Atlantic Turbines International (ATI) officially opened the recent expansion of its Summerside-based corporation today. The expansion, which includes a new test cell and 20,000 additional square feet, was required to accommodate a contract for a second engine line which the company acquired in December 1999 - the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A engine.
Prior to being awarded this contract, ATI's single product was the PW100 series, a turboprop engine that powers many of the aircraft used by regional and commuter airlines worldwide. Adding the PT6A engine line, which happens to be the most popular series of turboprop engines ever produced , not only involved facilities expansion, but also represented the creation of 120 new jobs at the corporation. According to ATI President John MacDougall, it is the staff which has earned the organization a reputation of excellence.
"Our customers tell us we have the fastest turn-around times in the world," said MacDougall. "We tell them it's because of our dedicated work force and their productivity. Our success is all based on our people."
ATI finished its expansions in the fall of 2000, three months ahead of schedule. The hiring process for the project is also ahead of schedule as 70 new employees are already in place with an additional 50 staff to be hired over the next few years.
Premier Pat Binns attended the official opening and toured the expanded facilities.
The Premier noted his appreciation to ATI for the crucial role it plays in the Island's thriving aerospace industry and boosting the Provincial economy.
"This facility alone employs over 200 people and about 95 percent of the staff here are Islanders," said the Premier. "It's wonderful to see permanent jobs being created in the exciting aerospace industry which holds so much promise for PEI. In addition to creating employment, Atlantic Turbines helps increase the standard of living on the Island by creating a larger tax base and generating exports. There is no question that an investment in ATI is a wise one and the province is proud to be a part of this progress." From his office in Ottawa, Egmont MP Joe McGuire sent his well wishes to ATI and expressed his admiration of the organization's drive and success.
"The enhancement of our knowledge-based industries, including the aerospace industry, is key to our economic future," stated Egmont MP Joe McGuire. "Which is why the Federal Government is supportive of projects and companies that create high knowledge employment for Islanders and Canadians," remarked McGuire. "This expansion will allow Atlantic Turbines to continue to have a positive impact on the local and provincial economy. I wish ATI all the best and I am happy the federal government has been able to play a role in your success," added the MP.
ATI received federal assistance on this project through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency as well as the Canada/PEI Labour Marker Development Agreement, a co-managed agreement between Human Resources Development Canada and the provincial Department of Development and Technology. Provincial government investment in the project was through Prince Edward Island Business Development Inc, the lead business development corporation for the Province.
ATI was created in 1992 and has quickly established itself in the global aerospace industry. Year after year, it continues to build its reputation for quality work, excellent customer service and the quickest repair and overhaul turn times in the industry. In 2000, ATI serviced their 2,000th engine.