Leading information technology company CGI has announced its new technology center, will be located in University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s 143-acre Research Park.
The center will be located in a 50,000-square-foot, $13.1 million building. According to a statement, CGI will develop complex business and IT solutions for clients seeking services from a technology partner that shares a common time zone, language and understanding of client business operations.
“We welcome the opportunity to contribute to the economic growth and vision of Lafayette and the surrounding region,” said CGI executive Dr. James Peake. “Our partnership with Lafayette represents a groundbreaking model for CGI – bringing together the local community to identify opportunities for innovation that can be applied globally, while tapping the talent and resources of Louisiana. As a continuation of our relationship with the state, this partnership will help create 400 jobs and serve as a model of corporate-community cooperation for keeping technology jobs in America. We congratulate the State of Louisiana and the Lafayette community on this comprehensive, innovative program.”
The company, which will become an anchor tenant, will create 400 direct and 405 indirect jobs for the region. Louisiana Economic Development expects the total annual payroll to be about $22 million.
“Today’s announcement by CGI is the culmination of more than 30 years of building a reputation that Lafayette, La., is a premier technology hub – not only in the South but in the entire U.S,” said President and CEO Gregg Gothreaux of the Lafayette Economic Development Authority. “CGI officials recognize the strength of UL Lafayette’s superior education programs and specialized centers, and the community’s assets and innovative spirit. CGI’s decision to locate more than 400 jobs in Lafayette is another step in keeping our highly trained graduates in the area and in attracting those who want to make their home in Acadiana. At LEDA, we look forward to continuing our work with CGI as they become an integral part of the University’s Research Park and of our community.”
Hiring is expected to begin within a few months; operations are expected to begin at a temporary location towards the end of 2014. More information is available at cgi.com.