Some good news from the IBM plant in Essex Junction: After years of cutbacks, the plant is hiring hundreds of new workers.
Since June the company has hired 126 new workers and is planning to hire another 114 before the end of the year.
WCAX television says the company is filling an unexpected demand for components made in Vermont that are used in consumer electronics products like cell phones.
Plant spokesman Jeff Couture says the positions are in manufacturing and support.
In 2001 the Essex Junction plant employed about 8,500 people. In January that number dipped below 5,000.
IBM officials say the jobs are only guaranteed for one to three years, but they could last longer, depending on the economy