Embraer’s Fort Worth expansion exemplifies how corporate growth can translate into expansive local impact. From workforce training to educational partnerships, Embraer’s commitment to community involvement highlights how economic development projects invest in the communities that help them succeed.
By Katie McConnell, Director of Legal & Research | February 17, 2026
When companies relocate to or expand within Fort Worth, the benefits extend well beyond jobs and capital investment. Corporate growth often becomes a catalyst for long-term community engagement, multiplying the impact of the initial economic development project.
Embraer’s recent grant to Tarrant County College (TCC) provides a clear example of how economic development can translate into meaningful, lasting community impact beyond the direct benefits to the local economy.
In 2024, Embraer announced a significant expansion of its Fort Worth presence, bringing an investment of $70 million and 250 new jobs. Since that announcement, the company has made steady progress on the ground. Construction on interim facilities has been completed, operations have begun, and work on Embraer’s primary Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Perot Field is underway and, according to company representatives, is “progressing extremely well.”
Turning Economic Development into Workforce Opportunity
As Embraer continues to expand its operational footprint in Fort Worth, the company has also moved quickly to engage with the community—particularly around workforce development.
That commitment is evident in Embraer’s recent investment in Tarrant County College, which supports student scholarships in the college’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program. Embraer leaders explained how the grant “is rooted in Fort Worth’s critical role within the North Texas aviation ecosystem.” They point to TCC as “a key workforce engine for the region,” noting the college’s role in preparing skilled aviation maintenance technicians through its Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification program.
By supporting scholarships through the Embraer Foundation alongside other partners, the company is helping lower barriers to entry for students pursuing aviation careers. These scholarships help students complete training, earn certifications, and move into high-demand, well-paying roles—benefiting both individual families and the broader regional economy. As Embraer establishes its new MRO facility in Fort Worth, company representatives emphasized how “investing in locally trained talent strengthens the region’s long-term competitiveness.”
A Commitment to Community Impact
This investment reflects Embraer’s broader philanthropic strategy, which is closely aligned with its business growth in communities like Fort Worth. Through the Embraer Foundation, the company directs resources toward initiatives that support education, workforce readiness, and community partnerships. As company representatives explained, “through the Embraer Foundation, the company invests in education, workforce development, and community partnerships that directly support regional economic vitality.” They added that “by expanding access to STEM education and aviation career pathways, Embraer’s philanthropy supports sustainable growth for both the company and the broader Fort Worth economy.”
Embraer’s experience in Fort Worth mirrors what the company has seen in other locations, according to the company. “The greatest impact occurs when companies operate as both employers and engaged community partners,” they explained. The company noted that “this dual role helps align workforce development with real industry needs, strengthens relationships with educational institutions, and fosters employee pride and retention.” In regions like Fort Worth—where aviation and advanced manufacturing are key economic drivers—this approach contributes to long-term economic resilience.
Another example of Embraer’s community engagement strategy is its support of the DreamLaunch Tour through the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center. In partnership with FAA Aviation Ambassador Jamail Larkins, the program reaches students across Dallas–Fort Worth, introducing them to aviation careers at an early age. By exposing young people to opportunities in high-skill, high-growth industries, the program helps build awareness and interest in career pathways that will shape the region’s future workforce.
Embraer also credits early engagement with the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership as an important factor in its expansion decision. Company leaders shared that “early engagement with Fort Worth EDP was key to our full understanding of the benefits and opportunities available in the Fort Worth and Dallas Metroplex as a whole.” By connecting early with local colleges, K–12 partners, and community organizations, Embraer noted that companies are better positioned to understand workforce needs, build trust, and align training efforts with industry demand.
Investment in Economic Development Leads to Multiplication of Community Giving
Embraer’s story illustrates how initial investments in economic development can generate broader returns over time. Beyond job creation and capital investment, Embraer leaders emphasized that “welcoming a company like Embraer brings meaningful ripple effects to Fort Worth.” They noted, “first and foremost, we see ourselves as quality stewards of the community and the environment. Our presence supports local talent development, strengthens partnerships with educational institutions, and encourages sustainable practices that align with the city’s long-term vision.”
The company’s presence also contributes to supplier attraction, small business activity, and Fort Worth’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing. As Embraer representatives summarized, “the impact extends well beyond economics—it’s about contributing to a resilient, future-ready community where people and businesses can thrive together.”
Looking ahead, Embraer sees continued opportunity for growth in Fort Worth. As company leaders put it, “where we go, we grow.” With a strong foundation of talent, partnerships, and community engagement already in place, Embraer remains committed to expanding alongside Fort Worth as the city continues to strengthen its position as a center for advanced aviation and technology.
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Katie McConnell is the Director of Legal & Research at the Fort Worth Economic Development Partnership. The Fort Worth EDP works directly with companies, site selection consultants, and corporate real estate professionals who are interested in moving or expanding to Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and the surrounding areas. If you’d like to learn more about Fort Worth, please schedule a meeting with us or check out our Why Fort Worth page.
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