Aerospace Manufacturing Expansion: Sodern America Comes to Colorado

Global Space Technology Leader Sodern America Selects Colorado for U.S. Manufacturing Expansion

Colorado’s aerospace sector continues to gain international momentum as Sodern America — a subsidiary of global space equipment manufacturer Sodern — has chosen Douglas County as the site of its first U.S. operation.

The expansion positions Colorado at the center of the company’s North American growth strategy and further strengthens the state’s reputation as one of the nation’s most concentrated aerospace hubs.

Governor Jared Polis welcomed the announcement, noting Colorado’s network of more than 2,000 aerospace-related businesses that support national defense, civil space initiatives, and commercial satellite activity.

Advanced Optronic Systems Coming to Colorado

Sodern is internationally recognized for developing high-precision optronic technologies, including star trackers and space imaging systems used in commercial, civil, and national security missions.

The new Colorado operation will focus on assembling, integrating, testing, and commercializing these advanced systems for U.S.-based customers and partners.

Company leadership described the move as a strategic milestone in its long-term international development.

With a U.S. presence now established, executives say the company will be positioned to respond more efficiently to domestic demand while strengthening relationships across the American aerospace market.

Job Creation & Incentives

Sodern America is expected to create approximately 20 new high-quality jobs in engineering, production, quality control, supply chain management, and business development.

The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved performance-based Job Growth Incentive Tax Credits totaling up to $110,094 over eight years. The incentives are contingent upon the company meeting job creation and wage benchmarks. Douglas County is also providing local support to advance the project.

Regional Collaboration & Global Outreach

The project reflects coordinated efforts between the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, the Colorado Space Coalition, and Denver South. Engagement with Sodern began in early 2025 and extended internationally, including meetings during the 2025 Paris Air Show, where regional and state leaders promoted Colorado’s aerospace ecosystem, workforce pipeline, and long-term industry growth.

Regional economic development officials characterized the expansion as a competitive win for Colorado, noting the state outpaced Alabama, California, and Texas in securing the investment.

Strengthening Colorado’s Aerospace Ecosystem

Douglas County leaders emphasized that attracting advanced manufacturing operations in aerospace reinforces the region’s innovation economy and adds high-paying technical jobs.

Sodern currently employs approximately 470 people globally and had no existing Colorado workforce prior to this expansion.

With the addition of Sodern America, Colorado continues to solidify its standing as a national leader in aerospace technology, satellite systems, and defense innovation.