Kaman Aircraft Corporation, a global aerospace and industrial manufacturer and distributor, expanded its operations center in Jacksonville, Florida, with plans to ultimately create 200 new jobs.

With 430 employees in Jacksonville and more than 700 employees across Florida, the expansion also created a capital investment of more than $30 million in Duval County. The company manufactures and provides parts, components, systems and programs that meet mission-critical aerospace and industrial challenges.

Neal Keating, Chairman, President & CEO of Kaman Corporation, said, “Florida has been very good to Kaman and we have been pleased to grow here in Jacksonville. Under Governor Scott’s leadership, Florida is a great place to operate and grow a business. We continue to look for opportunities to create jobs here in Jacksonville and across the state.”

The Kaman expansion was made possible through partnerships between Enterprise Florida, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, JAXUSA and the City of Jacksonville.

Bill Johnson, Enterprise Florida President and CEO said, “Kaman’s creation of 200 new jobs in Jacksonville is more great news for our economy. Florida is ranked #1 for aerospace manufacturing attractiveness and workforce, and companies like Kaman are taking advantage of Florida’s great aerospace assets. We will continue to build on our success as a global leader in aerospace & aviation, and I look forward to Kaman’s success.”

Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Executive Director Cissy Proctor said, “This industry provides high-wage, high-skill jobs to Floridians and helps further diversify the state economy. I look forward to welcoming more companies like Kaman when Florida permanently eliminates the sales tax on manufacturing machinery and equipment this year.”

“Kaman’s continued growth and innovation in the Jacksonville market is a great example of our strength in the aviation sector,” said Aaron Bowman, senior vice president of JAXUSA Partnership. “Jacksonville is uniquely positioned in the middle of the Southeastern aviation corridor and the company’s continued investment in our region further enhances our image as a major player in the aviation and aerospace industry.”

Gov. Rick Scott said, “Florida manufacturers like Kaman have created thousands of jobs across the state, and it is crucial that we continue to support this job growth by creating the $250 million dedicated Florida Enterprise Fund and cutting $1 billion in taxes this Legislative Session.”