In an effort to drive implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies across its manufacturing footprint, GE (IW 500/7) announced on November 12 that is building a new facility just outside of Pittsburgh.
GE will invest $32 million over three years which will result in the creation of 50 high-tech engineering jobs initially, in disciplines ranging from mechanical and electrical to systems and software engineering. These technologists will join GE’s global network of 50,000 world-class scientists, engineers, and skilled labor personnel.
“Advanced manufacturing is driving a profound change in industry and at GE,” said Dan Heintzelman, GE vice chairman. “It is how we will compete and win in the future. We can more efficiently invent and build products for our customers, while driving better margins for our investors. This new facility is crucial for bringing advanced manufacturing technology to all our businesses.”
The facility will focus on improving capabilities and usage of additive manufacturing across GE while advancing materials sciences and inspection technologies. The site was chosen to “capitalize on the renowned academic institutions and skilled workforce in the area,” the company said. Construction is expected to begin in March 2015 to be completed by September 2015.
Pennsylvania is already home to more than 8,500 GE employees with significant presence from GE’s Transportation, Power & Water, Oil & Gas and Energy Management business.
GE has been investing in the U.S over the past two years establishing new Advanced Manufacturing locations for GE Power & Water in Greenville, SC; GE Aviation in Asheville, N.C. and GE Oil & Gas in Jacksonville, Fla.; while expanding work in GE Aviation in Auburn, Ala. and improving manufacturing at GE Aviation in Rutland, Vermont.
