News Summary
Williams International has unveiled plans to establish a $1 billion aviation gas turbine engine manufacturing facility in Crestview, Florida. The project will create over 330 jobs and unfold in three phases, spanning 750,000 square feet. Local organizations have offered support to enhance manufacturing capabilities and economic growth in the area. Governor Ron DeSantis hailed the initiative as a pivotal achievement for employment and the aerospace sector in Northwest Florida, promising a bright future for the community.
Williams International to Launch $1 Billion Gas Turbine Engine Facility in Crestview, Florida
Williams International has announced plans to build a new aviation gas turbine engine manufacturing facility at the Shoal River Ranch Gigasite in Crestview, Florida. This ambitious project, which is set to invest over $1 billion into the local economy, is expected to create more than 330 jobs in the region and is one of the largest economic development projects in Northwest Florida’s history.
A Three-Phased Development Plan
The construction will unfold in three phases, collectively totaling approximately 750,000 square feet of manufacturing space. Phase I will involve the construction of an initial 250,000-square-foot building, with plans to break ground in late 2025 and aim for completion by late 2026.
Subsequent phases will follow, with Phase II set to begin in 2028, while Phase III is projected for 2035 or 2036, when the entire planned area will be realized. Together, these phases will help establish a state-of-the-art facility designed to produce high-quality, high-volume aviation gas turbine engines.
State-of-the-Art Manufacturing
The planned facility will include comprehensive construction activities, such as the installation of cranes and hoists, alongside casting, machining, welding, assembly, painting, and testing equipment. The selection of Carlson Design Group for architectural and civil engineering services, as well as Walbridge for construction services, aims to ensure the highest standards are met throughout the project.
Support and Collaboration
This project has garnered significant support from various state and local organizations to bolster manufacturing capabilities in Okaloosa County. Financial backing comes through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, which awarded $3.2 million in 2022 specifically for the expansion of manufacturing in the region. Key partners like FloridaCommerce, CareerSource Florida, Triumph Gulf Coast, Florida’s Great Northwest, and Space Florida are working collaboratively to enhance economic growth.
A Strategic Investment
Williams International, headquartered in Pontiac, Michigan, is recognized as a leading developer in the design and manufacturing of aviation gas turbine engines. This new facility aligns with the company’s goal of establishing highly integrated and automated manufacturing processes focused on producing engines efficiently and effectively.
The decision to locate this facility in Crestview is the result of a multi-state search that began in 2023, underscoring the area’s appeal as a hub for aerospace innovation and job creation.
Impact on the Community
Officials, including Governor Ron DeSantis, praised the project as a notable achievement for Florida, highlighting its significance in generating employment opportunities and enhancing the aerospace sector’s presence in the community.
In summary, the establishment of the new gas turbine engine manufacturing facility by Williams International is set to transform Crestview, Florida, into a key player in the aerospace industry while promoting economic prosperity throughout Northwest Florida. With the groundwork laid for an extensive multi-phase construction project, the future looks bright for both the region and its workforce.
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Additional Resources
- Florida Governor’s Office
- Mid Bay News
- AIN Online
- Get The Coast
- Plant Services
- Wikipedia: Gas Turbine
- Google Search: Williams International
- Google Scholar: Williams International investment
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aerospace Engineering
- Google News: Williams International Crestview
Author: Construction FL News
FLORIDA STAFF WRITER The FLORIDA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionflnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florida and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florida Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida and the Florida Home Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Shutts & Bowen LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
