The Ford Motor Company and the United Auto Workers union today announced plans to add more than 6,200 new manufacturing jobs in the Midwest. Ford is also planning to invest $3.7 billion in the region to prepare for the production of vehicles like the next-generation Mustang.
In addition to adding more jobs, Ford also announced that it will convert nearly 3,000 temporary UAW workers to permanent full-time status and will provide all hourly employees healthcare benefits on the first day of employment.
The actions come just a year before the UAW and Ford are set to start contract negotiations. That’s when the two entities would normally make such announcements. Whatever the reasoning, though, Ford says it will also invest $1 billion over the next five years to make improvements to its plants. That will include things that UAW members ask for, such as more charging ports, better lighting in the parking lots, healthier food options, and more.
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“This announcement is a testament to UAW members who contribute their skill, experience, and knowledge to the success of Ford Motor Company,” said UAW President Ray Curry. “We are always advocating to employers and legislators that union jobs are worth the investment. Ford stepped up to the plate by adding these jobs and converting 3,000 UAW members to permanent, full-time status with benefits.”
Additionally, as part of the announcement, Ford confirmed that the next-generation Mustang and Ranger will be built in Michigan. It also announced that the all-new electric commercial vehicle that will be built in Ohio will debut in the mid-2020s and that it will be increasing production of the F-150, following strong demand for the all-electric pickup.
Per the company, the full investment will include the following:
Michigan: $2 billion investment and 3,200 union jobs including the creation of nearly 2,000 jobs throughout three assembly plants in Michigan to increase production of the all-new F-150 Lightning electric truck to 150,000 per year at Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, produce an all-new Ranger pickup at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne and an all-new Mustang coupe at Flat Rock Assembly Plant. The investment also includes $35 million to build an all-new Ford Customer Service Division packaging facility in Monroe that will create more than 600 union jobs, with operations expected to begin in 2024 to help accelerate parts shipments for Ford customers.
Ohio: $1.5 billion investment and 1,800 union jobs at Ohio Assembly Plant to assemble an all-new EV commercial vehicle starting mid-decade, along with an additional 90 jobs and $100 million investment between Lima Engine and Sharonville Transmission plants.
Missouri: $95 million investment and 1,100 union jobs for a third shift at Kansas City Assembly Plant to increase production of the Transit, America’s best-selling commercial van, and the all-new E-Transit electric van.
