The economic, employment and business climate is heating up in Sterling Heights, Mich. Three companies have announced more than a $1 billion in investments in Sterling Heights to support projects that are also expected not only retain area jobs but to also create 1,300 new jobs. Michigan Governor Jennifer Grandholm stated "the American Auto Industry is back" as Ford Motor Company plans to invest $150 million in its Sterling Heights transmission and axle plants. The investment is a part of statewide investment project that totals $850 million. This new investment follows a recent announcement that the automaker will invest more than $64 million in its two Sterling Heights facilities. Mark Fields, Ford's president of the Americas, detailed the companies commitment to U.S. engineering and manufacturing at a press conference held at the Sterling Heights axel plant on October 25.