June 26, 2009
New advanced manufacturing/software technology center in Van Buren Twp.expected to create 1,200 high-tech jobs
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that General Electric Company (NYSE: GE) has chosen Michigan for a new advanced technology and training center to be located at Visteon Village in Van Buren Twp. (Wayne County). The company plans to make a significant financial investment in the new center that is expected to create 1,200 direct jobs and more than 1,600 indirect and spin-off jobs, according to an economic analysis conducted by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
Joining the governor in today's announcement was GE Chairman and CEO Jeff Immelt, U.S. Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow, President Obama's Director of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers Ed Montgomery, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, Lt. Governor John D. Cherry, Jr., and other state and local officials.
"No state is working harder than Michigan to diversify its economy and create new jobs," Granholm said. "GE's decision to invest and grow in Michigan demonstrates that we have the high-tech workforce and competitive business climate necessary for global giants like GE to thrive in the 21st century."
The center will focus on the development of advanced manufacturing technology and software and information technology and will consolidate GE's experts in software development, data architecture, networking, business intelligence and program management. They will develop software to support GE's business operations for several advanced technologies. The site also will serve as a training hub for GE information technology professionals.
"To lead in manufacturing, grow our exports and create high-value jobs in the U.S., we must invest in technology and in people," GE Chairman and CEO Jeff Immelt said. "The scientists, engineers and technologists that will work and learn at this center will help GE develop innovative new software, processes and technologies to make our manufacturing businesses even more productive and competitive. Michigan is a great location for a technology center because of its world-class engineering, technical talent and public officials who understand that investing now will create tomorrow's leading positions in information technology, clean energy and transportation."
GE also will establish a research and development center at the site that will be part of GE's Global Research network. It will house scientists and engineers who will develop next generation manufacturing technologies for GE's leading aircraft engines, gas turbines, renewable energy and other high technology products. Such work will include development of composites, machining, inspection, casting and coating technologies for GE's Aviation and Energy businesses.
"With operations throughout the world, GE could have located this project in any number of states or countries," MEDC President and CEO Greg Main said. "The decision to invest and grow in Michigan puts us in a very elite class of business locations that can attract this kind of high-tech project."
Based on the MEDC's recommendation, the Michigan Economic Growth Authority (MEGA) board today approved a state tax credit valued at $73.9 million over 12 years to help win the project over competing sites in other states. Wayne County and Van Buren Township worked closely with the MEDC to win GE's investment, and both have committed to support the project.
The center is expected to open later this year. Software and IT staff will be located in existing office space at the site. GE expects to construct a 100,000-square-foot research center on the site to house its research and development activities.
About GE
GE (NYSE: GE) is a diversified global infrastructure, finance and media company that is built to meet essential world needs. From energy, water, transportation and health to access to money and information, GE serves customers in more than 100 countries and employs more than 300,000 people worldwide. GE is Imagination at Work. For more information, visit the company's Web site at http://www.ge.com.
About GE Global Research
GE Global Research is one of the world's most diversified industrial research labs, providing innovative technology for all GE's businesses. Global Research has been the cornerstone of GE technology for more than 100 years, developing breakthrough innovations in areas such as medical imaging, energy generation technology, jet engines and lighting. GE Global Research is headquartered in Niskayuna, New York, and has facilities in Bangalore, India, Shanghai, China, and Munich, Germany. Visit GE Global Research at www.ge.com/research.
About MEDC
MEDC, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and a high quality of life. For more information on the MEDC's initiatives and programs, visit www.TheMEDC.org.
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