At a time where many manufacturing companies are eliminating jobs, AirBorn Inc. is flourishing.

"Our growth is outpacing our industry as a whole," said AirBorn Inc. Director of Operations Jon Nelson.  “We’re thrilled to be employing a professional group of quality-minded individuals.”

The Lake City company's 150 employees assemble electronic connectors and cables for military vehicles, aerospace and commercial airlines, and medical equipment.

With business booming, Nelson is now planning to add 50 second shift employees.

"We're looking to fill all types of positions, from assembly to inspectors, to maintenance folks, really the whole gamut of the employee spectrum here,” said Nelson.  “The pay range varies depending on the experience and abilities, but we pay from $11.00 to $13.00 an hour for entry level positions.”

According to Nelson, company will provide on-the-job training for those without experience.

"We have 100% skilled assembly workers, so it's actually a career path that you can have,” said AirBorn Inc. Talent Acquisition Manager Chad Lyon.  “From starting off, if you start at an entry level here, you'll be working with engineers as you continue to grow within the organization."

As AirBorn Inc. aims to hire additional workers, the Erie Regional Manufacturing Partnership is also hoping to help local companies fill job openings.

"Four years ago, the ERMP put together a core of 20 companies that are addressing this issue of workforce development.” said ERMP Officer Jim Willats. 

Many companies---like AirBorn Inc.--- are working with local high schools to provide access to jobs.

“We're looking for people right out of school,” said Nelson.  “We're actually working with some of the schools to get our name out in the schools and get people interested in manufacturing."

AirBorn Inc. hosted a job fair on Tuesday, but they are also accepting additional applications.

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