Eaton Invests in Workforce Growth in Buncombe County, Adds 300 Jobs

Asheville, N.C.—In conjunction with the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County (EDC), today Eaton announced plans to invest in 300 new jobs in Buncombe County in 2026. Driven by growing national demand for their industry leading Low Voltage Assembly product line, this expansion will support new production capacity, and create 300 high-tech, high-wage careers in the next 12 months at its Arden and Avery Creek facilities. This investment in jobs will not only support current demand but also help build capacity for future growth of American manufacturing in the Asheville metro region.

“We are excited about the growth opportunities here at Eaton in Asheville. It brings challenges that our team will overcome with help from our Asheville area community. We have a great product and a great workforce and will need to fill more well-paying positions to satisfy our customers’ needs. These growth opportunities come from a long-standing tradition and culture here in Asheville of quality products that our customers continue to expect from us,” said Susana Guillen, Plant Manager for Eaton’s Arden facility.

Global Eaton is a power management technology company that employs over 92,000 employees and does business in more than 175 countries around the world. Their energy-efficient products and services help customers effectively manage electrical and mechanical power more reliably, efficiently, safely, and sustainably.

Locally, Eaton has two facilities in the Asheville area (Arden and Avery Creek), employing close to 1,500 employees. Eaton has been part of the Asheville community since 1977, when the facility originally launched as Westinghouse Electric. Eaton remains a major employer and contributor to the community with many options for future career paths.

“Economic development begins with strengthening and supporting longtime local employers like Eaton. The company’s continued investment reflects the skill and dedication of its Buncombe County workforce and the strength of our regional workforce partners,” shared Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards. “The Commission is proud to see the growth of advanced manufacturing careers that create high-wage jobs, expand opportunities for local families, and grow household incomes while strengthening our tax base for years to come. Today’s announcement underscores the vital role major manufacturers like Eaton play in sustaining long-term prosperity across Buncombe County and Western North Carolina.”

“We are grateful for Eaton’s continued investment in its Buncombe County facilities,” said Carol Steen, Board Chair of the Economic Development Coalition. “This marks the seventh significant expansion announced by Buncombe County manufacturers since Hurricane Helene, signaling growing confidence in our people and real momentum in our economic recovery. Over the past year, the expansion of advanced manufacturing across our region has helped accelerate that progress. The strength and long-term vitality of our regional economy will be powered by employers like Eaton as they continue building the skilled workforce needed to meet the demands of the future.”

For more information about the company and related employment opportunities, visit: www.eaton.com/us or make plans to attend the WNC Career Expo on April 16th. Jobseeker information can be found at www.WNCCAREEREXPO.com.