Cummins Inc. has reached an agreement to purchase two downtown office buildings in Columbus, IN, in anticipation of adding as many as 350 new employees to the company’s headquarters workforce. The company, which employs about 6,000 in Indiana, has been moving employees into a downtown Columbus building since 2009.
Cummins said that building is expected to reach its capacity by 2011. With the expectation of strong business growth over the next several years, particularly overseas, the global engine manufacturer felt it need more space.
“Our success in our global markets has a direct benefit to Indiana where we are creating the kind of high-paying professional jobs that strengthen our community,” said Tim Solso, chairman & CEO. “Simply put, growth in international markets like India, China and Brazil create jobs in Indiana.”
The buildings in the sale are the former First Financial Bank branch and associated office tower at 500 Washington St. They are directly across the street from the existing Cummins offices.
Cummins plans to add at least 350 employees in the next 18 months in engineering, technical and other professional positions.
“We cannot create good jobs without the education infrastructure to support them,” said Tom Linebarger, president & COO. “That is why we applaud Indiana’s investment in programs that will strengthen our education system.”
Cummins expects to close on the real estate sale by the end of the year and take possession by the end of the first quarter of 2011.
