Boeing announced today that it plans to move several hundred positions from other sites to Huntsville as it simplifies its footprint in the Strategic Defense & Intelligence Systems division.
Boeing announced that it is taking steps to operate its Defense, Space & Security business more efficiently through facility consolidations and work movements that will increase employment at several locations including Huntsville. The jobs will be in the areas of engineering, advanced manufacturing and administrative support. This consolidation of work into Huntsville is part of Boeing’s ongoing efforts to make the best use of resources and talent as well as grow in the global aerospace market.
“In order to push ourselves farther and win more business, we need to make the most of our resources and talent,” said Leanne Caret, president and CEO, Defense, Space & Security. “These steps will help us be a stronger partner for our customers worldwide. Making better use of our facilities will enhance efficiency and promote greater collaboration. This will help drive our global growth in Boeing’s second century.”
Governor Bentley responded positively to the news. “Since Boeing first came to Alabama in 1962 joining our efforts to put man on the moon, our partnership has been a strong one and it continues to grow,” Governor Bentley said. “A University of Alabama study found that Boeing’s presence in the state sustains nearly 8,400 direct and indirect jobs across Alabama. We look forward to a long relationship with Boeing and ensuring their continued growth and success.”
Dale Strong, Madison County Commission Chairman, said, “This Boeing announcement today of 400 additional jobs in Madison County, Alabama once again highlights Boeing’s 100 year history to our Nation’s defense and intelligence sectors. These 400 jobs will take Boeing’s footprint to just over 3100 jobs in Alabama. This only furthers their commitment to our region and once again shows that Madison County is perfectly positioned in every aspect related to missile defense, space and National security.”
Huntsville mayor Tommy Battle is also enthusiastic about the announcement. “Boeing’s announcement reinforces our strategic pivot back to research and development after achieving much success in advanced manufacturing. Huntsville is a knowledge based economy and Boeing continues to invest here because our talent pool matches the needs of their workforce requirements. Boeing has been a tremendous corporate partner, and we are thrilled to play an important role in the company’s ability to create greater efficiencies. It is Huntsville’s talent that will help Boeing meet the needs of the warfighter and, in turn, help secure our nation and that of our allies.”
Boeing says they expect to have the realignment and job movements completed by the end of 2020.
– information complied from various sources including Governor Bentley’s office
