A global leader in jet engine production, GE Aviation has invested nearly $250 million in upgrades of its operations across North Carolina during the past five years – including one the company says is transforming the commercial jet industry.

Responding to demand for jet engines and aircraft systems, GE Aviation improved all four of its North Carolina manufacturing and assembly plants, which together employ nearly 1,700 people and play a key role in production of the record-selling CFM LEAP jet engine.

Whether it’s improving infrastructure, partnering in an advanced training program or other assistance to launch something new – North Carolina always steps up. – Colleen Athans, GE Aviation

The centerpiece of the company’s upgrades is a new 170,000-square-foot plant in Asheville, one of the first in the world using new technology to mass produce ceramic matrix composite (CMC) components for LEAP and other jet engines. The ultra-lightweight components are one-third the weight of the metal parts they replace, while handing temperatures more than 500 degrees hotter, which means better jet performance and lower costs.

With more than 80 facilities around the world, GE Aviation chose North Carolina as home for its breakthrough technology for three key reasons: The state’s nimble manufacturing workforce, desirable quality of life, and business-friendly environment that have helped fuel the company’s success for more than three decades.

“The state and local communities in North Carolina value GE Aviation, and we value them. We appreciate the consistent support we receive for our initiatives to advance our operations,” said Colleen Athans, vice president and general manager of GE Aviation’s global supply chain. “Whether it’s improving infrastructure, partnering in an advanced training program or other assistance to launch something new – North Carolina always steps up.”

“It’s a relationship where everybody wins,’’ said David Spratley, vice president for business recruitment at the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, which links new and expanding companies with resources to establish and grow their businesses in the state. “North Carolina gained good jobs, investment and a committed corporate citizen in GE Aviation, and GE Aviation gained a reliable partner and a great place to live and work.”

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