CONGRESSWOMAN FUDGE STATEMENT ON LOCKHEED MARTIN PLAN TO CLOSE AKRON FACILITY AND RELOCATE 500 JOBS TO OTHER STATES

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge issued the following statement regarding a decision by Lockheed Martin, Inc. to proceed with a consolidation plan and relocate 500 jobs in Akron to other states:

“I am very disappointed with the announcement by Lockheed Martin to close the facility that has been a part of Akron for many years, especially since most of their business is based on work for the federal government. I personally conveyed my disappointment in a phone call today with Dale Bennett, Lockheed Executive Vice-President for the Mission Systems and Training Business Area .  I had urged the company to reconsider, given the important work conducted in Akron and the highly competitive, skilled workforce that Lockheed Martin was able to attract and retain here in Ohio.  The loss of 500 jobs is a devastating economic blow to Summit County and the entire Northeast Ohio region,” said Congresswoman Fudge.

“I understand that sequestration has been a major issue for defense contractors and others across this country, but most of them have not taken drastic measures to uproot their workforce and eliminate thousands of jobs.  The sequester is causing real, ongoing damage for the people of my district and throughout the country and that is why I have repeatedly urged an end to this destructive policy.”

“My office also stands ready to work with the Akron community  and Lockheed Martin to help ensure an orderly transition for the impacted employees.”

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