By Peaches Calhoun

The brisk afternoon of April 26, 2025, brought torrents of air, fast moving umbrellas, and a steady rain to New Albany, Ohio—but even the sky’s that painted a canvas of grey couldn’t dampen the sense of optimism surrounding the official opening of Amgen Ohio, the biotech company’s newest and most advanced biomanufacturing site. With this facility, Amgen has planted a strong flag in Central Ohio, signaling not only a leap in pharmaceutical innovation but a ray of sunshine in the form of investment in local communities, workforce development, and the future of healthcare manufacturing. 

Leadership at the Forefront 

The indoor groundbreaking ceremony drew a crowd of influential figures from both the public and private sectors, each eagerly lending their voice to what this moment represents.  Among them were: 

 Robert A. Bradway, the esteemed Chairman and CEO of Amgen, who captivated an audience sitting at the ready position at the edge of their seats with his dynamic presence. With a bold vision, he passionately expressed the company’s unwavering commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technologies in the relentless pursuit of excellence. Under his visionary leadership, Amgen stands as a shining beacon of hope, dedicated to transforming groundbreaking scientific discoveries into innovative, high-quality medicines that enrich lives and inspire a new generation to reach for vibrant health and well-being. 

Ohio Lt. Governor Jim Tressel took to the stage and captured every ear as his voice rang out “We’re excited that Amgen is once again expanding here in Ohio. Their investment shows that Ohio is the place to be thanks to our state’s skilled workforce and commitment to innovation. New investments mean new opportunities for more Ohioans.” 

Esteban Santos, the executive vice president of operations, spoke during the ceremony announcing a $900 million investment to expand the Amgen manufacturing facility in New Albany. He stated, “Amgen seeks to serve every patient,” and the crowd responded by chanting, “Every time!” 

 New Albany Mayor Sloan Spalding, said, “Amgen has been an outstanding corporate partner, and their expansion is a testament to the strong relationship they’ve built with the New Albany community,”  Their investment brings new, high-quality jobs to our residents and helps diversify our economy, strengthening New Albany’s position as a hub for innovation.” 

J.P. Nauseef, President and CEO of JobsOhio, declared, “Amgen’s monumental investment solidifies Ohio’s stature as a leader in biotech and life sciences. Our rapidly expanding biomanufacturing sector is a testament to the trust global companies have in our skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and relentless drive for innovation.” 

Sandra Rodriguez-Toledo, Vice President of Site Operations for Amgen Ohio, announced a $900 million investment to expand the Amgen manufacturing facility in New Albany, Ohio.  

A Milestone in Modern Manufacturing 

The nearly 300,000-square-foot facility was constructed in just 26 months—a remarkable feat by industry standards. It integrates forward-thinking technologies such as automated guided vehicles, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality tools, all designed to optimize production and ensure quality control. From the inside out, the site represents a new benchmark in pharmaceutical manufacturing. 

Even more impressive is Amgen’s commitment to environmental sustainability. The facility was built with the goal of aligning with Amgen’s corporate pledge to reach carbon neutrality by 2027, a forward-looking strategy that balances cutting-edge innovation with ecological responsibility. 

Economic Promise for Central Ohio 

Amgen Ohio stands as a beacon of innovation and a catalyst for economic growth in the region. With plans to employ 400 full-time workers, the facility is set to contribute a substantial $40 million to the local economy annually. These positions offer more than just jobs; they create vibrant career pathways in a high-growth industry, welcoming individuals from diverse skill levels and educational backgrounds.  

As Amgen Ohio continues to expand, its influence will reach far beyond its walls, fostering a community where professional growth and collaboration thrive, and leaving a lasting legacy of economic vitality and inspiration. 

A New Pipeline for Talent 

One of the standout announcements was Amgen’s collaboration with Columbus State Community College to launch an 18-month apprenticeship program in manufacturing. This partnership opens doors for local residents—particularly those without four-year degrees—to train for careers in biomanufacturing through hands-on learning. The program reflects a shared vision: building a stronger, more inclusive pipeline of talent for the future. 

A Glimpse Ahead 

Afterwards, we stepped into the café; the scene immediately struck me. Purple and blue Hydrangeas on every table. Elegant food and beverages were artfully arranged, each dish beautifully hand-served on gleaming silver plates. The atmosphere buzzed with the lively sounds of excitement and connection. Conversations flowed like the sparkling drinks in our glasses, a delightful mix of voices sharing ideas, stories, and visions for the future. In that moment, it felt as though each interaction was a thread weaving a tapestry of collaboration and camaraderie, perfectly capturing the essence of “A New Era in Healthcare.” I felt a deep sense of belonging, as if I were part of a transformative journey poised to reshape the landscape of health and wellness. It ignited a spark of hope that, together, we could not only forge a brighter future for our community and beyond, but also that Agmen can serve every patient every time.

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