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Trude Witham, a public relations representative based in Lowell, Mass., for Siemens Water Technologies, said the decision to eliminate the manufacturing of water quality and waste water treatment equipment was based on lack of opportunities for manufacturing expansion in Ames.
Witham said some employees may have the option to relocate to the company's other manufacturing locations in Colorado Springs, Colo., or Thomasville, Ga. The majority will be given severance packages and job placement assistance.
Siemens Water Technologies will vacate both its current properties on Arrasmith Trail and Golden Aspen Drive and move to a third location in Ames that is yet to be determined. The company expects the move to be complete by the end of the year.
Siemens Water Technologies is based in Warrendale, Pa., and employs about 5,700 worldwide in 174 locations. It provides products, systems and services for water and wastewater treatment to industrial, municipal, and commercial customers.
Dan Culhane, president and chief executive officer with the Ames Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Commission, said he understands the Siemens Water Technology job losses stemmed in part from a consolidation that the company was making among its Ames, Georgia and Colorado operations.
The loss of employment here is "unfortunate and regrettable," he said.
Laura Millsaps can be reached at 232-2161, Ext. 342, or lmillsaps@amestrib.com.
Bob Zientara can be reached at 232-2161, Ext.487, or rzientara@amestrib.com.
