Program will help company train 14,500-plus workers for largest economic development project in state's history
RALEIGH, N.C., June 12, 2025 -- Today, JetZero has announced a $4.7 billion investment for a production facility at the Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) in Greensboro, N.C., with plans to create over 14,500 jobs – the largest jobs announcement in state history. The site, located on PTI property, will house production for the company's commercial blended-wing-bodied airplanes, the Z4, and will serve as the company's headquarters once operational. A groundbreaking for the site is slated for early 2026. The North Carolina Community College System has signed on to partner with the company to lead a robust, customized workforce training program – valued at over $30 million. The program will enable JetZero to hit its aggressive hiring goals, ramping up the site's production over a 10-year period.
North Carolina is uniquely positioned to support the aviation innovator's growth and hiring needs, with a plentiful and skilled labor force of 5.5 million, and over 49,000 engineers. The state also boasts the largest manufacturing workforce in the Southeast and grants more than 30,000 STEM degrees annually. The System's 58 community colleges partner with companies to develop bespoke workforce training solutions through the NCEdge program, which focuses on upskilling and retraining solutions for companies locating or expanding in the state.
"North Carolina offers the ideal combination of talent, infrastructure and forward-thinking leadership to support our mission to reshape aviation," said Tom O'Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero. "I applaud the leadership of Gov. Josh Stein and his team…and a whole host of local leaders and organizations for working with us to bring JetZero to North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation."
The new facility will create thousands of direct manufacturing and engineering jobs, and indirect and induced jobs via suppliers and service providers. Jobs offered at the site will have an average wage of over $89,000 per year, well above the state's average.
"North Carolina's expansive community college network will serve as a critical workforce development engine for JetZero," said John Loyack, vice president of economic development for the North Carolina Community College System, which administers the customized workforce training. "We've already discussed the company's unique workforce needs and outlined a detailed customized training plan which will be developed through our 'NCEdge' program. In a joint effort with Guilford Technical Community College and other colleges in the region, we're excited to move forward into implementing a customized program that will set JetZero up for workforce onboarding success here in North Carolina."
Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC), a critical project partner, has established itself as a key player in aviation education, with a dedicated campus that supports the state's growing aerospace and aviation sectors. With deep partnerships across the industry and an infrastructure that mirrors real-world aviation environments, GTCC plays a critical role in shaping a skilled workforce for regional and national employers – including manufacturers like JetZero. Its aviation programs are grounded in hands-on training, supported by advanced simulators, active aircraft and specialized labs.
"This initiative speaks to the undeniable power of partnerships in education and training in shaping the future of our state's economy," said Dr. Anthony J. Clarke, president of GTCC. "We're proud to play a central role in preparing our workforce for one of the most transformative projects in the aviation industry."
"This project highlights exactly why NCEdge exists – to meet employers where they are and build tailored training that delivers real results," said Betty Silver, associate vice president of NCEdge Customized Training. "We're honored to help lead the workforce development behind this historic effort, preparing thousands of North Carolinians for rewarding careers and strengthening our aviation industry talent pipeline."
As part of its customized training work, the NCEdge team regularly conducts workforce assessments, identifies skills gaps, and develops multi-year training roadmaps directly with employers throughout the state. These cover pre-employment screening, technical upskilling, leadership development and continuous improvement. This hands-on, consultative approach ensures that training aligns tightly with actual business needs and that companies can focus on operations while the colleges manage program logistics.
About JetZero
JetZero's revolutionary airframe Z4 is a game-changer, slashing fuel burn, emissions, and costs with its ultra-efficient all-wing body design. By maximizing lift and minimizing drag, it will deliver up to 50% greater fuel efficiency and an associated reduction in emissions. This breakthrough isn't just about better performance; it's about a cleaner, quieter, and improved travel experience. JetZero's Z4, designed in California, will be produced in Greensboro, N.C., with an entry into service in the early 2030s. Visit: www.jetzero.aero.
About the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS)
The North Carolina Community College System is a network of 58 community colleges created to improve the quality of life across North Carolina by opening the door to opportunities that minimize barriers to post-secondary education, maximize student success, and develop a globally and multi-culturally competent workforce. The Economic Development Division provides education, training, and support services for new, expanding, and existing business and industry in all 100 North Carolina counties through the network of 58 community colleges. Learn more at www.nccommunitycolleges.edu.
About Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC)
Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) is a public community college in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina, serving students across Guilford County and the surrounding areas. It is a two-year college focused on training and retraining the local workforce, preparing students for further education, and offering various programs and courses. GTCC is the fourth largest institution in the North Carolina Community College System. For more information visit: www.gtcc.edu.
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