After a few turbulent years at Sikorsky that included a change in ownership and significant layoffs at its commercial helicopter operation in Coatesville, the tide seems to have finally turned for the helicopter manufacturer, writes Brian McCullough for the Daily Local News.

While there was some uncertainty when Lockheed Martin bought the company, it has proven to be a good fit.

According to Audrey Brady, who took over Coatesville Sikorsky operations almost to two years ago, the company has weathered the storm, and its Coatesville facility is currently in the process of hiring again.

“That’s very exciting news for us,” said Brady. “There are a lot of opportunities here. Not just for engineers, but for the office support functions.”

The company is currently pushing aggressively into the EMS, search and rescue, and VIP segments to counter the downturn in the oil exploration market.

This has led to a facility full of helicopters in various stages of completion. These are keeping workers busy painting, wiring, and assembling at the Coatesville plant.

“This building was completely empty when Lockheed Martin bought it,” said Brady. “Now it’s completely full. That’s success.”

Read more about the turnaround at Sikorsky in the Daily Local News here, and check out previous VISTA Today coverage of Sikorsky here.