Eaton, led by Craig Arnold, plans $18.5 million aerospace facility expansion

Key Points

• Eaton is investing $18.5 million to expand its Orchard Park aerospace facility, creating 77 skilled manufacturing jobs to meet rising defense and space demand.
• The expansion will boost production of critical actuation systems for U.S. Air Force and Navy programs, streamlining operations and supply chain resilience.
• The project caps Craig Arnold’s leadership at Eaton, as the retiring CEO leaves behind a company positioned for growth in aerospace, electrification, and defense sectors.

Eaton Corp., the intelligent power management company led by outgoing Chairman and CEO Craig Arnold, one of the wealthiest Black executives in the U.S., is investing $18.5 million to expand its aerospace mission systems facility in Orchard Park, New York. The project is aimed at meeting growing demand from military, aerospace, and space clients, while also deepening Eaton’s role in critical infrastructure and fast-growing industries.

Boosting defense capabilities and local jobs

The Orchard Park facility, which already employs more than 450 people and produces vital systems like oxygen and actuation equipment for aerospace missions, will be expanded by an additional 50,000 square feet. This upgrade will create 77 new skilled manufacturing jobs and increase production of advanced actuation systems—key components for U.S. Air Force and Navy programs.

U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.) praised the move, calling it a “monumental” boost to the local economy. He pointed out that the expansion not only strengthens national defense but also supports good-paying jobs in the community. By consolidating shipping, receiving, warehousing, and inventory into one location, Eaton also plans to streamline operations and make its supply chain even more resilient.

Kevin McKeown, senior vice president and general manager of Eaton’s Aerospace Group, said the expansion shows the company’s dedication to supporting defense needs. “We’re now ramping up to extend our actuation systems beyond the Air Force to serve the Navy as well,” he said.

A new chapter at Eaton

The expansion comes as Craig Arnold prepares to retire at the end of the month. Arnold, who has led Eaton since 2016, owns a 0.195 percent stake in the company, 765,791 shares valued at $224.41 million, highlighting his long-standing confidence in the company’s future.

Under Arnold’s leadership, Eaton has expanded into electrification, aerospace innovation, and sustainable power systems across more than 160 countries. His time at the helm has helped position the company to play a bigger role in critical industries for years to come.

With defense spending on the rise and a sharper focus on national security, Eaton’s Orchard Park investment is set to strengthen both U.S. military readiness and the future of aerospace innovation. By adding new capacity and a growing team, Eaton is putting itself at the center of America’s efforts to power the next generation of defense technology.