Illinois-based Caterpillar to open engineering design center in Rapid City with up to 100 jobs

Caterpillar to open design center in Rapid City

RAPID CITY, S.D. — Caterpillar Inc. said Tuesday it plans to open an engineering design center in Rapid City, employing as many as 100 people.

The Illinois-based equipment manufacturer said the Black Hills Engineering Design Center will provide more support for its U.S. operations. Caterpillar also has design centers in Chennai, India, and Champaign, Ill.

Caterpillar already has ties to Rapid City, with a long relationship with the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, said Tana Utley, Caterpillar’s vice president and chief technology officer.

“Caterpillar has long been one of our leading partners and recognizes our heritage in preparing leaders in engineering and science,” School of Mines President Robert Wharton said. “This is a great opportunity for both of us to work together and further one another’s success.”

The center initially will occupy 3,100 square feet of space within Rapid City’s Black Hills Business Development Center. At full capacity it will employ up to 100 people.

Construction is expected to be finished this fall, with hiring beginning then and continuing over the next five years.

“When I talk about attracting companies that create the kinds of jobs that will keep our young people here, this is exactly the type of company I mean,” Gov. Mike Rounds said.

Online

Caterpillar: www.cat.com