FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 25, 2024
This groundbreaking follows the December 2023 announcement that Framatome is investing $49.4 million in the City of Lynchburg facility, creating 515 new jobs
LYNCHBURG, VA – Representatives from Framatome were joined today by local dignitaries, City of Lynchburg officials, and members of the Economic Development Authority of the City of Lynchburg to break ground on the $50 million expansion of its facility located in Lynchburg, Virginia. As one of three locations in Lynchburg, Framatome’s Operational Center of Excellence employees provide specialized training and tooling to service and maintain North America’s reliable nuclear plant operations and develops solutions for advanced and small modular reactors.
Framatome is an international leader in nuclear energy recognized for its innovative, digital, and value-added solutions for the global nuclear fleet. With worldwide expertise and a proven track record for reliability and performance, the company designs, services, and installs components, fuel, and instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants.
“Today’s groundbreaking embodies the heart of Framatome’s vision of high-performing people and technologies for safe and competitive nuclear power plants in the US and worldwide,” said Catherine Cornand, Senior Executive Vice President of Framatome’s Installed Base Business Unit. “Continuous development of our facilities and our teams’ skills represent our commitment to customers and the nuclear industry as we stand ready to meet the world’s growing clean energy demand.”
Framatome‘s expansion at the Mill Ridge location is also complemented by modernizations to its facilities on Old Forest Road and Mount Athos Road. These investments support U.S. utilities and build on over a half-century of collaboration from local and state leaders. They are critical for the sustainability of the existing fleet and the advancement of nuclear energy.
“The journey to a sustainable energy future is a collective endeavor that requires effort from our employees, communities, and government officials,” said Craig Ranson, Executive Vice President of the Installed Base Business Unit, Framatome North America. “Today is a testament to our growth here in Lynchburg fueled by government investment and inspired by the need for carbon-free energy solutions.”
“Framatome is one of our oldest and most impactful corporate citizens – and this investment in the City of Lynchburg cements our position as a leading nuclear technology hub in the United States,” said Wynter C. Benda, City Manager. “The City is proud to champion this expansion to bring opportunities for all of our residents and to attract and cultivate talent from across the region and the nation.”
“In collaboration with Framatome, we are forging a path of unprecedented growth, transforming Lynchburg into the hub for nuclear innovation in America,” said Marjette Upshur, Director of Economic Development & Tourism for the City of Lynchburg. “This groundbreaking not only supports the demand for growth in the nuclear industry, but it also solidifies our City’s position at the forefront of nuclear technology.”
The Mill Ridge Road comprehensive project includes the expansion of Framatome’s current footprint to house more than 500 new employees; refurbishment of its nuclear training center to support the next generation of small and advanced reactor technologies; modernization of existing office spaces and conference rooms; and added capacity for an innovation and design school.
“As one of our largest employers in the City of Lynchburg, we commend Framatome for their steadfast commitment to our community, said John Stone, Chair of the Economic Development Authority of the City of Lynchburg. “The creation of new jobs not only signifies Framatome’s ongoing growth but also underscores our shared pursuit of pioneering energy solutions. Leveraging their expertise and through our partnerships, we’re poised to cultivate a workforce equipped for the growing nuclear energy demand.”
To learn more about Framatome and its recent expansion in Lynchburg, Virginia, please visit www.opprtunitylynchburg.com. To learn more about available jobs at Framatome, please visit www.nuclearcareers.com.
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