AirBorn breaks ground on Lake City expansion

AirBorn, Inc., which engineers and manufactures specialized connectors and electronic components for original equipment manufacturers, recently broke ground on an extension of its manufacturing facility in Lake City, Pa.

“AirBorn’s investment in Lake City is a testament both to the workforce and to the partnership we’ve formed with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” AirBorn President and Chief Operating Officer Michael Cole said. “We build innovative electronic solutions for companies large and small. These solutions will not only be made in the USA but made in Lake City.”

Secretary of Community and Economic Development Dennis M. Davin joined AirBorn, Inc. leaders at the groundbreaking ceremony.

“The Wolf administration is committed to making investments like this, that create significant economic impact all across the region, and help Pennsylvania become a leader in innovation,” Davin said. “We applaud AirBorn for their commitment to strengthening the workforce and the communities of Erie.”

The $3.7 million investment will double the size of the manufacturer’s footprint in Erie County and provide up to 249 new jobs to the local community. The project includes the construction of a 30,000-square-foot facility extension as well as the purchase of machinery and equipment to expand production.

In April, Gov. Tom Wolf announced that AirBorn received a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development for a $500,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $112,050 workforce development grant. The Governor’s Action Team coordinated the project with additional coordination through the Erie County Redevelopment Authority and the Erie Chamber and Growth Partnership.

AirBorn is partnering with McCormick Structural Systems on the project, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.