Georgia is still the number one state for business, and there’s no better time to invest in Columbus, Georgia. This thriving city offers a unique blend of advantages that make it an ideal location for companies across various industries. This is especially true in the aviation industry, where we have a history of success highlighted by two outstanding companies.
Pratt & Whitney
Pratt & Whitney, which specializes in manufacturing aircraft and helicopter engines, has called Columbus home since the mid-1980s. The company’s presence has been a cornerstone of the local economy, contributing to the city’s growth as a significant player in the aerospace industry. Today, Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units.
In a momentous announcement at the 2023 Paris Air Show, Governor Brian P. Kemp revealed that Pratt & Whitney, a renowned Raytheon Technologies business, is set to significantly expand its operations in Columbus, Georgia. This expansion, marked by a $206 million investment, will create nearly 400 new jobs, reinforcing Columbus’s reputation as a premier destination for business growth and innovation.
This expansion will add 81,000 square feet of new engine maintenance space and advanced machinery, enabling the annual overhaul of 400 Geared Turbofan (GTF) engines. Completion is expected by 2028, further solidifying Pratt & Whitney’s role in global aerospace innovation.
Shane Eddy, President of Pratt & Whitney, highlighted the transformation of their Columbus facility, saying, “Our Columbus business has grown from a small manufacturing facility to a large, state-of-the-art manufacturing and overhaul center. This investment will help ensure that we have the infrastructure, machinery, and equipment upgrades in place to provide the best products and services to our customers worldwide.”
McCauley Propellers
With over 85 years of design and manufacturing expertise, McCauley Propellers is one of the world’s largest full-line propeller manufacturers. More than 350,000 aircraft around the world, including over 500 unique models, feature McCauley Propellers – a testament to our continued commitment to excellence.
Since 2002, Columbus has proven to be an ideal location for McCauley, providing a supportive environment for businesses in the aerospace industry. The city’s strategic location, coupled with a favorable business climate, enhances our ability to operate efficiently and effectively. The synergy between Columbus and McCauley Propellers exemplifies a successful partnership that boosts both the local economy and the aerospace industry at large.
“Our skilled workforce of nearly 100 employees in the Columbus area are pivotal in supporting a wide range of aviation markets, including commercial, military, agricultural and commuter airlines, as well as personal and business aviation,” said Heidi McNary, general manager, McCauley Propellers. “With their expertise, we continue to be a pioneer in the general aviation industry.”
The synergy between Columbus and McCauley Propellers exemplifies a successful partnership that boosts both the local economy and the aerospace industry at large.
More on Columbus
Columbus, Georgia is fortunate to have a very diverse industry mix. Longstanding industries like aerospace, fintech, food production, electric vehicles and other advanced manufacturers continue to thrive in this destination. Jerald Mitchell, Columbus Georgia Chamber of Commerce CEO also indicated an eye on other industry sectors. “We are fortunate to have a what it takes to accommodate a wide spectrum of manufacturers. Other industries like robotics will find homes in Columbus because of strong robotics education and retiring military workforce with necessary skills. The Commanding General at Fort Moore will also be the proponent for military robotics for the foreseeable future. Further, our central location to the electric vehicles ecosystem makes us a great choice for that industry.”
As Columbus continues to attract industry leaders, the city remains a beacon of opportunity and growth, driven by its robust corporate footprint, abundant natural resources, unparalleled connectivity, and highly skilled workforce. With a diverse range of industries thriving within its borders, from aerospace and manufacturing to technology and healthcare, Columbus offers a dynamic ecosystem for businesses to flourish. Now is the perfect opportunity for any company to make Columbus, Georgia its new home.