Asheville – Pratt & Whitney, a prominent player in the aerospace industry, announced plans to expand its manufacturing operations in Buncombe County, a move that is expected to create 325 new jobs and inject $285 million into the local economy. This decision, revealed by Governor Josh Stein, underscores the company’s commitment to meeting the increasing demand for its products and highlights the region’s growing significance in the aerospace sector.
Significance of Pratt & Whitney’s Expansion
The expansion of Pratt & Whitney’s turbine airfoil manufacturing plant marks a pivotal moment for Asheville and its surrounding communities. The facility, which began operations in October 2020, specializes in producing high-tech turbine airfoils, essential components for aircraft engines. With over 90,000 engines currently in service worldwide, Pratt & Whitney serves more than 17,000 customers across 200 countries. The new investment aims to enhance production capacity to meet rising customer demands.
Dan Field, General Manager of Pratt & Whitney in Asheville, expressed gratitude for the support received from state and local officials. “Pratt & Whitney’s continued investment in Asheville is critical to meet the growing demand for our products,” he stated. The expansion will introduce new manufacturing processes and increase overall output, allowing the company to fulfill customer commitments while generating hundreds of new jobs in the community.
The average salary for these new positions is projected at $62,413, significantly higher than Buncombe County’s average wage of $54,416. This increase in employment opportunities is expected to contribute over $20 million annually to the local payroll.
Community and Economic Impact
The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners welcomed the news of Pratt & Whitney’s expansion. Amanda Edwards, Chair of the Board, emphasized the importance of economic resilience following Hurricane Helene. “Economic resilience remains an urgent priority…the commitments announced today will continue to drive the recovery of Buncombe County households,” she remarked. The partnership between private sector entities like Pratt & Whitney and local government is seen as vital for the region’s recovery and growth.
Sabrina Rockoff, Chair of the Economic Development Coalition (EDC) for Asheville-Buncombe County, highlighted the region’s emergence as a hub for aerospace industry growth. “Sustained, responsible and innovative economic growth is the core mission of the Economic Development Coalition,” she noted. The collaboration with Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College (A-B Tech) has been instrumental in meeting staffing goals ahead of schedule.
The expansion aligns with broader strategic goals within the aerospace sector, particularly regarding technological advancements and production capabilities. The Geared Turbo Fan (GTF) Engine Platform, which supports Airbus and Embraer aircraft, represents a significant step toward sustainability in aviation. The GTF engine platform reduces jet fuel consumption by 16%, cuts carbon emissions by up to 50%, and minimizes noise by up to 75%.
In terms of workforce development, Pratt & Whitney has partnered with A-B Tech to ensure that training aligns with new manufacturing processes. The company offers customized training programs and an Employee Scholar Program that covers tuition costs for employees pursuing further education. This initiative aims to enhance skills and promote economic mobility within the community.
Environmental considerations also play a crucial role in Pratt & Whitney’s expansion plans. The company is pursuing LEED Silver Status for its facility, which reflects a commitment to sustainable building practices. Additionally, a closed-loop wastewater system has been implemented at the plant to minimize environmental impact.
As Asheville continues to grow as a center for aerospace manufacturing, Pratt & Whitney’s expansion serves as a testament to the region’s potential. The collaboration between local government, educational institutions, and private industry sets a strong foundation for future economic development.