By: Keri Zipay, Senior Director, Business Development
Northeast Ohio has emerged as a powerhouse in aerospace and aviation, not just because of its infrastructure, strategic location, and facilities, but because of its people. The region is in the top 3% of U.S. metro markets with active businesses in the aerospace industry. This success is driven by a deep bench of engineering talent, collaboration between industry and education, and a culture of innovation that turns ideas into flight-ready solutions.
Northeast Ohio provides a dynamic environment for both professionals looking to grow and businesses looking to expand in an industry taking flight. These opportunities took center stage at the Ohio Space Forum, part of Ohio Space Week, in September 2025.
The Ohio Space Forum brought together industry leaders, policymakers, educators, and innovators to explore how Ohio is driving the future of space exploration. Discussions focused on opportunities in Ohio, ranging from technology breakthroughs to communication needs. A central theme emerged from these discussions: Ohio’s space ambitions hinge on attracting, developing, and retaining talent.
A Talent Pipeline that Powers the Future
Universities like Case Western Reserve University, the University of Akron, Kent State University, and John Carroll University are producing top-tier talent in aerospace engineering, computer science, and advanced manufacturing – critical fields for next-generation aviation and space exploration. This education foundation supports a robust industry ecosystem with more than 11,000 people employed in the aviation and aerospace industry, 1,700 annual engineering graduates, 20-plus engineering campuses, and over 210 aerospace and aviation firms. Together, Northeast Ohio delivers both the scale and specialization needed to fuel the region’s growing space economy.
Northeast Ohio-based companies like Sierra Lobo, Inc. and Comsat Architects are proving how the Northeast Ohio talent advantage translates into real-world impact:
- Sierra Lobo, Inc. leverages the region’s engineering depth to deliver spaceflight hardware and testing services for suborbital, lunar, and advanced missions. Its close collaboration with NASA Glenn Research Center and recruitment from powerhouse institutions, such as Case Western Reserve University and the University of Akron ensures a steady stream of professionals ready to lead in a fast-evolving industry.
- Comsat Architects exemplifies how talent planning strategies and innovation go hand in hand. With 40+ employees and interns, Comsat maintains active partnerships with John Carroll University, Case Western Reserve University, and Kent State University, turning academic collaboration into breakthrough R&D.
These partnerships do more than fill roles—they build the next generation of space exploration. Internships, co-ops, and joint research projects create a key feedback loop between academia and industry, accelerating product development and cultivating the next generation of aerospace leaders.
Infrastructure Fueling the Future
Northeast Ohio’s talent advantage is amplified by its proximity to NASA Glenn Research Center—one of only 10 major NASA facilities nationwide. With over 3,000 employees and world-class testing capabilities, NASA Glenn offers companies direct access to wind tunnels, vacuum chambers, drop towers, and research aircraft hangars. The Neil Armstrong Test Facility in Sandusky spans 6,700 acres and houses some of the world’s most advanced space simulation environments.
This infrastructure supports operations while also empowering talent. Engineers and researchers working in Northeast Ohio gain hands-on experience with tools and technologies that are often inaccessible elsewhere, leading to accelerated learning curves.
Investing in the Future
Organizations like Team NEO, JobsOhio, and the Aerozone Alliance provide robust support for workforce development, site selection, and supply chain integration. Team NEO’s leadership extends beyond regional development to lead aerospace initiatives for the state of Ohio. As a key organizer of the Ohio Space Forum through the OrbitOhio collaborative, Team NEO fosters connections between federal, military, industry, and academic leaders to elevate Ohio and its significant space assets. These coordinated efforts support regional talent growth and business growth, helping companies recruit, train, and retain top-tier talent.
Major aerospace employers, including TransDigm Group, Parker Hannifin, and Howmet Aerospace, have already demonstrated the region’s ability to support complex manufacturing and engineering operations. Their success stories reinforce Northeast Ohio’s reputation as a region where talent meets opportunity and where space industry innovation continues to thrive.
Northeast Ohio’s Advantages
For aerospace companies evaluating expansion or relocation, Northeast Ohio presents a compelling value proposition:
- Immediate access to skilled talent trained in aerospace disciplines
- Collaborative university partnerships that drive innovation
- World-class testing infrastructure that enhances workforce capabilities
- A supportive business ecosystem that invests in people and progress
In Northeast Ohio, talent doesn’t just exist — it evolves, adapts, and accelerates industry growth. And for companies ready to lead the next era of aerospace innovation, that makes all the difference.