Two days before a scheduled news conference, business folk in Roanoke are already talking about a development for one of the area’s oldest and largest employers.  On Wednesday TMEIC GE Drive Automation Systems will announce details about a move from Salem to the former home of Atlantic Mutual Cos. in Roanoke County.

A move a few miles down the road may not sound like a big deal. Yet, it’s good news for Southwest Virginia. A major employer is staying in the area, but plans to move into larger space so it can increase its work force of about 300. TMEIC, a joint venture between Toshiba, Mitsubishi Electric and GE, makes software that runs motors. Its industrial drive systems are used by a number of industries, including mining, marine, and utilities. 
Stay tuned Wednesday for more details.