MORGANTOWN, Ky. – Governor Andy Beshear attended the grand opening of Aerospace Composites Solutions' (ACS) new facility in Morgantown on May 29, 2025. The $16.8 million investment is expected to create 72 full-time jobs in Butler County.
“We continue to see growth in our manufacturing and aerospace industries, providing incredible job opportunities for communities across the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “Aerospace Composites Solutions is a company that has invested in the Butler County community for over a decade."
The facility, announced in July 2023, marks an expansion due to ACS's growth needs. It will serve as the primary hub for production and innovation at Lot 1 of Morgantown Industrial Park, which became Build Ready-certified in 2021.
“This grand opening is more than a ribbon-cutting – it’s a recommitment to American aerospace manufacturing excellence and to Morgantown’s role in that future,” stated Matt Shieman, president of ACS.
Bill Smrtic, founding partner of ACS, emphasized their investment as both local and global: “We see our investment in this new facility as an investment in the future of the local and regional community.”
Butler County Judge/Executive Tim Flener highlighted strategic partnerships: “ACS’s grand opening is a powerful example of how strategic partnerships can create real opportunities for our residents.”
Morgantown Mayor Billy Phelps expressed optimism about ACS's continued presence: “We are proud to celebrate this moment with ACS – a company that continues to invest in our people."
Ron Bunch from Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce noted regional benefits: "When one of our communities wins, we all win."
Gov. Beshear also reflected on economic progress during his administration with significant private-sector investments totaling over $35 billion since he took office.
Kentucky has seen its highest-ever economic growth figures under Gov. Beshear's leadership, including substantial projects like Ford Motor Co.'s BlueOval SK Battery Park and Toyota's investment initiatives.
The state achieved its largest General Fund budget surplus while maintaining over two million filled jobs since 2023.
Kentucky received positive credit ratings from major agencies and was ranked highly by Site Selection magazine for economic development projects per capita.
Gov. Beshear launched "New Kentucky Home" to boost economic investment and tourism statewide.