Boeing Opens New Engineering Center at Embry-Riddle Research Park, Strengthening Aerospace Innovation and Regional Growth
Boeing has officially opened the doors of its new Boeing Engineering Center inside the Cici & Hyatt Brown Center for Aerospace Technology at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Research Park in Daytona Beach, Florida. The launch of this state-of-the-art facility underscores Boeing’s long-term commitment to the region, its dedication to advancing aerospace research, and its drive to cultivate a next-generation engineering workforce.
A Milestone for Boeing and the Local Community
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant moment for both Boeing and Embry-Riddle, as well as for the Daytona Beach community that has become an increasingly important hub for aerospace innovation.
“This day represents an important milestone for Boeing, Embry-Riddle and the broader Daytona Beach community,” said Dan Gillian, vice president and general manager of Boeing Air Dominance. “This engineering center will accelerate Boeing’s work on critical defense programs and deepen our partnership with Embry-Riddle, giving us access to an exceptional talent pipeline and enabling collaboration to drive aerospace innovation.”
Facility Details and Strategic Purpose
The 65,000-square-foot Boeing Engineering Center is designed to be more than just an office space. It will support a wide range of activities, including engineering design, advanced research, technology development, and prototyping. Its primary focus will be on Boeing Defense, Space & Security’s Air Dominance programs, but the facility will also extend to advanced aerospace technology projects that push the boundaries of future defense capabilities.
The center is expected to play a pivotal role in helping Boeing maintain its competitive edge in areas such as next-generation aircraft design, mission systems integration, and advanced prototyping for defense platforms.
Job Creation and Economic Growth
The center is projected to create approximately 400 high-paying jobs in Daytona Beach and Volusia County as hiring continues in the coming years. These roles will span across various engineering disciplines, providing opportunities for both seasoned professionals and recent graduates.
“Beyond creating high-paying jobs, these collaborations cultivate a dynamic exchange between students, faculty and industry leaders, ensuring innovation thrives at the intersection of education and enterprise,” explained P. Barry Butler, president of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. “We are delighted that Boeing’s new facility will draw on the rich pool of local talent and strengthen the vital pipeline between academic achievement and industry success—a partnership forged by the forward-thinking policies and steadfast support of both higher education and aerospace by the leadership of the state of Florida.”
Community Engagement and STEM Investment
Boeing’s presence in Daytona Beach extends beyond infrastructure and job creation. The company is also making a direct investment in the community, committing $100,000 toward new STEM programming for the Boys & Girls Club of Volusia/Flagler counties. Additionally, Boeing is partnering with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida to provide much-needed meals to students facing food insecurity. These initiatives highlight Boeing’s belief in uplifting local communities while inspiring future generations of engineers and scientists.
Embry-Riddle Research Park’s Expanding Impact
The Embry-Riddle Research Park has already proven to be a cornerstone of economic and technological growth in Florida. To date, the park has created nearly 2,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs and has generated more than $372 million in total economic impact for the state.
The arrival of Boeing further strengthens the park’s ecosystem, which brings together university researchers, students, entrepreneurs, and established businesses. This unique environment fosters collaboration across multiple disciplines, including aviation, aerospace, cybersecurity, commercial space exploration, and other STEM fields. With Boeing now a central participant, the park is poised to accelerate the pace of innovation while offering students real-world experience alongside global industry leaders.
