MACKINAC ISLAND, MICHIGAN, June 2, 2022 ~ United Auto Workers and Ford Motor Company leaders today announced plans to add more than 6,200 new US manufacturing jobs in the Midwest, convert nearly 3,000 temporary UAW-Ford workers to permanent full-time status, and provide all hourly employees healthcare benefits on the first day of employment.
The announcement came as part of a Mackinac Policy Conference panel discussion hosted by 760 WJR‘s Paul W. Smith.
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“We’re investing in American jobs and our employees to build a new generation of incredible Ford vehicles and continue our Ford+ transformation,” said Ford President and CEO Jim Farley. “Transforming our company for the next era of American manufacturing requires new ways of working, and together with UAW leadership, we are leading the way and moving fast to make improvements to benefits for our hourly employees and working conditions for our factory teams.”
These actions – which come more than a year ahead of 2023 contract negotiations – are part of the company’s Ford+ growth strategy, and include plans for an all-new global Mustang coupe and a Ranger pickup for North America.
This just a year after the company unveiled a plan to transform its global automotive business, accelerating the development and scaling of breakthrough electric and connected vehicles, while leveraging iconic nameplates to strengthen operating performance and take full advantage of engineering and industrial capabilities.
“We are thrilled that Ford is advancing its long legacy in Michigan by investing $2 billion to create 3,200 good-paying UAW jobs,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “I am proud that we came together to deliver economic development legislation that has helped us land huge projects creating thousands of jobs. With this announcement, Michigan has added nearly 25,000 auto jobs since I took office, and we continue to lead the future of mobility and electrification. Let’s continue in this spirit of collaboration to keep growing our economy, creating jobs, and advancing the future of mobility and electrification.”
Stay with 760 WJR for continuing breaking news coverage from the Mackinac Policy Conference.
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