Collins Aerospace, a global leader in aerospace and defense technology, is making a major investment in North Texas. Governor Greg Abbott recently announced that the company, operating as Rockwell Collins, will expand its manufacturing and R&D operations in Richardson and Collin County. The project is expected to bring more than 570 high-paying jobs and inject over $57 million in capital investment into the region.
“Texas is ranked as the No. 1 state for attracting aerospace manufacturing,” said Governor Abbott in an official statement. “This $57 million investment by Collins Aerospace to expand their manufacturing and R&D operations in Richardson will create more than 570 good-paying jobs for hardworking Texans and deliver innovative solutions right here in Texas. Partnering with industry leaders, we will ensure Texas remains the hub for aerospace, aviation and defense for generations to come.”
State and Local Support Help Seal the Deal
To help land the expansion, the Texas Enterprise Fund awarded the project a $3.7 million grant. The city of Richardson also provided a local incentive package worth more than $1.8 million, including real and personal property tax rebates, inventory tax rebates and a job creation grant.
“The support from the State of Texas and the City of Richardson made the decision to expand our footprint an easy one,” said Philippe Limondin, vice president and general manager for Strategic Solutions at Collins Aerospace. “The state’s commitment to aerospace and defense is key to our continued success.”
Two Sites, One Vision
The company plans to renovate and expand two existing facilities in Richardson, on E. CityLine Drive and E. Renner Road, to support a pair of federal contracts. Activity will ramp up over the next five years, reinforcing the area’s strength in innovation and national defense.
“This expansion is a powerful testament to the strength of our business environment and the talent pipeline that supports it,” said Richardson City Manager Don Magner. “We’re proud Collins Aerospace continues to see Richardson as a place to call home.”
Richardson's Economic Strategy in Action
This move aligns with Richardson’s long-term focus on cultivating high-wage, clean industries like aerospace, advanced manufacturing and technology. With over 1,100 businesses and key partners like the University of Texas at Dallas and Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART), the city continues to strengthen its reputation as a technology and innovation hub.
Targeted industry clusters that benefit from expansions like this include:
- Advanced and Additive Manufacturing
- Professional and Financial Services
- Health and Life Sciences
- Technology and Software
- Research and Development
Why Richardson
According to the city, from its strategic location to a pro-business culture, Richardson offers companies the tools to grow and innovate.
- Location: Centrally positioned in North Texas, Richardson offers easy access to highways, DART light rail and two major airports.
- Industry Clusters: Home to major employers like Raytheon, State Farm, Texas Instruments and Fujitsu.
- Educated Workforce: With the University of Texas at Dallas nearby, companies have access to a skilled talent pipeline.
- Innovation Infrastructure: The Richardson Innovation Quarter (The IQ) supports startups, research and Smart City tech.
- Pro-Business Policies: Incentives, fast permitting and tools like Chapter 380 agreements and TIFs make Richardson expansion-friendly.
- Economic Stability: Diversification across sectors ensures resilience in both strong and uncertain markets.
Incentives for Future Investors
Richardson continues to offer a variety of incentives for businesses making a significant local impact. Through its Economic Development Department, the city supports:
- Building modernization
- Tenant improvement
- Permit fee waivers
- Job creation grants
Each application is reviewed for alignment with the city’s economic growth goals and long-term competitiveness
As Collins Aerospace deepens its roots in Richardson, the announcement affirms the region's role as a growing epicenter for aerospace, advanced manufacturing and innovation-driven enterprise.
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