Columbus, OH – Chicago-based Union Tank Car Company, North America’s leading manufacturer, lessor and maintainer of railroad tank cars used primarily by the chemical, petrochemical and food industries, has announced it will add a second facility in the Columbus Region. The company’s commitment also includes more than doubling its Central Ohio workforce, with the addition of 200 new jobs over the next three years.
“We have a quick need to expand into a second facility due to the industry’s changing landscape, and found the Columbus Region to be a strategic location to grow,” said Greg Cieslak, group president, Union Tank Car Rail Parts and Services. “The area offers access to the right workforce and real estate to fit our needs, and the Midwest location and rail infrastructure are convenient to our customers.”
The company’s expansion was prompted by new federal guidelines regarding the service of ethanol and crude oil tank cars. A second facility will be used to upgrade the tanks and safety measures on Union Tank Car Company’s existing fleet of tank cars to meet the new regulations.
“We’re happy to partner with Union Tank Car Company on its expansion and help secure some of the funding to make this project a reality in Central Ohio,” said Matthew Dietrich, executive director, Ohio Rail Development Commission.
Union Tank Car Company’s new facility will be located at 1207 Cheney Avenue in Marion. The company’s investment will include machinery and equipment and infrastructure costs at the new location. Union Tank Car Company will maintain its existing facility, located at 939 Holland Road in Marion.
As part of its investment, Union Tank Car Company has committed to adding 200 jobs to its existing roster of employees in Marion. The new jobs will include welders and technicians.
Union Tank Car Company is partnering with Tri-Rivers Career Center on a workforce development program to train applicants to fill the new positions. The training effort, led by Tri-Rivers Career Center, will be specific to the skills Union Tank Car requires for this project. Tri-Rivers Career Center is investing significant funds for new equipment related to the project, and OhioMeansJobs Marion County will provide funds specific to the training aspect.
Initial screening will take place at three locations – OhioMeansJobs Marion County, Tri-Rivers Career Center and Union Tank Car Company – with all applicants meeting eligibility requirements and successfully completing training guaranteed an interview with the company. That process is expected to begin in July 2015.
“Marion’s heavy manufacturing history and dedicated workers established a strong foundation for this business expansion project,” said Gus Comstock, director, Marion CAN DO!.
Ken Stiverson, president, Marion County Board of Commissioners, added, “Our centuries old rail road history and modern infrastructure make this an ideal project for the Marion community.”