Rolls-Royce expanding at Stennis Space Center

by MBJ Staff

Published: January 10,2012

Tags: aerospace, aviation, defense, employment, expansion, jobs, manufacturing, military, research and development, space, technology, workers

HANCOCK COUNTY — Rolls-Royce North America is adding a second jet engine test stand at the NASA John C. Stennis Space Center, according to a release from the governor’s office. The project represents a company investment of at least $50 million and will create 35 new jobs.

Currently, Rolls-Royce employs 45 workers at its existing test stand at the Stennis Space Center.

James M. Guyette, chairman, president and CEO of Rolls-Royce North America, said, “Public-private partnerships such as this make it possible for us to invest in America and compete in a global economy. America can compete. That’s why we are partnering and investing in several U.S. locations.”

The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) helped facilitate the project by providing assistance for infrastructure improvements through the Hurricane Katrina Disaster Recovery Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, as well as assistance for construction and training activities through the Momentum Mississippi Incentives program. The agency also provided assistance for workforce training. Additionally, Hancock County is providing assistance for the project.

Headquartered in Reston, Va., Rolls-Royce North America opened its Outdoor Jet Engine Testing Facility at Stennis Space Center in 2007. The site is one of three such sites in the world, and it conducts specialist development engine testing including noise, crosswind, thrust reverse, cyclic and endurance testing on all current Rolls-Royce engine types.