Vought Aircraft Industries and UTA have struck a deal that will give the University's Aerospace Engineering Program a presence in the company's Dallas manufacturing plant.

Vought and UTA will establish a research thrust that will allow faculty and students to collaborate with engineering teams on grant proposals and research and development projects.

The partnership, announced Feb. 26 at Vought's Dallas headquarters by company officials and Gov. Rick Perry, features the company's plans to expand its manufacturing site in Dallas and bring 3,000 jobs to the city. The Texas Enterprise Fund, a state initiative for economic development, will help provide funding.

At the heart of the partnership is a commitment to enhance UTA's Aerospace Engineering Program and other manufacturing-related disciplines in the College of Engineering.

"Together we will establish new endowed faculty positions to attract world-class faculty, who will help attract research and development contracts and grants in aerospace fields," UTA President James D. Spaniolo said.

Strategies include an on-site presence for UTA faculty and instructional programs at Vought's Design Center, establishing cooperative education programs for engineering students, and involving faculty and UTA's Manufacturing Assistance Center in Vought's efforts to remain globally strong.

UTA will contribute to the partnership on three fronts: education and workforce training; the discovery and application of new knowledge, materials and processes; and enhanced competitiveness in the 21st century.

"UTA faculty will be part of a team to optimize Vought's ability to be globally competitive," Spaniolo said.