News Summary
RTX Corp. announces a significant expansion at its Asheville facility, promising to create 325 new jobs for the local community. The Pratt & Whitney plant, operational since 2022 and specializing in high-tech turbine airfoils, will see an increase in workforce due to a $4.2 million grant. The average salary for these new positions is projected to be around $62,413, greatly benefiting the local economy, especially following the recovery from Hurricane Helene.
Exciting Expansion in Asheville: Pratt & Whitney to Create 325 Jobs!
Asheville, North Carolina, is buzzing with excitement following an announcement from RTX Corp. (formerly known as Raytheon Technologies) to expand its operations in the area. This decision is set to bring in an impressive 325 new jobs to the Asheville facility, which has been a cornerstone of the community since its establishment.
The timing of this announcement comes just four months after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc across North Carolina, causing significant flooding and damage. The response to this disaster showcased the resilience of the citizens and the overall economy of Western North Carolina. As recovery efforts continue, this expansion is a welcomed boost for the local workforce.
The Growth of Pratt & Whitney in Asheville
The Pratt & Whitney plant, which has been operational in Asheville since 2022, specializes in producing high-tech turbine airfoils that are crucial for aircraft jet engines, including components for the popular A320 family and the cutting-edge F-35 Lightning II. This facility has seen an impressive workforce growth, employing around 900 individuals and surpassing goals set in a state jobs agreement back in 2020.
A twist in the usual process, the North Carolina Economic Investment Committee awarded RTX a second grant of up to $4.2 million as an incentive for this expansion. This grant is contingent upon the company meeting job creation targets by the end of the decade – a promising proposition for both the company and the local economy.
Exciting Job Prospects Ahead
What’s particularly exciting about these new jobs is that they’re expected to pay an average salary of at least $62,413, which is definitely a draw for job-seekers in the region. This expansion isn’t just beneficial for RTX; it’s also expected to have a positive annual payroll impact exceeding $20 million in Buncombe County. That’s money that will circulate throughout the community, benefitting countless local businesses.
Challenges and Considerations
The Bigger Picture
A Bright Outlook for Asheville
As we look ahead, it’s clear that Asheville is on the cusp of exciting times, and the community’s resilience coupled with new opportunities might just set the stage for a prosperous future.
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Additional Resources
- News & Observer
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
- WBTV
- Fox Carolina
- Google Search: Pratt & Whitney Asheville
