Solar Turbines 90th Anniversary - Solar News and Press Releases

Solar Turbines was founded on November 13, 1927 as Prudden-San Diego Airplane Company. Today the company celebrates its 90th anniversary.

As a partner in the business and in the community, Solar has earned its spot in the industry. Solar is one of the world's leading manufacturers of industrial gas turbines with more than 15,000 units and 2 billion operating hours in more than 100 countries. With a team of more than 7,000 employees, Solar aims to power the future through sustainable, innovative energy solutions for the next 90 years.

Celebrating 90 years

Last week in San Diego, Solar hosted a community event to celebrate its 90th anniversary. Solar was founded in 1927 and although the business has expanded globally, headquarters has stayed in San Diego since.

Solar invited its community partners to its downtown San Diego facility. Guests included nonprofit partners like United Way, YMCA and Reality Changers, and educational partners like San Diego State University and City College. Community leaders from San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC), Chamber of Commerce, San Diego Regional Airport and Port of San Diego also joined the celebration. Caterpillar CEO Jim Umpleby and Caterpillar Group President Tom Pellette (both former Solar presidents) were also in attendance, as well as Steve Gosselin, another former Solar president.

Solar was recognized by the City of San Diego, the County of San Diego and the State of California.

State Senator Toni Atkins and Assemblymember Todd Gloria addressed event attendees and talked about why businesses like Solar are needed in San Diego and California, one reason being that Solar creates jobs and opportunities.

Additionally, Caterpillar CEO Jim Umpleby joined the Solar team in a fun employee celebration in downtown San Diego's Petco Park.

California Manufacturing Champion

California Manufacturers and Technology Association named Solar as the newest California Manufacturing Champion. Click here to view the press release and check out CMTA’s video, which includes a congratulatory message from California Governor Jerry Brown.

Connect with Solar Turbines

Want to learn more about Solar Turbines? Follow Solar on FacebookLinkedIn and Twitter to see updates as the Solar team embarks on the next 90 years!

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Solar team watching the 90th Anniversary video during the employee celebration.

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Solar held their 90th celebration in downtown San Diego's beautiful Petco Park.

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Solar team members enjoying the celebration

Solar team watching the 90th Anniversary video during the employee celebration.
Solar held their 90th celebration in downtown San Diego's beautiful Petco Park.
Solar team members enjoying the celebration