AirBorn, Inc., which manufactures specialized electronics for the aerospace industry, will expand its facility in Lake City Borough, Erie County, which will support the creation and retention of 389 jobs in the region.
The project involves the construction of a 30,000-square-foot extension of its Lake City Borough manufacturing facility and the purchase of machinery and equipment to expand production. AirBorn expects to invest more than $3.7 million in the project, which is expected to create 249 new full-time jobs and retain 140 existing jobs over the next three years.
“AirBorn is proud to be a stable and growing member of the west Erie County community, and we are grateful for the overwhelming support of the Governor and his team on this project,” Jon Nelson, director of operations at AirBorn Lake City, said. “AirBorn designs and builds mission-critical electronic components, and we feel very fortunate to have a solid foundation of professional and quality-minded team members that make a difference in the world every day. This expansion project will enhance AirBorn’s ability to serve our valued customers, at the same time providing rewarding career opportunities for our area and local economy.”
The Department of Community and Economic Development provided AirBorn with a funding proposal for a $500,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $112,050 workforce development grant. The company was also encouraged to apply for an $875,000 low-interest loan through the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority.
The Erie County Redevelopment Authority, the Erie Chamber & Growth Partnership, and the Governor’s Action Team, a group of economic development professionals who report to the governor, worked to coordinate the project.
“Attracting impactful manufacturing investments to the Erie region is critical for our commonwealth,” Gov. Tom Wolf said. “AirBorn’s expansion will make a great impact in the lives of many families in the area, and help Pennsylvania become a leader in innovation. We will continue investing in projects like this to enhance our manufacturing industry and strengthen our economy.”