facility’s $22 million investment will focus on acquiring new machines capable of producing materials used in making ceramic matrix composite (CMC) engine parts, which are recognized for their lightweight and heat-resistant properties. Enhancements in Huntsville are expected to improve manufacturing quality and efficiency.
Stephen French, site leader for GE Aerospace Huntsville, pointed out that advancements in materials developed at the Huntsville facility will serve to enhance the aircraft’s range, efficiency, and power. Beyond these investments, GE Aerospace Foundation has previously donated $100,000 to Calhoun Community College in Huntsville to further develop the local manufacturing workforce.
As part of the broader investment initiative, GE Aerospace has set a goal of hiring around 5,000 new workers across the country by 2025, concentrating on engineering and manufacturing roles. This ramp-up in hiring coincides with the company’s overarching aim to improve safety, delivery times, and the overall quality of aircraft engines. Approximately $500 million from the overall investment will be specifically designated for scaling up capacity at key manufacturing sites, particularly for the production of the narrowbody CFM LEAP engine.
More than $100 million is earmarked for advancing manufacturing techniques and innovative materials, while the company also intends to invest at least $200 million into military engine production. This includes preparations for the T901 helicopter engine and other defense projects, indicating a strong commitment to both commercial and military aviation sectors.
The Auburn site, noted for its focus on additive manufacturing techniques, symbolizes GE Aerospace’s robust investment in innovative technology. Recognized as a leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, GE Aerospace powers a large majority of global commercial flights and the U.S. military’s aircraft fleet. This recent investment not only reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its manufacturing capabilities but also underscores a dedication to bolstering the U.S. economy and workforce.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Alabama News Center
- VoxelMatters
- GE Aerospace – Additive Manufacturing
- 3DPrint
- Encyclopedia Britannica: GE Aerospace
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
