Auburn joins Alabama delegation to advance aerospace future at international airshow

For aerospace companies looking to expand or relocate to Alabama, access to a highly trained workforce is at the top of the list. That’s why Auburn leaders joined the Alabama delegation at the recent Farnborough International Airshow outside London, highlighting the education and research ecosystem that creates a strong talent pipeline.

“We are laser-focused on developing the talent and technologies that will help us reshore manufacturing and develop new advanced manufacturing enterprises in Alabama—strengthening Alabama's economy and improving our quality of life," said Auburn senior vice president for research and economic development Steve Taylor.

Taylor and Jonathan Pettus, executive director of the Auburn University Applied Research Institute, met with aerospace leaders to showcase Auburn's engineering, science and business programs. They also highlighted the university's applied research capabilities, including technical R&D, advanced manufacturing and testing services that help government and industry solve complex engineering challenges. Just as importantly, the meetings created opportunities to connect Auburn students and graduates with internships, careers and future research collaborations around the world.

The Auburn leaders joined Doncasters, a superalloy manufacturer, at the announcement of its expansion in Alabama with a new, $50-million Auburn advanced manufacturing facility expected to employee 70 people within three years.

Members of the delegation also had the opportunity to tour a GE Aerospace jet featuring the company’s latest advances in hybrid electric propulsion technology. Like Auburn’s connection to Farnborough itself, the university’s partnership with GE similarly dates back many years, with workforce development ties in place since the 2015 opening of the company’s $50-million advanced manufacturing facility in Auburn, where jet propulsion components are made.

“Recruiting new manufacturing industries to Alabama is a team effort, and Auburn is proud to be a part of this effort,” Taylor added.

Established in 1948, the Farnborough International Airshow is held in even-numbered years and welcomes over 100,000 attendees for aerospace technology exhibitions and networking opportunities. Traditionally, representatives from Auburn have attended both the Farnborough event and the biennial International Paris Air Show, to highlight the university’s vital role in workforce development.