Three Michigan Businesses Expand, Creating Nearly 200 Jobs with $31M Investment

Michigan's economic landscape is set for a significant boost as three companies announce expansions totaling over $31 million in investments and the creation of nearly 200 jobs across the state.

ProTec Panel and Truss, a manufacturer specializing in engineered wood products, is establishing a new branch in Battle Creek. This $3 million investment is expected to generate 50 new positions, with starting wages of $25 per hour plus benefits. The company has acquired a vacant building in Battle Creek to facilitate this expansion, aiming to enhance production capacity and delivery efficiency across Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Ohio.

Shane Soule, President of ProTec Panel and Truss, emphasized the strategic importance of this move, stating, "Battle Creek offers an ideal location to deliver enhanced responsiveness and build stronger connections within our core market areas."

WarBird Protection Group, founded in 2023, is consolidating its operations in Kalkaska. The company, known for developing personal protective equipment for law enforcement, is investing $3 million and plans to create at least 110 new jobs with starting wages of $20.65 per hour. This expansion is supported by a $750,000 performance-based grant from the Michigan Business Development Program.

Aaron Popa, Kalkaska's village manager and chief of police, expressed enthusiasm about the development, noting that it will "create future commercial growth in our town."

Weiss Technik NA, a leader in environmental test chambers, is expanding its operations with a new 125,000-square-foot facility in Kentwood, Kent County. This $25.6 million investment is set to add 36 jobs. The expansion addresses the company's need for increased production capacity due to growth exceeding its current Grand Rapids-area location.

Jeff Agar, Vice President and COO of Weiss Technik NA, highlighted the benefits of the new facility, stating it will "streamline our operations across engineering, manufacturing, and logistics, allowing us to serve our customers more efficiently and innovate faster than ever."

These expansions underscore Michigan's appeal as a hub for manufacturing and innovation, contributing to the state's economic momentum and job creation.