University of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla: Taking Flight as a Catalyst for Puerto Rico’s Aerospace Growth
The aerospace and aeronautics sector is a key part of Puerto Rico’s economic development strategy and vital to the island’s global value proposition. At the heart of this, the University of Puerto Rico at Aguadilla (UPR Aguadilla) has emerged as a leader in cultivating the skilled workforce needed to propel the sector forward.
With a recent $3.5 million investment to expand its Aeronautics and Aerospace program, UPR Aguadilla is positioning itself as a hub for advanced education and training, setting the stage for Puerto Rico to become a global leader in aerospace innovation and excellence.
Advancing Education with Cutting-Edge Curriculum
UPR Aguadilla will introduce a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Information Technology in 2025. This new degree will prepare students for careers in avionics, manufacturing, and aerospace engineering. The program also focuses on areas like data management and cybersecurity to meet the growing demand for technology skills in the aerospace field.
The program will provide students with hands-on training and a curriculum designed to meet the aerospace industry’s needs. Students will gain practical experience using advanced equipment, such as a Gulfstream III aircraft, turbine engines, landing gear systems, and flight simulators. It is designed to provide training that meets standards seen at top aerospace institutions in the mainland, such as Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Purdue University, and others.
UPR graduates are highly sought after by top aerospace companies, with job placement opportunities spanning roles in propulsion systems, avionics, aircraft maintenance, and systems integration. Thanks to the university’s partnerships with industry leaders, students receive direct pathways to careers with companies like Honeywell Aerospace, Collins Aerospace, and Lufthansa Technik.
Addressing the Growing Demand for Aerospace Talent
Puerto Rico’s rapid aerospace industry growth highlights the urgent need for a robust and skilled workforce. Over the past decade, the aerospace workforce in Puerto Rico increased from approximately 700 to 6,000 employees, underscoring the sector’s exponential expansion.
Honeywell Aerospace offers a compelling case study of success in Puerto Rico. Since relocating its Americas Aftermarket HQ to the island in 2007 with just 12 employees, the company has expanded to employ over 1,000 people. Honeywell’s internship program has also proven highly effective in workforce development, with approximately 70% of interns transitioning into full-time employees by the end of their internships.
This remarkable growth exemplifies the demand for well-trained professionals and emphasizes the importance of institutions like UPR Aguadilla in meeting the needs of the industry.
Partnerships Supporting Aerospace Growth
UPR Aguadilla’s efforts are part of a broader collaboration between academia and industry leaders to shape future talent for aerospace and support the sector’s growing needs in Puerto Rico. Other notable initiatives include:
- University of Puerto Rico Humacao (UPRH) and Penn State University: This partnership allowed the UPRH to introduce an associate degree in Electronic Technology and Nanotechnology. This program aligns with the industry’s push toward innovation and prepares students for specialized roles in nanotechnology and advanced electronics.
- Collins Aerospace and Engine-4: Collins Aerospace teamed up with the innovation center Engine-4 to host specialized camps for college students, providing immersive learning experiences in aerospace technologies at their Bayamón facility.
- Pratt & Whitney Aguadilla Engineering Center: Pratt & Whitney has invested significantly in Puerto Rico’s aerospace education ecosystem, including a $500,000 donation to the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez for an aerospace teaching laboratory. This facility is designed to train the next generation of mechanical and electrical engineers specializing in propulsion systems.
The Thriving Aerospace Industry in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s aerospace sector is rapidly expanding, supported by a robust infrastructure and a growing network of globally competitive companies. The Aguadilla Aerospace Industrial Park houses key players such as Honeywell Aerospace, Collins Aerospace, and Pratt & Whitney, benefiting from the island’s highly skilled workforce, FAA-compliant training programs, and proximity to U.S. markets.
The island’s aerospace cluster drives this growth, facilitating collaboration between academia, industry, and government. This ecosystem enhances Puerto Rico’s ability to attract investment while reducing reliance on traditional industries.
Fueling Economic Growth and Innovation
UPR Aguadilla’s programs are integral to Puerto Rico’s broader economic objectives, contributing to:
- High-Value Job Creation: Graduates secure well-paying positions, fostering economic mobility and growth.
- Economic Diversification: The aerospace industry reduces Puerto Rico’s reliance on traditional sectors, positioning the island for sustainable, technology-driven development.
- Global Competitiveness: With its FAA-aligned training programs and U.S. regulatory compliance, Puerto Rico continues to attract top aerospace companies and investors worldwide.
A Bright Future for Aerospace in Puerto Rico
The growth of Puerto Rico’s aerospace sector aligns with Invest Puerto Rico’s mission to solidify the island as a destination for global investment and innovation. UPR Aguadilla’s role in developing a world-class aerospace workforce strengthens the island’s ability to deliver on this promise. Through strategic partnerships, cutting-edge programs, and robust infrastructure, Puerto Rico continues to build its reputation as a hub for high-tech industries. UPR Aguadilla is a testament to what’s possible when education, innovation, and economic strategy come together.
Contact us today to learn more about Puerto Rico’s aerospace opportunities and how Invest Puerto Rico can help your business take off.
