From the articles that I’ve written about the creation and losses of manufacturing jobs in Florida, I’ve come to believe that this is an issue important to many Floridians because of the interest that the articles generate. According to the Economic Policy Institute, manufacturing is a reflection of economic production, so the interest makes sense. Therefore, some Floridians may be interested in the upcoming loss of 250 manufacturing jobs, which comes closely after the announced shutdown of Dart Industries, Inc. in Florida, which I’ve covered on this platform.
About Kimball Electronics: This company was founded in 1981 and specializes in electronics. It offers contract manufacturing in a variety of sectors. Examples are circuit boards, medical devices, and sterilization products.
Employees give the company 3.4 out of 5 stars on Indeed. Some mention a fun environment and generous vacation days, but others mention an unfair promotion progress and a frustrating workplace.
The Upcoming Layoffs: According to a warn letter dated November 4, 2024, a facility located at 13700 Reptron Boulevard in Tampa will begin permanently laying off employees on January 5, 2025. Separations will be completed around June 2025, at which time the facility will close.
Since the plant is permanently closing, bumping rights “will not exist.” Employees are not represented by a union.
250 positions are affected and employees have job titles such as associate quality engineer, engineering technician, facilities supervisor, facilities maintenance technician, high volume inspector, high volume operator, hand assembler, manufacturing engineer, production manager, quality coordinator, quality supervisor, and technical trainer.
The company reported a 71% loss in its net income in early November 2024. It announced the Tampa job losses in an earnings call.
The Mexico Facility: According to the Tampa Bay Busines Journal, Kimball will transfer the majority of its production from the Tampa facility to a facility in Mexico.