JGA Space & Defense to Expand in Huntersville, Creating Approximately 40 New Jobs

JGA Space & Defense, formerly Joe Gibbs Manufacturing Solutions, will expand its operations in Huntersville beginning in 2026, creating approximately 40 new jobs next year and anticipating an investment of more than $25 million in northern Mecklenburg County.

JGA is a leading manufacturer of advanced solid rocket motor insulators and nozzle assemblies, including precision machined parts for aerospace, space and defense applications. Torque Capital Group, a private equity firm, acquired Joe Gibbs Manufacturing Solutions in 2025 and rebranded the company to JGA Space & Defense.

“We’re proud to break ground on our new state-of-the-art facility in Mecklenburg County because this is where our business began and where we want its promising future to continue to grow,” said JGA Co-investor and Strategic Advisor Terry Culmone. “We are excited about the talent, infrastructure, and pro-business environment in Mecklenburg County, and today’s investment is our vote of confidence in the community that has supported JGA to date. We look forward to enhancing Mecklenburg’s manufacturing base and importantly supporting the region’s strong military presence, given the defense and space nature of our work.”

With headquarters already located in Huntersville, JGA has secured 60,000 square feet of modern manufacturing space in the town and will start utilizing it in the first quarter of 2026. The investment will enhance production capabilities, expand capacity for key customers, and drive job creation in the local community.

“We are thrilled to celebrate this success story. JGA Space & Defense’s decision to expand its operations, built on our strong local racing industry, will yield great dividends for our northern towns and entire county,” said Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners Chair Mark Jerrell. “This expansion is another clear reminder that Mecklenburg County is a place where new and evolving businesses can thrive and create real opportunity for our community.”

Among the new jobs are machinist, quality control, and engineering roles. The average salary is $55,000.

“We are so pleased that JGA Space & Defense is choosing to invest in Huntersville and help our community continue to thrive,” Mayor Christy Clark said. “We are grateful for the jobs they will bring to Huntersville and look forward to seeing them continue to innovate. This company started in Huntersville and is staying in Huntersville, and we are excited to watch how they continue to flourish and grow here.”

The project was a collaborative effort between Mecklenburg County, the Town of Huntersville, and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.

Mecklenburg County is the largest manufacturing employment center in North Carolina, and the industry continues to grow. Among the recent manufacturing projects supported by the County’s Office of Economic Development are AVL Manufacturing, HSP US and groninger, USA.