The investment is intended to increase production capacity, support workforce growth and broaden the range of manufacturing activities carried out at the site. It represents the next phase of an expansion programme announced earlier this year.
New capabilities will include turning operations, surface finishing and non-destructive testing. GKN Aerospace said bringing more manufacturing processes on site should improve efficiency and reduce lead times.
“Today marks an important milestone for our North Charlestown site and for GKN Aerospace’s U.S. operations,” said Joakim Andersson, President Engines at GKN Aerospace. “This investment will help us grow our capacity in the U.S. as demand from our engines customers continues to rise. It is an important step as we strengthen our ability to support customers and grow our business for the long term.”
The additional space is also expected to support expansion of the North Charlestown workforce and provide greater flexibility as customer requirements evolve. GKN Aerospace said the investment will allow employees to develop skills across a wider range of manufacturing processes.
“This expansion gives us the space to grow our team, increase production capacity and broaden our capabilities,” said Tomas Lindsta, Senior Vice President, OE Product Solutions at GKN Aerospace. “By bringing more manufacturing processes in-house, we can further develop our employees’ skills, gain greater flexibility and respond more effectively to our customers’ evolving needs as our business continues to grow.”
New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte said the project demonstrated the connection between industrial investment and workforce development in the state’s aerospace and defence sector. “New Hampshire is proud to be a leader in the aerospace and defense industry, and GKN Aerospace’s expansion here is a testament to what is possible when industry investment and workforce development come together.”
“We will continue to expand pathways to careers in aerospace and other high-demand fields, ensure our workforce has the skills and training necessary to grow this important industry, and keep New Hampshire a hub for innovation,” Ayotte said. The expanded North Charlestown facility is intended to support future business growth through higher capacity, additional manufacturing capabilities and a larger workforce.
