Park Aerospace Investing $65 Million In New Tulsa Manufacturing Facility

photo credit/Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Park Aerospace Investing $65 Million In New Tulsa Manufacturing Facility

Park Aerospace is making a major investment in Oklahoma's growing aerospace industry, announcing plans to build a $65 million advanced composites manufacturing facility at Tulsa International Airport.

The project will bring more than 100 new jobs to Tulsa and further strengthen Oklahoma's position as one of the nation's fastest-growing aerospace manufacturing hubs. State and local leaders announced the expansion during the Farnborough International Airshow in Hampshire, England, where Oklahoma has been promoting the state's aerospace industry to companies from around the world.

Park Aerospace Chooses Tulsa For Major Expansion

Park Aerospace Corp., a company with more than 70 years in business and over five decades serving the aerospace industry, will construct the new manufacturing facility on 18 acres within the North Development Area at Tulsa International Airport.

Construction is expected to begin soon, with the facility scheduled for completion in 2028.

Once operational, the plant is expected to employ more than 100 workers manufacturing advanced composite materials used in commercial aircraft, military aviation, spacecraft, rocket motors, unmanned aerial vehicles and jet engines.

"Thank you, Oklahoma, thank you, Tulsa, and thank you, Tulsa International Airport, for welcoming Park Aerospace to your state, your community and your wonderful airport," said Brian Shore, Chairman and CEO of Park Aerospace. "Our new home at the Tulsa International Airport represents an exciting new beginning for our Company."

The investment was announced in partnership with the State of Oklahoma during the international aerospace conference, where economic development officials continue recruiting companies to expand into Oklahoma.

Tulsa's Aerospace Industry Continues Rapid Growth

The announcement adds another major name to Oklahoma's aerospace industry, which has experienced significant growth in recent years.

According to Tulsa International Airport, the airport has welcomed several major aerospace investments this year, including expansions by Agile Space Industries, Quantum Space and longtime tenant Lufthansa Technik Component Services.

Airport officials say Tulsa continues attracting aerospace manufacturers because of its established aviation infrastructure, skilled workforce and strong educational pipeline that prepares students for careers in aviation, engineering and advanced manufacturing.

"Companies don't choose a location simply because land is available," said Alexis Higgins, CEO of the Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust. "They choose places where they can find talent, infrastructure and partners who are invested in their success."

With more than 700 acres available for future development, airport leaders believe Tulsa remains well-positioned to attract additional aerospace projects in the coming years.

Oklahoma Leaders Say Investment Strengthens State Economy

Governor Kevin Stitt called the project another example of Oklahoma's growing reputation in aerospace manufacturing.

"This investment is another powerful example of Oklahoma's aerospace industry continuing to grow and compete on a global stage," Stitt said. "Park Aerospace's decision to expand in Tulsa reflects the strength of our workforce, our pro-business environment and the momentum we're building as a destination for advanced aerospace manufacturing."

Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols said the investment continues a legacy that has defined the city for generations.

"Tulsa has been an aviation city for generations, and today we're writing the next chapter of that story," Nichols said. "Park Aerospace's investment reflects the confidence global aerospace companies have in our workforce, our business community and our future."

According to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, aerospace remains one of Oklahoma's largest economic sectors, supporting thousands of jobs statewide and generating billions of dollars in annual economic activity. With companies continuing to expand at Tulsa International Airport, officials believe the region's aviation and manufacturing economy will continue growing for years to come.

Source: Oklahoma Department of Commerce

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