$90mil VACOM Manufacturing Plant Coming to Lewistown: Boosting Job Opportunities and Economic Growth

The town of Lewistown, Montana, is set to witness a significant economic boost with the establishment of a new manufacturing plant. VACOM, a renowned German manufacturing company, has announced its plans to build a state-of-the-art North American headquarters in Lewistown. With an investment of $90 million, this venture is expected to create hundreds of high-paying jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region.

A Game-Changing Investment

VACOM’s decision to choose Lewistown as the site for their new manufacturing plant is a testament to the town’s potential and the government’s efforts to attract businesses. The company, founded in 1992 by CEO Jens Bergner’s mother, specializes in producing vacuum components and measurement technology for various high-tech applications.

The manufacturing facility, named the VACOM Big Sky campus, will be strategically located near the Lewistown Airport. The initial phase of construction will involve investing $35 million, with $20 million allocated for building infrastructure and $15 million for cutting-edge equipment and technology. The company plans to gradually expand its operations, with a target of 100 employees by 2026 and 200 employees by 2027.

A Bright Future for Lewistown

The VACOM facility in Lewistown will not only provide job opportunities but also contribute to the overall development of the community. The company aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem within the campus, including a training center, a daycare facility, and a learning center for employees’ children. This holistic approach reflects VACOM’s commitment to fostering a supportive and family-friendly work environment.

Governor Greg Gianforte expressed his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on the local economy. He stated, “We want Montanans to be able to prosper, raise a family, and live in the communities that they love. Our quality of life is a huge competitive advantage, inspiring people to do their best work.”

Addressing Housing Challenges

While the VACOM investment promises significant job creation, it also highlights the need for adequate housing in Lewistown. State Senator Dan Bartel acknowledges this concern and reassures the community that efforts are underway to address the housing shortage. Bartel affirms that they are actively working on building permanent single-family housing and rental units to accommodate the influx of employees and their families.

“We are aware of the housing struggle, but we have received excellent interest from investors and are committed to finding solutions. Like many other cities in the state, we recognize the need for more housing,” Bartel explained.

A Strategic Location for VACOM

VACOM CEO Jens Bergner was drawn to Lewistown by the warm welcome and the similarities he observed between Montana and his German homeland. He recalled a conversation with Governor Gianforte, who assured him, “I want you to know, we want you in Montana.” Bergner was impressed by the state’s natural beauty and the friendly and helpful nature of its residents.

Additionally, Bergner recognized the region’s potential for growth and development. He highlighted the existing industries in Lewistown, such as agriculture and construction, as well as the presence of quality manufacturing companies. VACOM’s entry into the market will complement and sustain the industrial industry in the area.

The Importance of Education and Training

As VACOM establishes its presence in Lewistown, Bergner emphasizes the significance of education and training for the success of their operations. The company plans to invest in educating the local workforce, particularly in the field of vacuum technology and cleaning. By equipping employees with the necessary skills, VACOM aims to ensure the long-term success of their manufacturing processes.

Bergner firmly believes that education is the key to solving challenges, stating, “If there’s a problem, you can solve it with education.” This mindset aligns with VACOM’s commitment to continuous learning and innovation, which will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of both the company and the community.

A Collaborative Effort for Success

The establishment of the VACOM manufacturing plant in Lewistown is the result of collaborative efforts between state and local leaders, community members, and investors. State Senator Dan Bartel, along with a group of local leaders, played a pivotal role in convincing VACOM to choose Lewistown as their North American headquarters.

Bartel recognizes the significance of this development for the region, stating, “VACOM is going to bring a vital industry that we are going to need in the next generation.” He acknowledges the strong foundation of manufacturing expertise in the area and believes that VACOM’s presence will complement and sustain the industrial industry, leading to further growth and prosperity.

Timeline for Development

The VACOM Big Sky campus is expected to take shape over the next few years. Construction is set to begin in early 2025, with the aim of having the facility fully operational by 2027. The first phase of development will see the creation of 40,000 square feet of production space, with subsequent phases involving additional investments totaling $50 million and the creation of up to 500 jobs.

Lewistown residents can look forward to witnessing the transformation of their community as the VACOM manufacturing plant becomes a reality. The project’s timeline allows for careful planning and preparation, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure and resources are in place to support the growth.

A Catalyst for Economic Growth

The arrival of the VACOM manufacturing plant in Lewistown holds immense promise for the town and its residents. With the creation of hundreds of high-tech, high-paying jobs, the project will contribute to the economic growth and stability of the region. Additionally, the comprehensive ecosystem being developed within the VACOM campus will provide a supportive environment for employees and their families.

The commitment of both VACOM and the local community to address housing challenges demonstrates a collaborative and proactive approach. By working together to find solutions, Lewistown will be well-prepared to accommodate the influx of new residents and ensure a prosperous future for all.

Conclusion

The $90 million VACOM manufacturing plant coming to Lewistown marks a significant milestone in the town’s economic development. With its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to employee well-being, VACOM will not only create job opportunities but also foster a thriving community. The synergy between VACOM and Lewistown’s existing industries will contribute to the region’s industrial growth and position it as a hub for high-tech manufacturing in North America. As construction commences and the project unfolds, Lewistown can look forward to a brighter tomorrow, driven by innovation, collaboration, and economic prosperity.

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