Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) announced two business expansion projects expected to create 77 new jobs in Battle Creek and Benton Harbor Township.
On Mar. 31, Gov. Whitmer announced in a press release that two businesses, Duncan Aviation and West Michigan Tool & Die, would be expanding their operations into Calhoun and St. Joseph counties through the Michigan Strategic Fund, which is expected to generate $34 million in private revenue.
“At Duncan Aviation, we are excited to expand on over twenty-four years of success in Michigan. This new facility will provide dozens of career opportunities for members of our local community and opportunities for advancement by our existing team members,” said Duncan Aviation Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Andy Richards, according to the press release. “We appreciate the ongoing support from the state of Michigan and the city of Battle Creek. We couldn't ask for better partners.”
Founded in 1956, Duncan Aviation is the largest family-owned aircraft maintenance and repair company in the world, specializing in providing aircraft services for a wide variety of business aircraft within their 39 facilities across the United States. Duncan Aviation currently employs 638 people at its location in Battle Creek, according to the press release.
“Today’s investments in Battle Creek and Benton Harbor Township creating 77 advanced manufacturing jobs will help us continue growing Michigan’s economy and helping working families thrive,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer, according to the press release. “The businesses making these investments received support from the bipartisan Michigan Strategic Fund, one of several economic development tools that we worked across the aisle to establish. When we put Michiganders first, we can invest in our talented manufacturing workforce and help innovative businesses grow.”
Bulk Ag Innovations LLC, dba West Michigan Tool & Die (WMTD), is a contract tool and die shop in Benton Harbor Township that manufactures special tools and fixtures for use with machine tools, die-casting machines, and presses.