How families at Aurora’s Mississippi facility contribute to advanced programs while shaping the site’s collaborative culture.
Aurora Flight Sciences’ manufacturing facility in Columbus, Mississippi plays a vital role in the company’s composite aerostructures and advanced fabrication work. The site supports critical aerospace programs while fostering a workforce deeply connected to the surrounding community. Within that workforce are several family members who have chosen to build their careers together, reflecting Aurora’s commitment to creating a workplace that values technical skill, collaboration, and long-term growth.
Aurora is proud to highlight three family pairs whose experiences demonstrate how those values take shape each day.
Dina Colombo and Garrett Newman
For Manufacturing Engineer Garrett Newman, working at Aurora has provided a firsthand look at the programs he grew up hearing about. “As I went through school at Auburn University, I realized it was not just ‘mom’s job’ but a unique and exciting role on a program that is revolutionizing autonomous flight,” he said. “When it came time for the job search, working here was at the top of my list.”
His mother, Project Manager Dina Colombo, has spent nearly 13 years at Aurora. Watching her son begin his career on the same program she supports has been both meaningful and motivating. “Reflecting on the journey from teaching him the basics as a child to now learning from him as an aerospace engineer is surreal and inspiring,” she said. She credits Aurora with providing opportunities for technical development and mentorship and looks forward to Garrett’s continued growth.
Jimmy and Peyton Price
Environmental Health and Safety Specialist Jimmy Price says working with his son has been one of the most rewarding parts of his career. “Every day, I feel proud to watch him grow while contributing to projects he was amazed by as a child during Bring Your Kid to Work Day,” he said.
Jimmy has watched Peyton progress from intern to his current role as an automated fiber placement (AFP) operator supporting advanced fabrication work. “I find it special to work at the same company as my dad,” Peyton said. “He played a big role in my decision to join Aurora. The stories he shared about the exciting work and the opportunities here really stood out to me. I am grateful to now be part of a team doing such meaningful work as I continue growing in my career.”
Stephen and Timothy Holifield
Stephen Holifield, a manufacturing engineer at the facility, says a family connection opened the door to new career opportunities. “My Uncle Timothy told me Aurora was hiring and thought I would be a good fit,” he said. “I applied, and the rest is history.”
Stephen began his career on the production floor, learning alongside his uncle, Principal Production Engineer Tim Holifield. That experience shaped his technical foundation and confidence. Today, he serves as a lead manufacturing engineer supporting production needs across the line. “I have learned so much from Timothy over the years,” Stephen said. “I am grateful for where I am today, and working with family makes it even better.”
A Facility Preparing for Its Next Chapter
These stories reflect the type of long-term commitment Aurora aims to support as the Mississippi facility prepares for its next chapter. A major expansion announced in 2024 is underway and on track for completion early this fall. The project will add new automation equipment, expand composite and fabrication capabilities, and increase overall production footprint to support future aerospace programs.
The expansion represents continued investment in the region and will create new opportunities for employees to grow their skills and careers. As the facility evolves, Aurora remains committed to fostering an environment where employees can thrive.
