Arizona aerospace company plans expansion, staff additions
Mar 18, 2016, 11:54 AM
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PHOENIX — An aerospace and defense company has announced expansion plans to its engineering operations in Phoenix area.
GREAT NEWS: @OrbitalATK — world leaders in aerospace & defense — expands in #AZ. Cc: @azcommerce @MayorJohnLewis https://t.co/0u6zZPvAoS
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) March 18, 2016
Orbital ATK, based in Gilbert, said 155 full-time employees would be hired over five years for the plant, which is home to a space-satellite manufacturing facility.
“I am thrilled that one of the largest aerospace and defense companies in the world once again has selected Arizona for its expansion plans, and to support its critical operations,” Gov. Doug Ducey said in a statement.
“Arizona is a major player globally when it comes to aerospace, defense and avionics – and we continue to grow. This is a great partnership.”
The site, one of the largest will gain 60,000 square feet. It opened in 1989 and has 261 workers.
“A company like Orbital ATK could have expanded its operations elsewhere in the country. The fact that they plan to continue to invest in our great community is a testament to our mutually beneficial relationship and Gilbert’s focus on growing STEM occupations in aerospace and manufacturing sectors,” Gilbert Mayor John Lewis said in a statement.
The aerospace and defense sector in the state adds up to $38 billion annually to the Arizona economy and has more than 52,000 workers.
Orbital ATK also has facilities in Chandler and Mesa.
The company is headquartered in Dulles, Virginia.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.