Governor Spanberger Announces AeroNimble Expands With $2.5 Million Investment in Harrisonburg

HARRISONBURG, VA - Governor Abigail Spanberger announced today that AeroNimble - a Harrisonburg-based startup specializing in PT6 aircraft engine overhaul and blade component manufacturing - will invest more than $2.5 million to expand its operational capacity and create 51 new jobs in the Commonwealth.

In preparation for the launch, AeroNimble worked with Blue Ridge Community College (BRCC) to set salaries and establish guidelines that will allow BRCC students to start entry level positions immediately upon graduation. With salaries starting at $62,000, qualified BRCC graduates as young as 19 years old will be able to start and grow their careers without leaving the Shenandoah Valley. AeroNimble anticipates BRCC will be its largest source of new graduate talent.

"As a global hub for aerospace innovation, Virginia is thrilled to support AeroNimble's continued expansion in the Commonwealth," said Governor Abigail Spanberger. "Beyond a track record of business growth and our exceptional access to American aircraft owners, Virginia has a deep well of talent that makes Harrisonburg the best place for AeroNimble to continue to grow. I am particularly proud of their partnership with Blue Ridge Community College that will make sure that so many of these positions are filled by Virginians right here in the Shenandoah Valley. By giving students the tools, support, and opportunities to grow their careers, we can make sure our next generation is set up for long-term success."

"Virginia has created the right environment for AeroNimble's expansion in the Shenandoah Valley through talent innovations and targeted economic development," said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery. "By working with Blue Ridge Community College to attract and retain young Virginians in the Shenandoah Valley, AeroNimble is also showcasing how new approaches to workforce development partnerships and support for entrepreneurs can impact a region."

"We are incredibly grateful for the Commonwealth of Virginia's startup tax credits and economic development support, which played a meaningful role in our decision to build AeroNimble in Harrisonburg," said AeroNimble Chief Human Resources Officer Eric Terry. "These incentives allow us to invest more deeply in people, training, and long-term capabilities while accelerating high-quality job creation in the Shenandoah Valley. We see this as a partnership with the region, and we are excited to grow alongside a community that values skilled manufacturing, aviation safety, and workforce development."

A vital part of civilian and military aircraft safety, PT6 engine overhauls are comprehensive maintenance procedures required every 3,000-5,000 hours to restore engine performance to original specifications. Requiring the complete disassembly, cleaning, assessment, repair, and reassembly of the engine, PT6 engine overhauls can lead to prolonged downtime for aircraft. By manufacturing blade components in-house, AeroNimble will be able to decrease service timelines for customers.

"We are excited that AeroNimble chose Harrisonburg and the Shenandoah Valley Region to expand their operation," said Shenandoah Valley Partnership Executive Director Jay A. Langston. "Aviation related companies have long been a target sector for the region because of the economic multiplier of the highly skilled workers, the high value of the products involved and the logistics requirements that can involve the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport. We look forward to the start of AeroNimble's operation and their contribution to aviation growth in the region."

"Harrisonburg is excited to welcome AeroNimble to our city," said Harrisonburg Mayor Deanna R. Reed. "Aircraft engine maintenance is a growth sector that offers high-paying skilled jobs and is a great fit for our local and regional economy. We have a great track record for helping startups grow and prosper. We look forward to partnering with AeroNimble as they invest in our community and grow their workforce."

"This $2.5 million investment in Harrisonburg by AeroNimble is great news for the Shenandoah Valley," said Senator Mark Obenshain. "The addition of 51 new jobs in the aerospace industry is a perfect fit for our area, with our regional airport and our highly skilled workforce. I welcome AeroNimble to the Valley and commend them for choosing to invest in our community and create new opportunities for local families."

"We are proud to welcome AeroNimble to the Shenandoah Valley," said Delegate Tony Wilt. "Our region offers a unique combination of skilled talent, strong infrastructure, and an exceptional quality of life, making it an ideal home for companies like AeroNimble. This project brings high-quality jobs and reinforces the Valley's growing role in advanced manufacturing and aviation. I look forward to seeing the opportunities this investment will create for our local families and economy."

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the City of Harrisonburg and the Shenandoah Valley Partnership to secure the project for Virginia and will support AeroNimble's job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia's commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens.

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