PRINTED circuit board giant Viasystems, is predicting a bright future for cutting-edge technology manufacturing in the North-East.

Employing almost 2,500 people at its facilities in Longbenton, South Shields and Boldon, Viasystems manufactures printed circuit boards and back panel assemblies for a global customer base, including leading names like Cisco Systems, Ericsson, Marconi Communications, Motorola and Siemens.

The Tyneside sites are currently under going extensive capacity and capability expansion programs providing state-of-the-art manufacturing, and maintaining Tyneside as a high-technology employment location.

The expansion at the North-East sites is providing excellent new opportunities for high-calibre graduates, technicians and engineers who want to have a hand in shaping future technologies.

Jeff Davis, president of Viasystems Europe, said the company's growing reputation and success should surprise no one. "Our business is strong and comes from rapidly expanding, stable markets.

"Our skilled workforce produces a complexity and quality of product found in very few places in the world and our customers are a reflection of that.

"Viasystems has invested heavily in the North-East and that commitment will continue in the future. Our Tyneside plants will be at the forefront of technological development for a long time and we need the best people in our team to power that development.

"The history and future of Viasystems means we can offer employees career opportunities unique in the North-East."