California, August 29, 2025
News Summary
California is experiencing a surge in its aerospace sector with the addition of 11,000 jobs projected between 2022 and 2024. This growth is primarily driven by startups and advancements in technology. Innovations in 5G and IoT are enhancing capabilities in the industry. The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation plays a key role in fostering collaboration and job expansion, particularly for underrepresented communities. The region maintains its historical significance in aerospace, attracting venture capital and innovative firms.
California is witnessing a remarkable surge in its aerospace sector, driven by an influx of space-related startups. According to the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), the aerospace and defense industries are projected to create 11,000 new jobs between 2022 and 2024. These positions are expected to come with lucrative salaries, averaging $141,110 per year, which is more than double the county’s average wage.
The LAEDC’s 2025 Economic Forecast Report highlights the resilience of Los Angeles County’s economy, as it adapts to various challenges, including wildfires and economic uncertainties. The forecast indicates that economic growth in 2024 will demonstrate the county’s capacity to meet future obstacles. Stephen Cheung, President and CEO of the LAEDC, emphasizes the importance of this growth in the face of ongoing challenges.
The SoCal Aerospace Council, part of the LAEDC, plays a crucial role in this growth by promoting collaboration among industry executives, labor organizations, and educational institutions. The council’s initiatives aim to foster a competitive aerospace industry and expand job opportunities, particularly for underrepresented communities in Los Angeles.
Technological advancements, particularly in 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT), are providing significant benefits to the aerospace sector. These innovations enable new capabilities for both startups and established companies, facilitating growth in various applications. Additionally, the tech requirements associated with the Space Force are opening up further opportunities for organizations within and outside the aerospace field.
Innovative companies are emerging in the area. For instance, Vast is working on fabricating the potential first commercial space station intended to orbit Earth, leveraging Long Beach’s aerospace heritage. Similarly, Varda Space Industries is focused on developing pharmaceuticals in microgravity, while AstroForge is set to conduct asteroid mining missions.
Historically, Southern California has been a cornerstone of the aerospace industry, having made significant contributions to the Apollo program and space shuttle production. The rise of SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk in 2002, has dramatically influenced local growth, even though the company’s main operations have shifted to Texas. Notably, over 128 companies in aerospace and related fields have been founded by former SpaceX employees, with 63 remaining active in Southern California.
Venture capital investments from prominent Silicon Valley investors are also fueling the growth of local startups. One notable example is Anduril, a company specializing in drone technology and autonomous defense systems, which recently achieved a valuation of $30 billion following a $2.5 billion funding round.
The aerospace and defense sector currently employs approximately 58,700 workers in Los Angeles County. While this figure is below historical peaks, it is accompanied by relatively high average wages. The city of Long Beach has adapted strategically by zoning changes, attracting around 30 advanced manufacturers, including several aerospace firms.
The transformation of Long Beach’s Smoky Hollow neighborhood further illustrates this shift from traditional refinery services to a burgeoning hub for aerospace and high-tech manufacturing. Companies like Varda Space Industries and AstroForge are examples of the thriving ecosystem that characterizes Southern California’s rich history in aerospace engineering and manufacturing.
Conclusion
The resurgence of the aerospace sector in Southern California, marked by the creation of thousands of high-paying jobs and the establishment of groundbreaking startups, is a testament to the region’s enduring legacy and capacity for innovation.
FAQs
What industries are creating new jobs in Southern California?
The aerospace and defense industries are set to add 11,000 jobs from 2022 to 2024.
What is the average wage for the new jobs in the aerospace sector?
The average wage for these new jobs is $141,110, more than double the average wage in Los Angeles County.
How is the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation involved?
The LAEDC provides economic forecasts and supports initiatives to strengthen the aerospace sector and create job opportunities.
What advancements are benefiting the aerospace industry?
Technological advancements like 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) are enabling new capabilities within the sector.
Why is Long Beach significant for aerospace manufacturing?
Long Beach has successfully attracted advanced manufacturers, transforming the Smoky Hollow neighborhood into a hub for aerospace and high-tech industry.
Key Features of Southern California’s Aerospace Sector Growth
| Feature | Statistic/Detail |
|---|---|
| New Jobs | 11,000 jobs created between 2022-2024 |
| Average Wage | $141,110 per year |
| Current Employment | Approximately 58,700 jobs in aerospace and defense |
| Valuation of Anduril | $30 billion |
| Funding for Anduril | $2.5 billion funding round |
| Companies Founded by Ex-SpaceX Employees | 128 total, with 63 active in Southern California |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: How the new space economy is transforming Southern California
- Bloomberg: Rocket Lab, Space Start-Ups Thrive in SpaceX’s California Wake
- SpaceNews: True Anomaly Opens Long Beach Factory Citing Proximity to Space Force Customers
- Payload Space: SoCal Will Be Space Central With or Without Elon, Experts Say
- Interesting Engineering: Startups Partner for Nuclear Powered Spacecraft
- Wikipedia: Aerospace Industry
- Google Search: Space Economy
- Google Scholar: Southern California Aerospace Jobs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aerospace Industry
- Google News: California Aerospace News
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
