Salem Lands 90 New Jobs Through Expansion at Garmin International

This is Garmin International’s second expansion in Salem. In 2004, Garmin expanded its hangar space and hired about 16 employees.

Photos by: Kevin Hays

(SALEM) - Garmin International says it plans increase it’s workforce in Salem by 90 employees within the next four years.

Garmin AT will also spend some $9 million to expand it’s office building at 2345 Turner Road SE and hangar at the Salem airport.

The company currently employs 165 people.

“We are fortunate that the acceptance of our current aviation products has enabled this growth, and allowed us to make a greater contribution to the area,” said John Macnab, Garmin AT’s General Manager. “These construction projects will provide us with the space we need to continue developing products that lead the aviation industry in innovation, quality, and reliability.”

The new construction includes: A 54,000-square-foot expansion that will more than double its office and engineering lab space. It will be completed in the second quarter of 2008. A 12,000-square-foot expansion of the hangar is expected to be completed by the end of 2006.

Garmin produces hand-held Global Positioning System navigation devices popular with hikers. As well as navigation and communications equipment found in cars, corporate jets and marine vessels.

“Garmin AT has been a strong economic and community partner for the state of Oregon and I am pleased to see their expansion in the Salem area,” said Governor Kulongoski. “They are creating high-wage, skilled jobs for Oregonians.

“The Garmin AT expansion is welcome news for the Salem area job growth,” said Mayor of Salem, Janet Taylor. “It confirms that our region, through its highly coordinated State, Regional, and City resources, can provide companies with a significant competitive advantage.

For more information on Garmin International visit www.garmin.com