In an exciting development for the aviation and aerospace industry, Boeing has announced its partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to establish a new engineering center of excellence in Central Florida. This collaboration will bring 400 high-paying jobs to Volusia County, Florida, by 2026.

The state-of-the-art center will be located at the Cici and Hyatt Brown Center for Aerospace Technology, situated within Embry-Riddle's Research Park on the Daytona Beach Campus. After two years of construction, the center is set to open its doors by autumn 2024.

Boeing is committed to recruiting and developing highly skilled engineers who will contribute to the company’s Defense, Space, and Security aircraft programs, as well as its advanced technology capabilities. By the end of 2024, Boeing plans to employ 200 professionals at the new facility, named Boeing Daytona Beach. The remaining 200 positions will be filled over the course of 2025 and 2026.

Embry-Riddle's Board of Trustees Chairman, Mori Hosseini, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing its positive impact on the local and state economy. "Four hundred people and their loved ones will live and work here, invest in our local economy, and contribute to the future of aviation and aerospace," he said.

The establishment of the engineering center of excellence was made possible in part due to the generosity of philanthropists Cici and Hyatt Brown, who pledged $25 million to Embry-Riddle in 2022. The Browns' donation was matched by $25 million in support from Florida legislators, marking the university's largest-ever gift. Their aim in making this substantial contribution was to create high-paying jobs through Embry-Riddle's business makerspace.

Boeing's arrival in Volusia County will also bring significant investments in the community. The company plans to make a $100,000 contribution to various local nonprofit organizations, including the Second Harvest Food Bank of Volusia County Schools Partnership Program. Additionally, Boeing will support veterans and environmental programs in the area.

Looking forward, Boeing intends to launch the DreamLearners Program in Volusia County Schools, providing students with hands-on STEM programs and insights into aerospace careers. These initiatives underscore the company's commitment to fostering education and cultivating talent in the region.

Embry-Riddle President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D., highlighted the university's dedication to creating opportunities for the next generation of skilled workers and fostering collaboration between the business and education sectors. He emphasized that the Research Park has already had a significant economic impact, generating $137 million and creating over 120 jobs.

Boeing's presence in Volusia County is expected to further expand career opportunities, boost the local economy, and enhance the community. With plans to attract both Embry-Riddle graduates and experienced aerospace engineers from across the nation, Boeing is poised to accelerate innovation in combat aircraft programs.

Those interested in career opportunities with Boeing Daytona Beach can expect more information and an online portal for applications soon. This partnership between Boeing and Embry-Riddle underscores Florida's status as a pivotal hub for aviation and aerospace advancements.