Leonardo Helicopters Opens Support Center in Broussard
Jan 31, 2019 02:23PM ● By Flint Zerangue, Sr.Leonardo Helicopters, a global leader in the production of military and commercial rotorcraft OEM and replacement parts, held a grand opening celebration today at its new 21,000 sq. ft. “Gulf of Mexico Support Center” in Broussard, LA.
With operations in Philadelphia and Las Vegas, the Broussard facility becomes the third U.S. location for the Italian based firm.
“Leonardo Helicopters is opening in Broussard, Louisiana to bring regional support to our Americas-based customers,” said Mike Hotze, Leonardo Helicopters Vice President of Customer Support and Training. “By localizing customer support in the Gulf of Mexico region, we will deliver the highest level of quality and service.”
The Leonardo Helicopters Gulf of Mexico Support Center facility will provide blade repair, OEM parts, and technical support for current and new clients throughout the Americas. While the company expects to employ 15 skilled technicians and staff in 2019, expectations are to double that over the next 48 months.
Troy Penny, General Manager of the Broussard facility, stated, “The team we’re assembling in Broussard has decades of experience working in aviation and rotor blade repair—we’re looking forward to providing the highest quality product and service to our Leonardo customers.”
“The City of Broussard is proud to be chosen by Leonardo Helicopters as the next city for this global company to plant roots,” said Broussard Mayor Ray Bourque. “We are committed to being a good partner to our business community.”
“Lafayette and Acadiana anchor an aviation industry that has served the energy, training, and emergency services sectors for decades. The establishment of Leonardo Helicopters’ facility will build on the region’s long-standing aviation history,” said Gregg Gothreaux, Lafayette Economic Development Authority President and CEO. “Leonardo will provide quality employment opportunities for our region’s experienced aviation and manufacturing workforce.”
* Photos by Flint Zerangue, Sr. - Parish News