Oct. 13--PEORIA -- One of Peoria's fastest-growing companies hit a speed bump in 2009.

While a lethargic economy has slowed expansion at Advanced Technology Services Inc., 8201 N. University St., the company plans a career fair this Saturday to help get back on track.

ATS had a record year in 2008, said President and CEO Jeff Owens. The firm that specializes in handling maintenance for other companies -- including Caterpillar Inc., Motorola and Honeywell -- doubled in size in just four years, he said.

But this year the company that employs 2,000 worldwide had to lay off 700 people. "There's no doubt the economic slowdown had an effect. When companies slowed down, we slowed down with them," said Owens.

"So far, we haven't seen significant expansion for companies that have shrunk. Our business is picking up because of new contracts," he said.

An economic rebound looks to be under way, said Owens, noting that 350 ATS employees who were laid off have recently returned to work. "We're trying to bring back others, but sometimes the (clients') needs change," he said.

ATS now looks to fill 125 technical positions -- jobs such as diesel, emissions and electronic-repair technician, said Owens, noting the ATS job fair at the company's corporate offices in Pioneer Park from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday.

"Our focus right now is in the technical areas, but we're very open to people without those technical skills who might be interested in joining our training program. Most of these jobs are in Illinois," he said.

ATS recruiters will be on hand Saturday to talk one-on-one with individuals who can then apply online using company computers, said Owens.

"During the slowdown, we didn't take our foot off the accelerator with training. We think that will pay off when the economy recovers," he said.

Ongoing education still is needed when it comes to modern manufacturing, said Owens. "Today you use your brain more than your back. Factories are air-conditioned, well-lit and safe, yet people still have an image of molten steel and work sites that are dark and dangerous," he said.

Despite the downturn, ATS continues to expand, said Owens, citing operations in Mexico, Puerto Rico, England, Ireland and China. "Right now we're an international company, but we look to become a global company," he said.

Steve Tarter can be reached at 686-3260 or starter@pjstar.com.

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