A southeast Iowa factory that makes wind turbine blades has recalled some workers laid off last fall as orders increase. Siemens Energy has recalled 13 workers to its Fort Madison plant and is lookingMore >> A southeast Iowa factory that makes wind turbine blades has recalled some workers laid off last fall as orders increase. Siemens Energy has recalled 13 workers to its Fort Madison plant and is lookingMore >>
FORT MADISON, Ia. (WGEM) -
Economic development officials in Fort Madison said they are hopeful by the recall of 13 factory workers to the Siemens plant.
Last week, the wind turbine factory announced it was recalling 13 of the 400 workers that were laid off in September.
(See "Siemens Energy Recalling Workers")
Officials say the announcement is a positive sign for economic growth in the area.
"Obviously, with any type of job call back it is going to be a positive thing for Fort Madison and the region and not to mention Siemens in general. They had a number they were sticking with that obviously is going to increase. Hopefully, it is because of the production tax credit extension," said Tim Gobble of Fort Madison Partners.
Siemens officials blamed the layoffs on a difficult market and lack of congressional action on a wind energy tax, that was ultimately passed in January.
(See "Siemens Energy to cut 407 jobs at Fort Madison facility")
Plant officials say they hope to hire back another 73 workers.
