Ultium Cells Project Earns National Recognition
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ultium Cells plant in Lordstown is one of six Manufacturing Projects of the Year nationwide, as named by AreaDevelopment.com.
The $2.3 billion plant, currently under construction, is a joint venture between General Motors and LG Chem. It will produce battery cells for electric vehicles and bring 1,100 jobs to the Mahoning Valley.
Ohio was also honored with a Silver Shovel award by Area Development in recognition of the state’s impressive roster of economic development projects begun in 2020.
“The Ultium Cells project demonstrates confidence in Ohio to be a global leader as automotive manufacturing worldwide evolves toward increased electrification of vehicles,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “This outstanding project will attract foreign investment, the very latest in advanced electrical battery technology, and 1,100 new jobs while laying the ground for future growth in Ohio as this technology evolves.”
Gold and Silver Shovel awards are presented annually to the states that have achieved the most success in terms of new job creation and business investment.
Each of the 50 states was invited to submit information about its top 10 job creation and investment projects in 2020. JobsOhio submitted projects representing more than 9,290 jobs and more than $5.4 billion in investment across seven industries: energy and chemicals, logistics and distribution, e-commerce and distribution, health care corporate offices, food sciences, steel and business services.
“Ohio’s post-pandemic economic recovery is emerging strong and Area Development’s recognition with both a Silver Shovel and a top project in the nation is more evidence that this state is standing out and leading,” said J.P. Nauseef, JobsOhio president and CEO. “Ohio’s economic momentum continues to build from a strong 4th quarter last year as more companies are realizing our state’s value proposition and choosing to be part of the ‘Ohio difference.’ ”
Ohio was among 12 states to earn a Silver Shovel. Five states, each representing a different population group, were awarded Gold Shovels. Shovel awards are given to the states with the highest weighted scores based on the number of high-valued added jobs per capita, amount of investment, number of new facilities and industry diversity.
Pictured: Overhead shot of the Ultium Cells LLC construction project.
Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
