High-flying Prestwick firm looks to employ more

Dec 26 2008

MORE than 200 new jobs look set to be created in Prestwick.

The highly-skilled posts are expected to be a direct result of the rapid expansion at aircraft maintenance specialist Goodrich.

First Minister Alex Salmond was at the facility on Wednesday to open a brand new extension.

He said: “Goodrich is a major global company who continues to invest in Scotland and has greatly benefited from the high value it has placed on our skilled workforce.

“The extension to this vast facility reflects the rapid growth and success of the company's operations in Prestwick.”

The new extension will help boost the existing 280-strong workforce to around 500.

Mr Salmond explained: “The strength and presence of Goodrich has played a significant role in establishing Prestwick as one of Europe's aerospace hubs.

“However, the economic benefit of the company's growth will be felt far beyond Ayrshire. Scotland leads the UK in training apprentices to meet the needs of the aerospace and defence industry.

“Goodrich is one of approximately 180 companies based in Scotland working in the aerospace industry, which allows them to take full advantage of our highly skilled workforce.”

Steve Callan is Goodrich’s managing director.

He said: “We are delighted the First Minister is here to open the extension to our facility.

“This is an exciting time for our business, which continues to thrive despite the economic challenges facing the industry globally.

“Over the years we have worked hard to build a world class skills base here at Prestwick which enables us to provide a first class service in the maintenance, repair and overhaul of nacelle systems in an extremely competitive market, and this expansion is illustrative of how successful we have been in achieving this.”

And chief executive of Scottish Enterprise, Jack Perry insists that it’s great news for the industry in Ayrshire.

He added: “Goodrich is a key inward investor and I am delighted that the company is once again demonstrating its commitment to Scotland through the extension of its facility in Prestwick. Goodrich is an important employer in this sector and this development is tremendous news, strengthening Scotland's excellent reputation in the global aerospace industry.”