Computer Aid, Inc., an IT services firm, invested nearly $1.3 million to establish an office in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, in a move that will create 50 high-paying jobs.

The firm entered into a lease for space at Harrisburg University. The company plans to invest in a project that will include fitting out the building space to accommodate new computer systems, new offices and conference rooms.

CAI entered into a contract with Highmark to manage its IT revitalization project for its subsidiary United Concordia Dental. In addition to the new, permanent jobs, CAI will be using part-time college students to fill some project roles, providing the students with real world experience.

“In the past decades millions of IT technology jobs have been outsourced to other countries. I believe that the young men and women in this program offer a stronger alternative than sending jobs offshore,” said Tony Salvaggio, President/CEO of Computer Aid. “This training will dramatically affect the trajectory of their lives and will provide a set of highly motivated, energetic, and competitive skilled resources for Highmark and hopefully other businesses. I commend Highmark and their executives for initiating such a great program.”

“Companies are choosing Pennsylvania as the best place to grow their businesses,” said Governor Tom Corbett. “My administration is proud to partner with Computer Aid to provide high-paying jobs to our citizens and real-world experience for our students right here in our capital city.”

As an incentive, the company received a funding proposal from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development including a $225,000 Pennsylvania First Program grant that facilitates investment and job creation. Computer Aid has accepted the funding proposal, but must still apply for the grant and agree to the terms prior to award receipt. The project was coordinated by the Governor’s Action Team in collaboration with the Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC.