Indiana secures hundreds of new job commitments for New Year

The numbers are in and the future looks bright for Indiana business.  Indiana Economic Development announced Friday the state secured 219 job commitments from companies across the country and the world.  That number is 19 better than last year, and more than any other year on record.

"More people moving into Indiana, more young people moving into Indiana,” said Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels.  “It is a reversal from years ago."

Spot Freight is one of the 200-plus companies committed to adding employees in the New Year.  From humble beginnings, things have continued to grow at this 3rd party logistics provider.

"We started in a small office with three people on card tables, barely working heat,” said Elsner.  “We have fortunate enough with loyal customers to grow now to 19 employees.

Spot Freight has agreed to add 75 new workers in the New Year.  According to the Indiana Economic Development, those 75 hires are part of 19,080 others for 2011.  Those job commitments mean cash, $2.7 billion in capital investment.

Spot Freight President Andrew Elsner said setting up shop in the Hoosier State was a no-brainer because it is centrally located in the U-S.  He said a financial boost did not hurt either.

"When you start it is tough to get cash especially with what banks were loaning at the time,” said Elsner.  “When the city comes through and gives us tax breaks to hire and train, it is huge."