Siemens begins to restart production

Fort Madison facility to gear back up after legislation clears path

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FORT MADISON - New federal legislation has created a window for Siemens  Gamesa to once again reboot the Fort Madison facility.

According to a spokesperson for the corporation, Siemens has begun the process of returning the Fort Madison wind blade facility to production. Its Hutchison, Kan, nacelle facility will follow with a restart later.

"The passing of the Infrastructure  and Inflatation Reduction acts, combined with the pursuit of new orders, has allowed the company to begin re-hiring in Fort Madison at this time, the spokesperson said.

"Siemens Gamesa is working with local job placement agencies and Iowa Workforce Development to help speed up the process."

Siemens Gamesa plans to introduce two  production lines and have them operational before the end of 2022.

The parking lot at the facility was almost full Monday morning.

Officials didn't elaborate on the number of employees that would be rehired, but said all applicants will be evaluated based on their relevant knowledge, skills, experience, and abilities.

"Workforce levels will continue to be based on business volume and market demand," the spokesperson said.

The plant announced the layoffs of 171 employees on May 20. Those layoffs came on the heels of a large reduction in force at the Fort Madison facility where more than 30% of staff were laid off in February.

In July however, company officials indicated two letters of intent had been signed with customers that would possibly help restart the plant.

Supply chain issues, patent lawsuits, and a changing political environment all contributed to the plant's closure earlier this year.

Those who may be interested in working (or returning to work) at the facility, should visit the Siemens Gamesa Careers website (www.siemensgamesa.com), as well as the IowaWorks website (www.iowaworks.gov) or visit the IowaWorks office located in Westland Mall in West Burlington, Iowa.

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