Aircraft Services Provider to Create Over 250 Jobs in Tucson Expansion
TUCSON, AZ (February 22, 2024) — The MHI RJ Aviation Group (MHIRJ) is set to significantly bolster its workforce at Tucson International Airport. The provider of maintenance, repair, and overhaul services intends to add 100 new jobs this year, with plans to increase this number to over 250 within the next three years.
MHIRJ’s expansion aims to enhance its capacity to accommodate the growing demand for maintenance and operational support for the CRJ Series and other aircraft. Currently, MHIRJ services these aircraft at facilities in Tucson, AZ, and Bridgeport, WV, and plans to activate additional maintenance lines.
The company’s strategy includes investing in site improvements and hiring more staff, with a focus on roles such as A&P and Avionics Technicians, Structures Technicians, Machinists/Welders, Crew Chiefs, and NDT Technicians. “We aim to contribute to the economic growth of Tucson through the continued growth of our maintenance activities,” stated Ross Mitchell, Vice President of Strategy, Business Development, Marketing, Communications, and Business Operations at MHIRJ. “We are committed to growing our facility to meet the demand coming from the market, and we need people who have the drive and determination to join us in Tucson.”
To tackle the workforce shortage in the aviation sector, MHIRJ plans to support the Pima Community College Foundation by offering six annual scholarships of $1000 each from 2024 to 2029 to promote career opportunities among Tucson’s youth.
Key partners in this project include the Arizona Commerce Authority, Sun Corridor Inc., Pima County, the City of Tucson, Tucson Airport Authority, and Pima Community College.
Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited the MHI RJ Aviation Group has chosen to expand its aircraft maintenance operations in Tucson.” She added, “As an aviation industry leader with a reputation for excellence, MHIRJ will further enhance Southern Arizona’s robust aerospace and aviation industry and create even more skilled jobs in Southern Arizona.”
Joe Snell, President and CEO of Sun Corridor Inc., remarked, “This expansion demonstrates the confidence MHIRJ has in the value proposition of Tucson as a leader in aerospace and aviation industry.” He noted the importance of Pima Community College’s Aviation Technology Center in supplying skilled graduates for the region’s aerospace, defense, and aviation sectors.
Tucson Mayor Regina Romero highlighted the expansion as a testament to the region’s skilled workforce, saying, “I am happy to see that the MHIRJ Aviation Group, part of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries family, will expand its operations while adding more than 250 high-wage jobs to Tucson.”
Rex Scott, Vice Chair of the Pima County Board of Supervisors, emphasized Pima County’s role in workforce development, stating, “Pima County is a strong partner in workforce development for the aerospace & defense industry, including maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities like MHIRJ.”
Danette Bewley, President & CEO of the Tucson Airport Authority, expressed optimism for the partnership, asserting, “The Tucson Airport Authority (TAA) is pleased to partner with MHIRJ as they expand their presence at Tucson International Airport (TUS).”
Jason R. Bowersock, Director of Aviation at Pima Community College, thanked MHIRJ for the scholarships, saying, “We’re extremely thankful for the scholarship opportunities that MHIRJ is creating for our students.”
MHIRJ will host a career fair on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, allowing attendees to tour the MHIRJ facility, meet the team, and participate in onsite interviews. The company has also launched the “Live Your Best Life in Tucson” campaign, highlighting the benefits of working and living in Tucson. This initiative complements Sun Corridor Inc.’s “Thrive in Tucson” talent campaign.
Read More Here
