Collins Aerospace cut the ribbon on a new Interiors facility in Lenexa, Kansas near Kansas City. Opened earlier this year and located in the Kansas Commerce Centre, the 279,000-square-foot facility is the U.S. centre of excellence for Collins' Interior Products portfolio – supporting galley inserts, oxygen systems and lighting product lines.

Collins has long had a presence in Lenexa, operating out of another location since the 1960s. The new state-of-the-art building more than doubles the square footage of the previous facility with room for future expansion. The new facility has a focus on engineering, new product development, unique manufacturing processes and a robust maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service area to strengthen the growth of Collins' Interior Products portfolio and aftermarket service and support organisation.

"This new facility is an investment in Collins, our customers and the Lenexa community we've called home for more than half a century," said Brad Haselhorst, vice president and general manager of Interior Products at Collins Aerospace. "We've been fortunate to be able to tap in to the talented and diverse workforce in the Lenexa and greater Kansas City area and look forward to the continued growth of our workforce here as we strive to better support our customers."

"Our state's place as the nation's leader in the aviation industry and our top-tier workforce make Lenexa the perfect location to build a brand new, state-of-the-art facility," said Governor Laura Kelly. "This announcement and the 60 jobs that it will create are great news for Lenexa and our state. I look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Collins Aerospace to create more high-paying jobs in Kansas and strengthen our growing economy."

There are currently more than 60 open jobs available at the site – with positions ranging from repair station technicians, to engineering, supply chain and manufacturing/assembly – with plans for future facility expansion and additional job availability as business needs arise. Production labour employees are eligible for a $1500 sign on bonus and all employees are eligible for the Collins Aerospace Employee Scholar Program, which offers free paid tuition and three hours of study time per week for continuing education at colleges and universities.

The new Lenexa site also includes office space, an expanded laboratory space, a large manufacturing floor and loading docks for more efficient distribution.