FORT WORTH, Texas — The future just got brighter for North Texas students interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Governor Greg Abbott has officially announced that Bell Textron is the first company to benefit from the state’s Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation (JETI) Program. That means Bell Textron is on point to bring jobs, development, and millions in revenue to Fort Worth.
Governor Abbott joined Mayor Mattie Parker and other local leaders for the announcement at Bell’s Manufacturing Technology Center in Fort Worth Tuesday afternoon.
“This is truly a Texas-size investment in the future,” said Governor Abbott.
The JETI Program, enacted through House Bill 5, is designed to attract large-scale investments by offering companies tax incentives when they meet specific job creation and investment thresholds. Abbott emphasized that Bell Textron’s expansion fits perfectly within the program’s mission.
Bell Textron, which recently secured a multi-billion dollar defense contract to produce the V-280 Valor aircraft — a next-generation replacement for Black Hawk helicopters—will expand its operations in North Texas instead of relocating.
“We did a nationwide search to figure out where we wanted to go next,” said Bell CEO Lisa Atherton. “I am pleased to announce today that after looking at several different sites, we decided to stay home, here, in the great State of Texas.”
To keep Bell Textron in Fort Worth, the City Council approved a $46 million economic incentive package, which is expected to generate $16 million in new tax revenue over the next two decades and create hundreds of jobs. Bell’s application for the JETI award also included a non-refundable $30,000 fee, which goes directly to Northwest ISD.
Mayor Parker highlighted the importance of the deal for students and the workforce of the future.
“Our students will get to come alongside this project from the very beginning and be part of a fantastic company and workforce in the future,” Parker said.
City leaders emphasized that Bell’s decision to stay and invest in Fort Worth could catalyze more companies to follow suit.
“This means technology, jobs, it means development for our community,” said Fort Worth Councilman Alan Blaylock.
For STEM students across North Texas, Bell Textron’s investment represents a unique opportunity to engage with real-world innovation, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for a bright future in science and technology. The new facility will be located in the 15000 block of North Beach Street in Fort Worth.