ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Eaton plans to add about 300 jobs in Buncombe County over the next year, expanding operations at its Arden and Avery Creek facilities to meet growing demand for its electrical equipment products.
The company said Tuesday the new positions will support increased production of its Low Voltage Assembly product line, citing rising national demand. The expansion is expected to boost manufacturing capacity in the Asheville area while creating what officials described as high-tech, high-wage jobs.
Eaton, a global power management firm with operations in more than 175 countries and a workforce of roughly 92,000, has maintained a presence in the Asheville area since 1977, when its local facility began as Westinghouse Electric. The company currently employs nearly 1,500 people across its Buncombe County sites.
“We are excited about the growth opportunities here at Eaton in Asheville,” said Susana Guillen, plant manager for the Arden facility. “We have a great product and a great workforce and will need to fill more well-paying positions to satisfy our customers’ needs.”
Local officials welcomed the announcement, pointing to its potential impact on jobs and the regional economy.
Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards said the investment reflects the strength of the area’s workforce and will help expand economic opportunities for residents.
“Economic development begins with strengthening and supporting longtime local employers like Eaton,” Edwards said, adding the expansion would help grow household incomes and the county’s tax base.
Carol Steen, chair of the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County, said the move marks the seventh major manufacturing expansion announced in Buncombe County since Tropical Storm Helene, signaling continued economic recovery in the region.
Company officials said hiring is expected to ramp up over the next 12 months. More information about job opportunities is available on the company’s website and at upcoming regional hiring events, including the WNC Career Expo on April 16.