Defending Air, Land & Sea in Elizabeth City, NC

Veterans find new opportunities for careers in this North Carolina city.

By Wesley Broome on April 26, 2023

For veterans and transitioning military personnel, Elizabeth City is a hub of opportunity. The U.S. Coast Guard has an air station here, one of the busiest and most far-reaching in operation. Major employers in the defense and security sectors provide ample opportunity for military personnel transitioning toward a career that values the experience and knowledge of a veteran.

From persistent airborne surveillance to maritime fleet readiness, these companies deliver support to the U.S. military with help from a knowledgeable workforce. For individuals with experience defending the land, sea and air, these companies may provide the right fit for a fulfilling career.

More Ways to Serve

With offices in Elizabeth City, VectorCSP’s domain covers both the air and sea. VectorCSP helps U.S. military and government entities determine the “cost, schedule and performance” of their maritime and aviation missions.

Founded by leaders in business and military fields, the company still values the experience and knowledge that veterans bring to its workforce. Employees experienced in seamanship, aeronautics, engineering and avionics integration play important roles in the company.

As a recipient of a HIRE Vets Medallion – the only federal-level veterans’ employment award that recognizes a company or organization’s commitment to veteran hiring – VectorCSP has been recognized as a company committed to the hiring and professional development of veterans.

Shannon Kearney/Coast Guard News/Flickr.com

Surveilling from Above

With a focus on persistent airborne surveillance, TCOM is one of the largest employers in the area. The company operates in over a dozen countries around the world, with a Manufacturing and Flight Test Facility (MFTF) based in Elizabeth City.

Located on 225 acres, TCOM’s Elizabeth City facilities include a massive 300,000-square-foot hangar. These facilities have become an important hub for aerostat maintenance on the East Coast. TCOM also conducts on-site training for the customers that utilize its technologies. Telephonics operates its Technical Support Services Center in Elizabeth City, which is also the hub of the company’s North Carolina operations. Opened in 2010, the 22,000-square-foot facility is used for demonstrations, repairs and maintenance.

Telephonics has provided air, land and sea surveillance and intelligence solutions for U.S. armed services around the world since 1933. In 2022, Telephonics was acquired by TTM Technologies Inc. The acquisition broadened the scope of TTM’s presence in the defense sector, which was already an important part of Elizabeth City’s industry.

TTM is a leading manufacturer of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other advanced technologies utilized by aerospace and defense systems. These technologies are used in everything from commercial aerospace systems to missile and radar systems.

Beyond Defense & Security

Another significant employer of veterans in the region is Wells Fargo, with several locations in Elizabeth City. The Veteran Employment Transition (VET) Program is a remote internship that prepares veterans for a role with Wells Fargo. The eight-week program is offered in the spring and fall of each year.

Wells Fargo encourages military personnel of all ranks to apply, as there are opportunities at multiple levels within the company. The VET Program provides networking as well as training; teamwork is an important aspect of the internship.

The range of benefits offered by these companies reflects their dedication to their employees. TCOM’s uniquely structured workweek allows for the company to close every other Friday, while offering a full benefits package including medical and retirement plans. In addition to a generous benefits package, VectorCSP also offers tuition reimbursement for work-related instruction. From land to air and sea, opportunities in Elizabeth City abound for veterans seeking to continue their service in the defense and homeland security sectors and beyond.