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Gov. Bobby Jindal and Aeroframe Services President and CEO Roger Porter recently announced Aeroframe will further expand its presence at Chennault International Airport, exceeding its previously projected job creation levels.
In February 2010, Gov. Jindal and Aeroframe announced a major expansion at Chennault International Airport, with the company committing to add 300 direct jobs to its existing employment base of 250, which is increasing total employment to 550 jobs. Already 170 new direct jobs have been added, as direct employment now stands 420 employees, not including more than 100 on-site contractor jobs.
With the additional, new expansion announced today, the company's total direct employment will increase to 650 direct jobs within 24 months, 100 more jobs than previously committed, and its total payroll will increase to more than $35.7 million.
Louisiana Economic Development estimates the 100 additional direct jobs will result in 120 new indirect jobs and will generate approximately $8.2 million in new, state tax revenue and nearly $3.2 million in new, local tax revenue over the next 10 years.
"I'm proud to announce that Aeroframe is now planning yet another expansion, which means even more good jobs are on the way for Chennault and the Lake Charles area," said Gov. Jindal. "Thanks to our incredible workforce and world-class Louisiana FastStart program, a growing number of Louisiana companies like Aeroframe are creating thousands of good jobs and expanding their economic impact in our state."
"The state of Louisiana and the Lake Charles community have been great partners for Aeroframe," said Porter. "Together we have built a world-class workforce dedicated to providing the highest quality repair, modification and support services available anywhere. Aeroframe is proud to bring comprehensive solutions to our customers and provide the demanding aircraft maintenance services that are required by the aerospace industry."
The state's customized workforce training solution, Louisiana FastStart™, the Louisiana Workforce Commission and SOWELA Technical Community College are working with Aeroframe to coordinate the company's recruitment and screening processes, develop and deliver detailed training programs for recruits and supervisors, as well as provide significant post-employment classes focused on aviation core skills training.
Louisiana FastStart also is assisting SOWELA Technical Community College with upgrades to its Aviation Maintenance Technology program. The program provides a teacher-learning environment that prepares students for certification by the Federal Aviation Administration in airframe and power plant mechanics. The partnership between Louisiana FastStart and SOWELA Technical Community College will help support the state's growing aviation industry, as well as Aeroframe's expanding workforce needs.
Earlier today, the Louisiana Economic Development Corporation approved the company's application for a $1.5 million loan guarantee, enabling the company to obtain a $3.0 million line of credit to help finance the new expansion. Aeroframe continues to utilize Louisiana's Quality Jobs Program.
Individuals interested in Aeroframe's employment opportunities at Chennault International Airport can submit resumes to careers@aeroframe.com, 337.312.2439 (fax) or by mail, 1945 Merganser, Lake Charles, LA 70615.
Located at Chennault International Airpark in Lake Charles, Aeroframe Services is a privately owned maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) company for large commercial transport aircraft. For more information about Aeroframe visit www.aeroframe.com.
