Aerospace engineering in North Carolina thrives on innovation and evolution. Companies within this sector range from established giants to nimble start-ups, all contributing to everything from aircraft manufacturing to advanced materials development. Focused on commercial aviation, defense systems, and emerging technologies like unmanned aerial vehicles, these firms are crucial players in enhancing air travel safety and efficiency. With increasing global demand for sophisticated aerospace solutions, North Carolina's industry is poised for growth. Collaborations between businesses and universities are nurturing a skilled workforce while fostering breakthroughs that could shape aerial transportation for the future.

This listing highlights 20 noted aerospace engineering firms in North Carolina, varying in size from small innovators to large corporations. Companies like Collins Aerospace, founded in 1933, showcase long-standing expertise alongside newer establishments such as Tiger Precision Products, founded in 2020. The specialization range is wide, covering areas such as manufacturing, maintenance, and technology solutions across commercial and military sectors. Each company plays a distinctive role, with many located around Charlotte and other key cities, benefiting from close proximity to major transport hubs and resources.

Continue reading to discover the top aerospace engineering companies in North Carolina.

Top 20 Aerospace Engineering Companies in North Carolina

1. Collins Aerospace

• Website: collinsaerospace.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 57%, India 14%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%, Other 23%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $1.1M, March 2023
• Founded year: 1933
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: collins-aerospace

Collins Aerospace, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a technology company that specializes in aerospace and defense solutions. Founded in 1933, the company has grown to employ over 53,000 people globally. Collins Aerospace offers a comprehensive range of products and services, including avionics systems, aerostructures, and connected aircraft solutions. Their innovations are aimed at improving safety, efficiency, and performance in aviation, catering to both commercial airlines and military organizations. The company is actively involved in various sectors, including commercial aviation, business aviation, military and defense, helicopters, and space. Recently, Collins Aerospace received a grant of $1,100,000 in March 2023, reflecting their commitment to advancing technology in the aerospace field.

2. UTC Aerospace Systems

• Website: utcaerospacesystems.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 55%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%, India 8%, Other 27%
• Latest funding: January 2018
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: utc_aerospace_systems

UTC Aerospace Systems, now operating under the name Collins Aerospace, is a prominent aerospace manufacturer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Founded in 2012, the company specializes in advanced technologies and solutions tailored for commercial aviation, military defense, and business aviation. Their extensive portfolio includes products such as avionics systems, structural technologies, and integrated systems that enhance aircraft performance and safety. Collins Aerospace is committed to innovation, focusing on sustainability and efficiency in its operations. The company serves a wide array of clients, including major airlines and military organizations, positioning itself as a vital contributor to the aerospace sector. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Collins Aerospace is well-equipped to address the evolving demands of the aerospace industry.

3. USfalcon

• Website: usfalcon.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cary, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: usfalcon

USfalcon, founded in 1984 and based in Cary, North Carolina, is a private professional services company that specializes in aviation maintenance engineering, aerospace operations, information technology solutions, and business operations management. With a workforce of approximately 304 employees, USfalcon has established itself as a key player in providing critical support services to enhance operational readiness for military and government clients. The company has a strong focus on aviation maintenance, ensuring that aircraft are safe and mission-ready through rigorous quality control and logistics support. They also engage in aerospace operations, providing strategic and tactical support to enhance the capabilities of the Air Force and other military branches. USfalcon has achieved AS9110C certification, demonstrating their commitment to quality in aviation maintenance. Their history of contracts with various government agencies highlights their role in the aerospace sector, particularly in supporting defense operations. USfalcon continues to grow and expand its competencies, reflecting its ongoing relevance in the aerospace engineering industry.

4. Curtiss-Wright Controls, Inc.

• Website: cwcontrols.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Founded year: 1929
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: curtiss-wright-controls-inc.

Curtiss-Wright Controls, Inc. is a manufacturing company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a focus on advanced technologies for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets. Founded in 1929, the company has built a reputation for providing a wide array of products and services that include actuation systems, embedded computing solutions, and power generation technologies. Their offerings are critical for both defense forces and commercial aerospace companies, ensuring the reliability and safety of various applications. The company operates through several divisions, including Aerospace & Industrial, Defense Electronics, and Naval & Power, each contributing to their extensive portfolio. Curtiss-Wright's technologies are often utilized in high-stakes environments, where performance and reliability are paramount. Their commitment to innovation and quality has made them a trusted partner in the aerospace sector, catering to the needs of customers who require advanced engineering solutions.

5. Fibreworks Composites LLC

• Website: fibreworkscomposites.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mooresville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fibreworks-composites

Fibreworks Composites LLC, based in Mooresville, North Carolina, is a private composite manufacturer founded in 2009. The company specializes in custom design, engineering, and manufacturing solutions tailored for various industries, including aerospace, defense, and motorsport. With a workforce of approximately 78 employees, Fibreworks is dedicated to delivering high-quality composite parts that meet the fast-paced demands of its clients. The firm is currently expanding its operations with a new 115,000 square foot facility, set to be fully operational by June 2024, which will enhance its manufacturing capabilities. Fibreworks is also involved in cutting-edge projects such as drone systems and electric vertical take-off vehicles, showcasing its commitment to innovation in aerospace applications. The company adheres to strict safety and quality standards, ensuring that its products meet the rigorous requirements of the aerospace industry.

6. Quest One Aerospace

• Website: quest-1.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Holly Springs, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: quest-one-aerospace

Quest One Aerospace, founded in 2004 and based in Holly Springs, North Carolina, is a private company that specializes in supplying high-quality parts for the aviation, defense, and space industries. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, Quest One focuses on providing sourcing solutions for both standard and custom aerospace components. Their services cater to a range of needs, including research and development, production, and aftermarket support. The company prides itself on its ability to assist clients in finding hard-to-source parts and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Quest One has established partnerships with leading manufacturers, which enhances their capability to deliver quality products and responsive service. They have received recognition for their performance, including the Boeing Silver Supplier award in multiple years. Their certifications, such as AS9120B with ISO 9001:2015, further demonstrate their commitment to quality and compliance in the aerospace sector.

7. Iomax Usa

• Website: iomax.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mooresville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, Jordan 6%, Egypt 6%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: iomax-usa

Iomax USA, founded in 2001 and based in Mooresville, North Carolina, is a private company that specializes in aerospace and defense solutions. The firm focuses on providing advanced aerial surveillance and precision strike capabilities through its aircraft and integrated systems. Iomax USA serves military and security organizations, offering expertise that enhances operational effectiveness. Their product offerings include the Archangel aircraft and the AT-802 Border Patrol Aircraft, both designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The company also provides a range of services, including aircraft upgrades, weapon systems integration, and comprehensive training programs for operators and maintenance personnel. Iomax USA has established a reputation for delivering tailored solutions that meet specific customer needs, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa, where they have partnered with various governments and security agencies. Their commitment to innovation and customer support underscores their role in the aerospace engineering industry.

8. Textum OPCO, LLC

• Website: textum.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Belmont, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: March 2020
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: textum-weaving-inc.

Textum OPCO, LLC, founded in 1996 and based in Belmont, North Carolina, is a textile manufacturer that specializes in advanced fabrics and composite materials. The company serves various industries, with a strong emphasis on aerospace and defense. Textum is known for its innovative solutions tailored for extreme environments, such as high-temperature seals that can withstand cryogenic to ultra-high temperatures. Their product offerings include specialty and engineered fabrics, 3D fabrics, helical fabrics, and preforms, all designed to meet the rigorous standards of aerospace applications. Textum holds multiple patents for its unique textile technologies, showcasing its commitment to research and development. The company is ISO 9001-2015 and AS9100D certified, reflecting its dedication to quality in the aerospace sector. With a team of around 30 employees, Textum combines agility with extensive industry experience, making it a valuable partner for aerospace projects.

9. Tiger Precision Products

• Website: tigerpp.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mooresville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tiger-precision-products

Tiger Precision Products (TPP), founded in 2020 and based in Mooresville, North Carolina, is a private manufacturer that specializes in custom composite parts and CNC machining. The company primarily serves the aerospace, automotive, and defense industries, focusing on high-quality components for mobile satellite communications. TPP's core competencies include the production of carbon fiber composite parts, particularly for manpack terminals, utilizing a resin-infusion process in closed molds. This method allows for the creation of parts that require minimal secondary machining, enhancing efficiency and quality. Additionally, TPP provides CNC machining services for metallic products, catering to the needs of the mobile satellite communications sector, especially for innovative terminals that utilize electronic beam steering. The company also engages with the automotive racing industry, leveraging its expertise in composite materials and machining. TPP is certified to ISO 9001:2015, ensuring that its quality management system meets rigorous standards for engineering and manufacturing. With a small team of 11-50 employees, TPP is positioned as a nimble and specialized manufacturer in the aerospace engineering landscape.

10. Corvid Technologies

• Website: corvidtec.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mooresville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: corvid-technologies

Corvid Technologies, founded in 2004 and based in Mooresville, North Carolina, is a private engineering firm with a workforce of approximately 356 employees. The company specializes in high-tech solutions, including software development and advanced manufacturing, primarily serving clients in defense and motorsports. Corvid provides end-to-end solutions that cover concept development, design optimization, prototyping, and testing. Their expertise includes high-fidelity computational physics solvers, which are crucial for analyzing high-rate physics phenomena, and they maintain a state-of-the-art supercomputer system to support their research and development efforts. Corvid's projects span various applications, including aircraft design, ballistic missile defense, and cybersecurity, showcasing their significant involvement in the aerospace industry. The company has received recognition for its achievements, including awards from the Small Business Administration for innovation in research and development.

11. US Cargo Systems

• Website: uscargosystems.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Goldsboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1948
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: us-cargo-systems

US Cargo Systems, based in Goldsboro, North Carolina, is an aerospace manufacturer that has been operational since 1948. The company specializes in cargo handling and aerial delivery systems tailored for military and commercial aircraft. Their product offerings include loading assist guides, flight restraints, and various support equipment, which are essential for efficient cargo operations. US Cargo Systems serves a range of clients in the defense and aviation sectors, providing both innovative solutions and repair services. The company operates a state-of-the-art production facility and adheres to rigorous industry standards, including ISO certifications and FAA regulations. Their expertise in systems engineering and project management further solidifies their position in the aerospace industry.

12. Northeast Tool & Manufacturing

• Website: northeasttool.us
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Matthews, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1964
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: northeasttool

Northeast Tool & Manufacturing, founded in 1964 and based in Matthews, North Carolina, is a family-owned contract manufacturing company that specializes in precision manufacturing services. With a workforce of approximately 36 employees, the company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality components and complex assemblies across various sectors, including aerospace, defense, energy, medical, and commercial industries. Their capabilities include advanced CNC machining, welding, and sheet metal fabrication, which are essential for producing precision parts required in aerospace applications. Northeast Tool is certified under ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D, underscoring their commitment to quality management and adherence to aerospace industry standards. The company has invested in cutting-edge technologies and processes to ensure they meet the evolving needs of their clients, particularly in the aerospace sector, where precision and reliability are paramount.

13. Icon Aerospace LLC

• Website: iconaerospace.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Indian Trail, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%
• Latest funding: September 2024
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: icon-aerospace-llc

Icon Aerospace LLC, based in Indian Trail, North Carolina, is an FAA and EASA approved repair station that specializes in the testing, repair, and overhaul of a wide range of aircraft components. Founded in 2009, the company has built a reputation for providing essential maintenance services that ensure the safety and reliability of aviation operations. With a workforce of approximately 59 employees, Icon Aerospace serves both commercial and military customers, handling over 25,000 aircraft components. Their facility spans 55,000 square feet and is equipped with state-of-the-art test equipment and OEM tooling, allowing them to meet the latest specifications in the industry. The company prides itself on quality, honesty, and reliability, which are central to their operations and customer relationships.

14. Aries Manufacturing

• Website: aries-manufacturing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Monroe, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: France 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ariesmanufacturing

Aries Manufacturing, founded in 1998 and based in Monroe, North Carolina, is a private aerospace manufacturer that specializes in the production of complex parts for the aerospace industry. The company employs advanced metal forming technologies, including Hot Stretch Forming (HSF®), Superplastic Forming (SPF), and Linear Friction Welding (LFW), to create high-quality components. Their innovative HSF® process, for instance, contours titanium profiles for airframe applications, significantly reducing material waste and machining time. Aries Manufacturing operates on a global scale, catering to a clientele that includes major aerospace manufacturers. The company is part of Aries Industries, which enhances its capabilities through a network of expertise in metal shaping and aerospace part production. With a focus on efficiency and quality, Aries Manufacturing is well-positioned to meet the demands of the aerospace sector.

15. Xdin

• Website: xdin.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Greensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: xdin-inc-

Xdin, founded in 1996 and headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a private engineering and IT consulting company. With a workforce of around 201-500 employees, Xdin specializes in providing tailored solutions in product development, analysis, and software development. The company serves a variety of sectors, including automotive, aerospace, energy, and telecommunications. In the aerospace sector, Xdin has demonstrated expertise in developing safety-critical solutions, contributing to projects involving control systems for GPS satellites and lifecycle analysis for aircraft engine components. Their consultants are equipped with relevant university education and extensive experience, allowing them to support global organizations effectively. Xdin operates with a commitment to understanding client needs and delivering high-quality engineering services, whether on-site or in-house.

16. Machine Specialties, Inc.

• Website: machspec.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Whitsett, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1969
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: machine-specialties-inc.

Machine Specialties, Inc. (MSI) is a precision parts manufacturer based in Whitsett, North Carolina, founded in 1969. The company specializes in contract machining and metal finishing, providing high-quality components to various industries, including aerospace, medical, and military. MSI is known for its advanced manufacturing processes, which include prototyping, tooling, milling, turning, grinding, and electrical discharge machining (EDM). The company has a strong focus on engineering support, ensuring that customer designs are manufacturable and meet stringent specifications. MSI's aerospace division produces critical components such as collar assemblies and landing gear parts, emphasizing their commitment to quality and precision. Their facility spans over 150,000 square feet, allowing for significant production capacity and the ability to handle large parts. MSI is certified to ISO 9001, ISO 13485, and AS 9100, reflecting their adherence to high standards in quality management. They also offer contract engineering services, enabling clients to leverage their expertise in developing machining processes. With a workforce of around 175 employees, MSI continues to be a reliable partner in the aerospace industry, meeting the demands of customers with quick turnaround times and a focus on service.

17. Keselowski Advanced Manufacturing

• Website: kamsolutions.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Statesville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: August 2024
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: keselowski-advanced-manufacturing

Keselowski Advanced Manufacturing (KAM), founded in 2018 and based in Statesville, North Carolina, is an advanced manufacturing company that specializes in additive manufacturing and engineering solutions. The firm operates a vertically integrated model, providing comprehensive support from design to production. KAM serves various sectors, including aerospace, defense, automotive, and energy, with a strong emphasis on innovative manufacturing technologies that enhance product quality and efficiency. The company is ITAR registered and holds AS9100D and ISO 9001:2015 certifications, demonstrating its commitment to high standards in manufacturing. KAM's capabilities include additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and a full suite of metrology services. Their team comprises skilled engineers and technicians who focus on creating custom solutions tailored to the specific needs of their clients. KAM has already begun working with customers in the aerospace and defense sectors, showcasing their relevance and adaptability in these critical industries.

18. Aviation Metals

• Website: aviationmetals.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: aviation-metals-inc-

Aviation Metals, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a family-owned company that has been operational since 1976. Specializing in aerospace metals and metal treatment services, they serve a wide range of clients, including airlines, government entities, FAA repair stations, and aircraft manufacturers. The company prides itself on its ability to provide high-quality metals and rapid service, particularly in urgent situations like AOG (Aircraft On Ground) requirements. With a robust inventory that includes various alloys and materials, Aviation Metals also offers value-added services such as cutting to size, heat treating, and chem-milling. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their AS9100D and ISO9001 certifications, ensuring they meet stringent aerospace industry standards. The company operates from a 40,000 square foot facility, emphasizing their capacity to handle complex and challenging purchase requirements efficiently.

19. Carolina Precision Machining Inc.

• Website: cpmmachining.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Mocksville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: carolina-precision-machining

Carolina Precision Machining Inc., established in 1994, is a private manufacturing company located in Mocksville, North Carolina. The firm specializes in precision machining services, catering primarily to the aerospace, aviation, and heavy equipment industries. With a workforce of 19 skilled employees, Carolina Precision Machining focuses on high-precision tooling work, offering both prototyping and full production runs. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their certifications in AS9100 and ISO 9001, which are essential for companies operating in the aerospace sector. The company employs advanced machining technologies and quality assurance processes to ensure that their products meet the exacting standards required by their clients. Their facility spans 45,000 square feet, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, enabling them to produce components that are critical for the operations of their aerospace clients.

20. Carver Machine Works, Inc.

• Website: cmwglobal.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Washington, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: carver-machine-works-inc.

Carver Machine Works, Inc., founded in 1976 and based in Washington, North Carolina, is a private metal fabricator that specializes in engineering and manufacturing services. The company focuses on precision machining, mechanical assembly, and equipment refurbishment, catering to various industries, including aerospace, defense, and nuclear. Carver Machine Works has built a reputation for enhancing operational efficiency and reliability for its clients. They have made significant strides in the aerospace sector, obtaining certifications such as AS9100 and NADCAP, which underscore their commitment to quality and compliance with industry standards. Their services include reverse engineering, design validation, and a range of welding processes, making them a valuable partner for aerospace projects that require precision and reliability. The company operates with a dedicated team of engineers and craftsmen, ensuring that they meet the specific needs of their aerospace clients while maintaining high standards of quality and service.

Aerospace Engineering Insights: Key Companies in North Carolina

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Collins Aerospace	Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)	10001+	1933	Corporate
UTC Aerospace Systems	Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)	10001+	2012	Corporate
USfalcon	Cary, North Carolina, United States (USA)	201-500	1984	Private
Curtiss-Wright Controls, Inc.	Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1929	Private
Fibreworks Composites LLC	Mooresville, North Carolina, United States (USA)	51-200	2009	Private
Quest One Aerospace	Holly Springs, North Carolina, United States (USA)	11-50	2004	Private
Iomax Usa	Mooresville, North Carolina, United States (USA)	11-50	2001	Private
Textum OPCO, LLC	Belmont, North Carolina, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private Equity
Tiger Precision Products	Mooresville, North Carolina, United States (USA)	11-50	2020	Private
Corvid Technologies	Mooresville, North Carolina, United States (USA)	201-500	2004	Private
US Cargo Systems	Goldsboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)	51-200	1948	Private
Northeast Tool & Manufacturing	Matthews, North Carolina, United States (USA)	51-200	1964	Family Owned
Icon Aerospace LLC	Indian Trail, North Carolina, United States (USA)	51-200	2009	Corporate
Aries Manufacturing	Monroe, North Carolina, United States (USA)	51-200	1998	Private
Xdin	Greensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)	201-500	1996	Private
Machine Specialties, Inc.	Whitsett, North Carolina, United States (USA)	51-200	1969	Private
Keselowski Advanced Manufacturing	Statesville, North Carolina, United States (USA)	51-200	2018	Corporate
Aviation Metals	Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)	11-50	1976	Family Owned
Carolina Precision Machining Inc.	Mocksville, North Carolina, United States (USA)	11-50	1994	Private
Carver Machine Works, Inc.	Washington, North Carolina, United States (USA)	51-200	1976	Private

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