State Senator Kevin Kelly Tours Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation

Hartford – On March 2nd, State Senator Kevin Kelly met with members of Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation’s management team and then toured their Stratford facility.

“We all know the effects of the downturned economy, but touring Sikorsky is a welcomed reminder that there are thriving businesses right here in Connecticut,” said Senator Kelly.

At yesterday’s meeting, Senator Kelly had the opportunity to discuss how Sikorsky fits into Connecticut’s economy as well as the global economy. Jeffrey Pino, President of Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, highlighted his commitment to Sikorsky’s presence in the business community and also staying ahead of the technology curve by developing methods to maintain the company’s long term economic viability.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, owned by United Technologies Corporation (UTC), is a world leader in aircraft design, manufacture and service. Based in Stratford, Sikorsky employs 9,300 individuals in Connecticut and thousands more globally. Sikorsky Aircraft manufactures United States’ military helicopters like the Black Hawk, commercial helicopters used by businesses all over the world, and is a leader in aircraft support services and in implementing the latest in technology into flight design.

Pino also commented that, under UTC’s umbrella, Sikorsky is able to make necessary changes in order to keep up with the growing costs of the state’s economy. Recently, the Stratford facility activated 450 roof-mounted solar modules that will generate 106,250 kilowatt hours annually of clean renewable energy. The company also is installing a co-generation plant to produce its own electricity while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“Sikorsky is clearly on the cutting edge of technology both in the air and on the ground,” said Senator Kelly. “This is an organization that understands the effects of increasing energy rates and has made an investment that will not only save money going forward, but also will turn their business into an eco-friendly environment.”

After a brief presentation of Sikorsky’s business, Senator Kelly was given a guided tour of the Stratford manufacturing facilities.

“When touring the building, you can’t help but notice the strong community presence and commitment to producing the best product possible,” stated Senator Kelly. “Around every corner you will read, ‘We pioneer flight solutions that bring people home everywhere… every time,’ another reminder of the significance of the work produced.”

Senator Kelly also noted the importance of Igor Sikorsky by stating, “This man came to the United States with innovation and inspiration in his sights, and by 1923 built a business that has pioneered flight and technology, grown the state’s economy, created thousands of jobs and has become a world leader in its industry. This is exactly the type of business that we in the legislature need to foster and make certain never leaves our backyard.”

For more information about Sikorsky I encourage you to visit www.sikorsky.com.