GE Aerospace announced a nearly $53 million investment to purchase new equipment and add more than 35,000 square feet to its facility West Jefferson, North Carolina.
The company expects the project to boost capacity for in-demand narrowbody aircraft engines and create more than 40 jobs. It will also support hiring for multiple roles, including apprentice machinists and inspectors, as well as engineers.
GE Aerospace's West Jefferson site produces critical parts used in CFM LEAP engines, including rotating parts, blisks, high pressure turbines and spools.
The $53M investment will cover three years with the support of a $100,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund. Ashe County, Ashe County Job Development Inc. and the Town of West Jefferson will contribute $1 million in grants as well.
GE Aerospace employs about 2,000 workers across four locations in North Carolina. The West Jefferson expansion adds to the company's previously announced plans to invest more than $100 million into its North Carolina sites.
According to GE Aerospace officials, the company's technology powers three-fourths of commercial flights and two-thirds of U.S. military combat aircraft and helicopters.
