Honeywell investing $84M in Olathe aviation innovation, adding 150+ jobs, ‘dream careers’ for young workers

A s Kansas works to reframe perceptions of the region around its health innovation and biologics industries, corporate and government officials on Friday announced a win for another innovation-driver and “compelling megatrend” for the Sunflower State: the future of aviation.

Honeywell Aerospace Technologies plans to invest $84 million to expand its Olathe manufacturing facility, the company said Friday, noting the project is expected contribute $18.3 million to the local economy within the first six years and create more than 350 “good-paying jobs” in the area.

Of those jobs, more than 150 are set to be permanent positions at the Olathe site.

The 560,000-square-foot facility currently manufactures components for safety and flight control systems as well as technologies to reduce air traffic collisions and weather accidents. The construction and installation of new equipment in Olathe will create 268 one-year jobs and generate nearly $25 million in GDP.

“Expanding this facility will enable the development of a strong and resilient domestic supply chain for next generation avionics and printed circuit board assemblies that our commercial and military customers can rely on,” said Jim Currier, president and CEO of Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. “At Honeywell, we are in constant need of highly skilled employees, particularly in engineering and advanced manufacturing, and our decision to expand one of our U.S.-based facilities is a testament to our confidence in the U.S. economy and its talented workforce.”

U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, were negotiators on and advocates for the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act , which makes reinvigorating American manufacturing a priority for the U.S. government, David said.

“Kansas has a rich history of manufacturing, especially in the aviation sector,” said Davids in a statement released Friday. “Today’s announcement is cause for celebration, not just for the significant number of good-paying jobs the expansion will generate, but also for its role in supporting families, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities. I’m excited for what’s to come in our region and congratulate Honeywell on this expansion.”

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, speaks during an announcement event at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies in Olathe; photo courtesy of Jerry Moran’s Office

Products and services from Honeywell Aerospace Technologies are found on virtually every commercial, defense and space aircraft. The Aerospace Technologies business unit builds aircraft engines, cockpit and cabin electronics, wireless connectivity systems, mechanical components and more. Its hardware and software solutions create more fuel-efficient aircraft, more direct and on-time flights and safer skies and airports.

Friday’s announcement bolsters the state’s reputation within the aviation manufacturing community for quality work, Moran added, offering credit to “the hard-working men and women of Kansas.”

Gov. Laura Kelly, D-Kansas, echoed the sentiment.

“Honeywell’s expanded presence in Kansas underscores what we’ve known all along — our state’s workforce is prepared to meet any challenge,” said Kelly. “The high-tech jobs and opportunities being created will allow even more of our young workers to find their dream careers right here in Kansas.”

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