State aerospace leaders celebrate robust industry growth & ribbon cutting

WINDSOR, CT – Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Catherine Smith joined over 50 VIP guests for a ribbon cutting ceremony and celebration on June 12th at Aero Gear in Windsor. Aero Gear founder Doug Rose welcomed suppliers, local leaders and customers to tour the facility’s new 24,000 sq ft addition and get an exclusive  behind-the-scenes look at the intricate process of manufacturing precision gearboxes for jet engines.

Smith recognized the commitment to the state that Aero Gear has demonstrated for the last 35+ years since its inception in 1982. She has worked in conjunction Rose with since 2011 to continually raise the standard of productivity and business in Connecticut.

“I am so excited to see Doug’s hard work pay off and celebrate the effort he has taken up to stay in this great state,” said Smith. “With all the other great industry leaders here, Connecticut has proven itself to be one of the pioneers in innovation and success for the aerospace industry.”

Rose explained the expansion was necessary to meet the growing demand fornew commercial and military defense planes around the world. The gearboxes that Aero Gear produces and perfects on a daily basis are used by aircraft manufacturers Pratt & Whitney, Sikorsky, Boeing and General Electric. The expansion provides the company with approximately 100,000 total square feet to accommodate their 175 employees, a new lobby, conference room, offices, and manufacturing space for several new programs.

“We’ve come a long way from the small company we once were,” said Rose at the ribbon cutting ceremony. “Our growth would not be possible without the support of so many parties in the state, and most importantly our great employees. We are motivated and ready to take on the new challenges that this expansion will allow.”