With the help of the Blair County Chamber of Commerce and some very special guests, Link Computer Corporation officially cut the ribbon on its state-of-the-art new facility on Stadium Drive, Bellwood, yesterday at 3 p.m.
Founded in 1980, Link Computer Corp. employs about 100 professionals and serves the business technology needs of hundreds of clients. Link offers an array of products and services, including computer hardware and infrastructure, software development services and Information Technology (IT) staffing.
The 29,000 square-foot building boasts “beneficial design and construction qualities, a state-of-the-art infrastructure and a work environment that will help Link better serve its customers and employees,” said Tim Link, President, who co-owns the corporation along with Brian Link.
The 6.36 acre facility has a licensed heliport, pre-cast masonry panel exterior, 2000-Amp 12-cylinder Caterpillar twin turbo diesel generator, fireproof walk-in vault, outdoor employee area and pavilion and it has a 250 employee capacity.
Link commented on the location of the new facility. “We at Link feel very fortunate indeed to now be working out of this facility.” He added, “We’re located right along the I-99 Innovation/Technology Quarter, which was the requirement for us.”
State Representative Jerry Stern was on hand to deliver his thoughts on the growing technology in Northern Blair County, especially along the I-99 Technology Quarter. “Once I-99 is connected the whole way to I-80 we’re going to see a lot of things occur here in Blair County.” He continued, “We’re providing jobs and opportunities for people that want to stay in Blair County and get a good paying job.”
Stern added, “It’s about hometown people like the Link Corporation and family providing the jobs in Blair County for the future.”
Bruce Kelly also spoke on behalf of U.S. Representative Bill Shuster who was unable to attend due to traveling. Kelly extended Shuster’s best wishes towards Link Computer Corporation.
Kelly continued, “It speaks volumes about the Link’s and their commitment to not only want to start a business but to do it here. But it also speaks volumes about our area and our people and the resources we have.” He added, “These types of jobs just don’t happen somewhere else in the country, they can happen here too.”
The economy of Blair County has suffered in recent years due to plant closings and down-sizings throughout the county, but Link Computer Corporation has shown that it isn’t the end and there are opportunities to grow in Blair.
Jim Gregory, representing Senate Pro Tempore/Lieutenant Governor Robert C. Jubelirer, read a letter Jubelirer wrote on behalf of the Link Corporation ribbon cutting. Gregory read, “It is particularly rewarding to watch a homegrown company establish itself, achieve a reputation for quality and leadership and expand its operation.”
He added, “Link is the latest example of how the incredible cooperation between the public and private sectors that we have in this area pays continuing economic dividends. Clearly, Link is a key piece in making the dream of the I-99 Technology Quarter turn into a productive reality.”
The well-represented ribbon cutting concluded with a reception and open house, including guided tours of the new facility. Link Computer Corporation has set a standard for Northern Blair County and its technology opportunities that provides jobs right here at home.
