HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — GE Aerospace has plans to invest $650 million in its manufacturing facilities and supply chain this year. This move aims to ramp up production and enhance quality to better serve its commercial and defense customers. Of the $650 million investment, the Huntsville location is set to receive a significant boost. With an allocation of $16.8 million, the site will see upgrades in machinery for the production of narrowbody and widebody aircraft engines, as well as investments in quality testing equipment and facility enhancements.
“As GE Aerospace prepares to become a standalone company this spring, we are making significant investments in the future of flight and in the dozens of communities and supplier partners helping us build it,” said H. Lawrence Culp, Jr., Chairman and CEO of GE and CEO of GE Aerospace. “These investments are part of the next chapter for GE Aerospace, supporting cutting-edge equipment and safety enhancements that will help us meet our customers’ growing needs.”
Another Alabama site is set for upgrades with the investment. The Auburn facility will also get enhancements in manufacturing technology. This $54 million investment will introduce additional 3D printing machines and tooling to augment the production of military rotorcraft engine components, as well as engines for narrowbody and widebody commercial aircraft. It is expected to not only improve production but also create job opportunities.
“This is an investment in the future of manufacturing, ensuring we can continue producing high-quality, cutting-edge engines and services while meeting customer demand,” said Mike Kauffman, GE Aerospace Supply Chain Vice President.
The funds being sent to Huntsville is part of a larger investment plan that includes a plan for new machines, inspection equipment, building upgrades, and safety enhancements across GE Aerospace facilities nationwide.
"Materials changing the future of aviation start right here. GE Aerospace is investing significantly in Huntsville to produce more critical materials used in commercial and military engines and to build a strong future as we become a independent company," said Stephen French, site leader for GE Aerospace Huntsville.
In addition to these investments, GE Aerospace is actively recruiting over 1,000 employees for open positions at its U.S. factories.
