GM Recalls 37 Workers for Chinese Engine Production

A total of 37 former GM workers have received their Christmas presents a little bit earlier, as the manufacturer has informed them that beginning with January 3 they will commence work at the Tonawanda Engine facility. The move is a result of a new engine order issued by Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), GM's joint venture in China, which wants more Ecotect blocks, heads and cranks, according to a report by Tonawanda News.

Of course, this can be only good news for the local community, especially because General Motors has much more optimistic plans when it comes to engine production at the Tonawanda site.

“Not only does this order mean we can recall about 37 laid off UAW employees ..., but it also means more job security for over 100 current employees’ jobs,” plant manager Steve Finch said according to the aforementioned source. “Normally there is a time period in between ceasing production of one product and the ramping up of another where we need to lay off employees while we tear out old equipment and bring in the new machines."

United Autoworkers Local 774 Shop Chairman Bob Coleman applauded the announcement and emphasized once again that more workers at the local facility deserve a change to prove that they're doing a great job within the engine manufacturing facility.

“We are professional engine and engine part builders,” he said. “Tonawanda Engine has now been placed on the map as a global supplier.”

“This is the beginning of it. We just hope it keeps coming,” Town Supervisor Anthony Caruana added. “It’s terrific news. We’re hoping this is the beginning of a turnaround for things in the town.”