$200M AI-powered factory coming to Mesa to bring 350 jobs

Article originally posted on AZ Central on July 18, 2025

An advanced manufacturing factory company announced July 17 it plans to create a facility in Mesa, which will represent a $200 million investment and create about 350 new jobs.

Hadrian, a company that creates artificial intelligence-powered factories to manufacture products in various industries, including aerospace and defense, will create a 270,000-square-foot manufacturing and software hub in Mesa. The company offers factory-as-a-service, meaning it works as a third-party manufacturer to scale production for companies in sectors like defense, aeronautics and shipbuilding.

The company works with components at every stage of manufacturing, from raw materials to finished products.

“America cannot afford to lose another generation of industrial capacity,” Chris Power, founder and CEO of Hadrian, said in a statement. “We’re building the factories that will secure American leadership in advanced manufacturing and create new jobs here in the United States. China is making massive bets on industrial dominance. The United States needs to respond not just with policy, but with production.”

Hadrian is leasing a building at the Cubes Mesa Gateway development, near Pecos and Crismon roads, east of Mesa Gateway Airport. The factory is expected to be operational in early 2026.

“Arizona’s thriving aerospace and defense sector plays a critical role in creating good-paying jobs and ensuring our national defense,” Sandra Watson, president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, said in a statement. “With a commitment to innovation and manufacturing excellence, Hadrian will strengthen Arizona’s aerospace and defense industry, and we are grateful the company chose Mesa for its advanced manufacturing facility.”

Hadrian also announced it is searching for a location for a 400,000-square-foot research and development headquarters, expected to be operational by January 2026. In addition to the new Mesa facility, the company already has operations in Torrance, California. Over the next year, the company plans to announce four to five additional facilities.

“Mesa is proud to welcome Hadrian’s Factory 3 to our city,” Mark Freeman, mayor of Mesa, said in a statement. “This $200 million investment and the creation of 350 high-wage jobs reinforce Mesa’s growing reputation as a national hub for advanced manufacturing and defense innovation. Hadrian’s presence marks a major step forward in strengthening America’s industrial base and Mesa is honored to help lead that charge.”