American Axle & Manufacturing to Open Engineering Facility at Innovation Center

Business People, Sep 2007

The Northeast Indiana Innovation Center (NIIC) has announced that American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM) is opening a product development and engineering presence inside the NIIC. The office will focus on engineering and technical support for existing customers and potential new business.

"The efforts of the leadership of the NIIC were the catalyst for AAM to locate in the Fort Wayne area," says John S. Sofia, AAM's vice president- Engineering, Product Development & CTO. "In addition, the geographic proximity to the renowned and respected IPFW (Indiana University - Purdue University Fort Wayne) will allow AAM to leverage the technical resources available at the university. This represents a first step in what we hope to be a long-term relationship with Fort Wayne and the state of Indiana."

"We are excited to add American Axle & Manufacturing to the growing list of companies beginning operations at the Innovation Center," says Karl LaPan, president and CEO of the Northeast Indiana Innovation Center. "The establishment of the AAM presence here underscores the diversity of companies we are working with and also clearly shows the growing link between economic development and institutions of higher learning."

That link has been strengthened through the development of the Office of University Engagement at IPFW, a cooperative effort involving Indiana University, Purdue University and IPFW. "This project is an excellent example of how access to resources within higher education can be leveraged to support regional economic development initiatives," adds Sean Ryan, IPFW's Director of University Engagement. "Using the engagement office as a single point of contact, AAM can develop relationships on various levels within the Engineering and Technology programs at IPFW and Purdue."

AAM plans allow for approximately twelve employees on site in the current configuration. Additional growth will depend on product demand and the overall effectiveness of the Fort Wayne office. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation, the City of Fort Wayne, the Northeast Indiana Innovation Center, the local WorkOne office and the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance continue to work with representatives of American Axle & Manufacturing regarding available state and local assistance to help grow its presence in Indiana.