MCLEAN, Va., July 31, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has announced its intention to establish a National Work Force Center in West Virginia, subject to final assessments and negotiations. The location assessments are currently being conducted within the I-79 high technology corridor through Wheeling.
This National Work Force Center is part of a new initiative by the company to provide high-quality, cost-effective technology centers within the United States as an alternative to off-shoring. As an American company performing national security work, Northrop Grumman has made it a priority to develop an alternative to the off-shoring business model. This unique solution -- National Work Force Centers -- is the first of its kind in the industry.
"Northrop Grumman's West Virginia National Work Force Center demonstrates our commitment to the state and the development of high-technology careers here," said Wes Bush, president and chief operating officer of Northrop Grumman. "As part of Northrop Grumman's investment, the company will partner with local universities and businesses to continue to enhance the state's technology work force."
Northrop Grumman will hire approximately 50 new full-time employees in West Virginia, with potential for growth in future years. Although the new jobs will be based in West Virginia, they will support the company's projects across the country. The company will be hiring information technology jobs initially, with expansion into other functional areas and disciplines in the future.
"West Virginia has long been blessed with one of the best work forces in America," said U.S. Congressman Alan B. Mollohan (D-WV). "Combine its scenic beauty, quality of life and loyalty to that work force and you can certainly see why Northrop Grumman has shown interest in West Virginia. I applaud the company for its efforts and look forward to a long and fruitful partnership between West Virginians and Northrop Grumman."
"I am very pleased that Northrop Grumman has chosen to expand its operations in West Virginia," said U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd. "This well-respected company has made a wise decision to capitalize on the enormous talent and ingenuity that we have in the Mountain State. I applaud Northrop Grumman for taking the opportunity to produce high-tech products in the state and for making an investment that will strengthen West Virginia's economy."
Northrop Grumman Corporation is a $30 billion global defense and technology company whose 120,000 employees provide innovative systems, products, and solutions in information and services, electronics, aerospace and shipbuilding to government and commercial customers worldwide.