Ford Motor Co. announced this week a $128 million investment to retool an assembly plant in northeastern Ohio, protecting nearly 2,000 jobs and shifting production of medium-duty trucks to the plant from Mexico, reports AP.

The announcement was praised by both Ohio legislators, who hope to revive the state’s once-booming auto industry, and by workers whose jobs were saved from the chopping block:

"What's a better Christmas present than hearing about this," [Gov. John] Kasich said. He said Ford's announcement showed a positive trend for manufacturing.

Ozzie Figueroa, 45, of Lorain, who works in the Ford plant's paint shop, said the announcement was welcome because of the long-term employment prospects it offered.

"I've got kids in college," said Figueroa, who was snapping photos for his union newsletter. "I've got to keep working to provide."

The Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM) applauds Ford for investing in its American facilities, and for shifting some production back to the U.S. When a company Keeps it Made in America, everyone wins.

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