Boeing plans job cuts for SLS workers, NASA slowed Artemis launch schedule
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — The Space Launch System — SLS — program in Huntsville is facing slowdowns after NASA pushed back its Artemis II and III launches.
Launch delays are impacting work rates for contractors on the project, including Boeing, which appears poised to reduce its workforce on the SLS project in Huntsville and other locations.
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The Artemis program is designed to return manned crews to the Moon, and eventually to Mars
Boeing confirmed Thursday that staffing changes are coming. The company employs 3,400 people in Huntsville. Boeing declined to say how many of those employees work on the SLS program and did not indicate how many jobs would be cut.
Boeing provided a statement to News 19.
“Due to external factors unrelated to our program performance, Boeing is reviewing current staffing and will be adjusting staffing levels on the Space Launch System (SLS) program,” Boeing said.
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NASA tells News 19 there are seven prime contractors for the SLS program, with 5,000 workers and about 2,300 of those workers are in North Alabama. It is not clear how the delays will affect employees of the other prime contractors.
Boeing’s SLS work is also transitioning from program development to production, which will affect the shape of its workforce. Boeing’s future work will include development of Artemis’s exploration upper stage.
NASA recently announced it is slowing down its launch schedule for the Artemis II rocket, moving the launch date from November 2024 to September 2025.
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