Columbia, S.C. - The Economic Development Partnership of Aiken and Edgefield Counties and the South Carolina Department of Commerce announced today that BAE Systems will receive support in expanding operations in Aiken County. BAE Systems has received various contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense to produce, upgrade and remanufacture key defense systems for the nation’s armed forces, such as Bradley Combat Systems vehicles, Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Systems (MRAPS) mine-protected wheeled vehicles and Vertical Launching System components. The company recently leased the former Avondale Distribution Center at Sage Mill Industrial Park near Graniteville, and plans to invest in the facility and create an opportunity for increased employment for BAE Systems in the Aiken area.
“South Carolina and Aiken County are very supportive of manufacturing industry, and the workforce in the Aiken area is excellent,” said Mike Eaton, BAE Systems’ Aiken Plant Manager. “The job development credits offered through the South Carolina Enterprise Zone are expected to support this expansion and benefit both the organization and the Aiken County area workforce over the coming years.”
BAE Systems has begun the hiring process and is currently working closely with Aiken Technical College and the state’s Center for Accelerated Technology Training program. The company will initially produce engine compartments in Aiken County for MRAPS, which is the company’s latest wheeled vehicle designed to defeat improvised explosive devises and small arms fire.
“This expansion demonstrates the strengths of our economy. Our workforce, access to markets, and quality infrastructure continue to provide new opportunities for industry growth,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce. “Thanks to the work of the Economic Development Partnership and the state Department of Commerce, Aiken County will benefit significantly from this investment.”
BAE Systems’ Aiken facility in the Verenes Industrial Park currently employs 260 people.
"I am pleased that BAE Systems will be expanding into one of the facilities impacted by the closure of Avondale Mills last year. Having an available building put us in the game, but it is BAE Systems' excellent past performance and the team members that continues to bring additional work,” said Ronnie Young, Chairman, Aiken County Council.
"This announcement by BAE Systems is a great example of the positive business environment and quality workforce in our community resulting in the expansion of one of our outstanding existing businesses. The fact that this project supports our national defense gives me pride. The precision metal working industry in Aiken County continues to grow and prosper," said John Troutman, Chairman, Economic Development Partnership.
BAE Systems is a global defense and aerospace company, delivering a full range of products and services for air, land, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, information technology solutions, and customer support services. BAE Systems, with 88,000 employees worldwide, had 2006 sales that exceeded $25 billion.