Area Development
Kaman Aerospace Group’s subsidiary, Kaman Engineering Services, opened a new regional office hub at the Clemson University Restoration Institute Campus in North Charleston, South Carolina.

Kaman Engineering Services President Jim Larwood said “it recognizes the growing aerospace requirements in the Southeast USA and the new regional office will support that demand. Kaman Engineering Services provides a unique, high-level engineering skill set and competency that aligns with the needs of Boeing South Carolina’s operation. This investment is one of several investments in Kaman’s strategy of geographic diversification, and we are pleased to be part of the growing research and development community in the Charleston region.”

Kaman has already been awarded a purchase order to utilize its extensive experience working with Boeing’s 787 program structures team to support production of the 787 Dreamliner in the role of Stress Liaison, the company said. In addition to the opening of the Clemson office, a select team of Kaman employees will be co-located near Boeing’s North Charleston production facility, with additional support staff in Everett, Washington.

“Kaman’s on-site teams will include lead engineers to provide the greatest impact of the co-location and support the Boeing engineering teams,” said Cliff Ward, General Manager of Kaman Engineering Services.

North Charleston’s Mayor Keith Summey said, “We commit to Kaman and to our expanding aerospace and engineering sectors that our community will remain business friendly. Significant capital investments and increased opportunities for quality new jobs, as Kaman is providing, continue to strengthen our city.”

In addition, Nikolaos Rigas, Clemson University Restoration Institute Executive Director, said, "We are delighted to welcome another innovative company to Clemson University’s graduate campus in the Charleston region. Our campus is built on a foundation of applied research and public-private partnerships, and Kaman’s diversified portfolio makes this leading aerospace and industrial distribution company an ideal new partner.”

Governor Nikki Haley commented, “The Aerospace sector is a major driver for our state’s economy. Seeing Boeing suppliers like Kaman Engineering Services opening new offices in South Carolina speaks volumes for our economic future and we celebrate with them as they establish their new office in Charleston County.”

"We've been talking with Kaman Aerospace for some time about the competitive advantages the Charleston region offers. As a Boeing supplier, the presence of the world's most advanced drivetrain testing facility in our market, coupled with our educational assets, customized training programs, and our supply of highly-skilled workers were critical factors in Kaman Engineering's decision to be one of the first few companies to locate on Clemson's Energy Systems Campus in close proximity to Boeing South Carolina. This company will be a tremendous asset to our community for many years to come,” said Bob Whitten, Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chairman.