On August 28, 2025, Atlantic County marked yet another milestone in its ongoing efforts to diversify its economy with the signing of a memorandum of understanding to build an academic consortium to advance aviation technology, safety and workforce development.
Rowan University will work with the Atlantic County Economic Alliance and the National Aerospace Research and Technology Park (NARTP) in Egg Harbor Township to develop the framework for a coalition of research universities, government agencies, private sector businesses and nonprofit organizations. These partners will share their resources and expertise to advance the aerospace sector and provide opportunities for innovative collaboration and growth.
“We could not be more excited about the strides we have made in building a new industry and diversifying our economy,” stated Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson. “We are creating symbiotic relationships that are generating interest from around the country. This helps attract new business and investment, create jobs and strengthen our workforce.”
Construction of the second building at the NARTP, managed by the Atlantic County Improvement Authority, is underway and is expected to be completed early next year. A portion of the building will be occupied by the Aerospace Innovation Center (AIC), the state’s only strategic innovation center dedicated to the aerospace industry. The AIC will serve as the home base for the academic consortium’s activities.
The NARTP is located adjacent to the Federal Aviation Administration’s campus with connectivity to the world’s premier testing laboratories, as well as the Atlantic City International Airport, a federally designated smart airport test bed.
Levinson also noted that the development of air cargo maintenance and repair facilities on a 400-acre parcel at the airport could enhance the operation of the planned construction of an Amazon warehouse in nearby Hamilton Township.
“The Board of Commissioners and I firmly believe the advancement of the aerospace industry is the future of Atlantic County,” he said.
According to the county executive, the new consortium will further strengthen the area’s role in aerospace innovation with support of projects that may include the integration of artificial intelligence, robotics, digital engineering, unmanned aerial systems, cyber security, and more.
“The future of Atlantic County is bright. We continue to build an economy that offers broader and more sustainable opportunities for our children and grandchildren,” concluded Levinson.
