Earlier this year, I was thrilled to join Tipmont and Wintek in the role of business development director. I was previously with Greater Lafayette Commerce for 24 years, most recently as vice president, economic development. My new role will build strong relations with existing and new customers throughout Tipmont and Wintek’s service area. I will also be working closely with the local community leadership to attract new industry and help create economic opportunities.
A recent example is NHK Seating’s announcement to build a new facility near the SR 28 and I65 interchange in Clinton County. The $38M investment will include a 383,000-square foot manufacturing facility and add up to 100 new jobs. This is welcome news that didn’t happen by accident.
When a company looks for a community to invest in, they value longterm planning, a skilled workforce to draw from, and a community that works in partnership for continued growth. In our case, we gave NKH’s leadership confidence that ample electric capacity exists to serve their additional load.
At a time when many rural communities are fighting population decline and economic stagnation, these types of business investments benefit our entire membership by allowing our communities to grow and prosper.
Rob Ford
Rob Ford is Tipmont and Wintek's communication director, a role he's held since 2015.
Rob has a bachelor's and a master's in Communication from Purdue University. He lives in West Lafayette with his wife and three children and has a life-sized Yoda statue in his office. Away from the office, you’ll find Rob working on his golf swing, jump shot, or hope for a Purdue basketball national title – all futile endeavors.
