US technology and engineering giant Rockwell Automation is to expand its workforce in Ireland by 10pc at the end of 2011. The new workers will support Rockwell’s Global Solutions business.
“This expansion in Ireland is a demonstration of the confidence that Rockwell Automation has in the quality of technology professionals available in the Irish market to support our global business,” said Terry Gebert, VP, Global Solutions.
“We will continue to support our business in Ireland from our Cork and Dublin offices and this expansion shows our commitment to our customers even in these difficult market conditions,” says Christian Schoening, director, Global Solutions.
Milwaukee-headquartered Rockwell Automation employs more than 19,600 people globally and acquired Cork-based technology company ProsCon in 2007 and has just completed the final steps of integrating the acquisition as a precursor to this expansion.
Flexible and hard-working workforce
“The flexibility and hard work of our staff over the last number of years during difficult operating conditions has shown that Ireland continues to have a competitive workforce,” says Paul Greene, who, as business manager, Global Solutions, is responsible for Irish operations.
When it was acquired by Rockwell, ProsCon employed more than 240 engineers, scientists, managers, technicians and support staff at its offices in Cork, Dublin, the UK and Singapore. ProsCon’s customers include Abbott, Bristol Myers Squibb, Centocor, Eli Lilly, Elan, Astellas Pharma, GSK, Tyco-Mallinckrodt, MSD, Novartis, Pfizer, Roche, Schering Plough and Wyeth.
“Rockwell Automation is a renowned global technology company,” said IDA Ireland CEO Barry O’Leary.
“Today’s announcement that it intends to grow its Cork presence is very welcome and builds on the engineering skill base available in Cork. Ireland remains a key location for engineering activities, which has been further enhanced by our improved competitiveness.
“This news demonstrates that Ireland continues to provide a talented, technical workforce and pro-business environment that can assist global companies such as Rockwell Automation to meet their global business needs,” O’Leary added.
