BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — Mitsubishi Heavy Industries plans to hire 240 full-time employees for its operations at the North Central West Virginia Airport.
Gov. Jim Justice on Tuesday announced the jobs during a press conference at the airport. The additional workers will result in 750 employees working at the airport by next spring.
North Central West Virginia Airport Director Rick Rock said Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has grown since closing acquiring manufacturer Bombardier earlier this year.
“They had about 317 people working there (when the deal closed). At this moment, there are over 500,” he said.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ $550 million deal closed in June and included maintenance, support, refurbishment and marketing work for regional aircraft.
“The regional aircraft that fly people around the United States. They come here to get their work done,” Rock said.
“We’re hoping they’re just scratching the surface of their potential and they’ll see what a great place West Virginia is to do business. They’ll also see the quality and craftsmanship of the workforce here and they’ll continue to grow.”
The airport is currently undergoing a $70 million renovation project, which includes filling two valleys adjacent to the existing runway, building a new terminal with access to West Virginia Route 279 and a new aerotech park.
The project is slated to be complete in late 2023.