Governor Pence and 80/20 executives announce company's expansion

WHITLEY CO., Ind. (WANE) - Governor Mike Pence was in Whitley County Wednesday to help 80/20 Inc. announce its plans to expand and bring more jobs to the area.

This will make the company's third expansion in recent years. 80/20 will invest $11 million to build an additional 31,000 square feet to its existing 250,000 square-foot facility in Columbia City.

"This is just the most recent expansion at 80/20 and it's a great story about entrepreneurial success and the opportunity for growth in Indiana," said Gov. Pence.

The company will create up to 97 jobs by 2016. The new facility will have a training auditorium and more office space.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation is giving the Indiana-based company $725,000 in tax incentives and grants to create jobs. 80/20 will not be eligible for the incentives until it starts hiring.

The company has partnered with Whitley County Consolidated Schools and Ivy Tech to form a program to teach students skills using science, technology, engineering and mathematics. There are 130 students from area schools enlisted in the program. Gov. Pence said education is a major factor in economic growth and a focused area legislators are trying to implement.

"It's a real priority for our administration to enact legislation that will encourage more partnerships between businesses, high schools, and post-secondary institutions," said Gov. Pence.

Construction is expected to begin this April.

80/20 currently employs 329 full-time workers. The company plans to fill new positions later this spring. For more information on jobs that are available, visit their website .