Henderson County, NC – Cummins-Meritor, a leading global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking, aftermarket and electric powertrain solutions for commercial vehicle and industrial markets, announced plans to further invest in its Henderson County location. Since opening its doors in 1982, Meritor established itself as an integral part of the local economy by providing high-quality, high-paying careers to Henderson County citizens. The company will continue this 40-year legacy with the addition of 40 new jobs included in its more than $40 million machinery and equipment investment. The average wage of the new positions is expected to exceed the county average wage. The company’s investments will take place from 2022-2026.
“There is no doubt that today’s market is a challenge. We are pleased that despite challenges, Cummins-Meritor’s leadership wants to continue investing in Henderson County,” said Richard Robinson, Director of Operations for Meritor in Fletcher, NC.
Cummins-Meritor represents 70% of Class 8 commercial vehicle axles on the road in North America. The facility in Henderson County has close to 500 employees. The investment will be focused on new technologies that will enhance production capabilities and accelerate the Smart Factory model that many companies are adopting in order to remain competitive in today’s market.
“Existing industry is the heartbeat of Henderson County. The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development is focused on companies having the tools and resources to be successful. Cummins-Meritor is a prime example of a company embedding itself in the community through programs like the Made in Henderson County Apprenticeship Program. We look forward to a bright future,” claimed Stephen Gwaltney, current Chair for Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development.
In October, the company celebrates 40 years in Henderson County. Based in Troy, Mich., Cummins-Meritor serves commercial truck, trailer, off-highway, defense, specialty, and aftermarket customers around the world. The Henderson County facility uses advanced manufacturing processes in its assembly, gearing, and axle housing operations.
Henderson County Board of Commissioners Chair, Bill Lapsley, said, “Before I was a commissioner, I was a civil engineer, and the Rockwell Project (Meritor) was a project that I worked on. This is what economic development is all about, seeing companies grow here and take care of our citizens with quality jobs. It is a special moment to celebrate 40 years with more investment in Henderson County.”
The project was supported by economic development assistance grant in Henderson County, the OneNC fund, and customized training from the North Carolina Community College System via Blue Ridge Community College.
ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP
The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development, Inc. is a 501(c)6 organization that works to: retain and attract quality jobs; solicit new business compatible with the assets and values of Henderson County; promote Henderson County’s business image; assist expansion of existing companies; and enhance Henderson County’s overall quality of life. Since 1993, it has assisted in the creation and retention of over 3,500 jobs and in bringing almost $1 billion of taxable investment to Henderson County.