Building Up: Local Structural Component Manufacturer Plans for Increased Production

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

GHK Truss, LLC will expand its current operations due to growing customer demands.

Clarksville, IN. (December 19, 2023)

GHK Truss, LLC, a thriving structural component manufacturer located in Clarksville, IN, is expanding. The company has grown since its establishment in 2008, creating a need to expand its current production level. GHK Truss will invest around $1 million in state-of-the-art equipment, including $838,050 in new machinery and equipment, $170,000 in building improvements, and $5,000 in new furniture, fixtures, and IT/hardware. The company will also add up to 15 new jobs to accommodate the increased demand.

GHK Truss started with small roots in 2008 and a focus on excellence, purpose, and team. The team has grown from eight original employees to over 43 in the last fifteen years. GHK Truss is committed to innovation, value, and service for customers, and remains primarily involved in residential, commercial, agriculture, and multi-family building projects.

“We’re excited for the opportunity to grow,” says Mike Gilley, one of the co-founders of GHK Truss. “Our business has become a trusted brand, and adding the new machinery and employees over the next few years will allow us to continue that trust for our current and future clients.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed an investment in GHK Truss of up to $175,000 in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.

“Indiana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem has a significant impact on the state’s economy and our local communities,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer of the IEDC. “The continued success and growth of Indiana-founded small businesses like GHK Truss is critical to our future and to creating more quality job opportunities for Hoosiers.”

“The Town of Clarksville enthusiastically supports GHK Truss’s plans to expand their current operations,” says Kevin Baity, town manager. “Their growing presence will continue to add value to our community and local economy. We congratulate GHK Truss on their continued success.”

“We’re thrilled to see GHK Truss expand its reach,” says John Launius, vice president and director of economic development at One Southern Indiana (1si). “GHK Truss’s expansion underscores the great business environment of Clarksville and the entire region. 1si will continue to work with GHK Truss as they operationalize this investment and serve their customers.”


About GHK Truss, LLC
Since GHK Truss’ founding in 2008 by three friends, the company has been on a path of growth. GHK Truss serves three states, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio, in various projects, including residential, multifamily, commercial, and agricultural. GHK Truss is committed to continuous innovation, value, and service for our customers needing structural building components. For more information, visit www.ghktruss.com.

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:

GHK Truss
Michael Harlowe, Partner
Mharlowe@ghktruss.com
812-282-6600

One Southern Indiana
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266

 

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New Microbrewery Headed to Historic Georgetown

by with One Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Off the Rails, LLC is opening a new upscale microbrewery and restaurant, Rails and Ales Brew House, adjacent to Georgetown Park.  

Georgetown, Ind. (December 18, 2023)

Georgetown keeps on growing. Off the Rails, LLC has chosen a location on State Road 64 in Georgetown’s downtown, adjacent to Georgetown Park. This new venture, Rails and Ales Brew House, will be a welcomed amenity to support continued residential growth in the region.

Rails and Ales Brew House will be an upscale microbrewery and restaurant, with its design and theme coming from the railroad tracks that travel through the historic portion of Georgetown. The two-story building will house two bars and a self-service restaurant.  Customers will also be able to order food to go using their drive-through.

“We can’t wait to bring this microbrewery and restaurant to Georgetown,” said Justin Juhasz, one of the owners of Rails and Ales Brew House. “Our hope is to create an atmosphere new to the Georgetown area and showcase our beautiful town by having a dining option close to the Georgetown Park.”

In addition to brewing their own craft beer, Rails and Ales Brew House will carry a selection of craft beers from other breweries, as well as wine options. They will also have TVs and other amenities to make it the local spot to relax and spend time with friends and family.

Off the Rails, LLC estimates over $1,000,000 will go into the building for improvements, new equipment, and more. The location also plans to hire at least eight individuals for full-time roles.  To support this growth, the Town of Georgetown is offering the company personal and real property tax abatement, phasing in its new property taxes over four and six years, respectively.

“The Town Council is thrilled to see this investment in our downtown,” noted Chris Loop, Town Council President. “Residents have been asking for a concept just like this, and our redevelopment plan calls for it. Our tax incentives should signal that the Town of Georgetown is open for business investment.”

“One Southern Indiana (1si) has seen a lot of growth in Georgetown over the last few years,” said John Launius, Vice President and Director of Economic Development with One Southern Indiana. “Off the Rails, LLC is bringing an exciting new opportunity for residents of Georgetown with Rails and Ales Brew House, and we will continue to partner with them to position them for long-term success in the region.”  

About Off the Rails, LLC

Off the Rails, LLC is a local company in Georgetown, Ind. The owners also own Floyd Farm & Feed, a local farm, feed, and pet/livestock supply store that also offers pet grooming. The owners of Off the Rails, LLC are community-oriented and host several events each year, including an Easter egg hunt and scarecrow competition through Floyd Farm & Feed.

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:

Off the Rails, LLC
Rails and Ales Brew House
Justin Juhasz, Owner
floydfarmfeed@gmail.com
812-219-7699

One Southern Indiana
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266

Strategic Growth: Regional OEM and Parts Supplier Looks at Southern Indiana Expansion for Increased Capacity 

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Rush Group Limited LLC is set to strategically expand its regional operations to support growth.

SELLERSBURG, IN. (December 11, 2023) 

Rush Group Limited LLC, established in 2011 as an automotive-industry partner in the Detroit area, looks to expand operations to Sellersburg, IN. As a minority-owned and purpose-driven company, the group fulfills an important need for large clients who have made diversity part of hiring and procurement processes while getting the highest quality products at a fair price. The Rush family of companies has focused on a community and customer-centered approach since their formation in 1984.

Rush Group Limited now plans to invest $15 million to support strategic operational growth, which includes new machinery and equipment, IT/hardware, building improvements, and new furniture and fixtures at the Sellersburg facility. Plans also include leasing 417,270 sq ft. in Silver Creek Logistics Center – Building B, located at 7803 Highway 31 in Sellersburg, IN, which was recently developed by Clarion Partners and represented by NAI Fortis Group. In addition, the Sellersburg-based operation will also add up to 180 new full-time jobs.

“We’re excited for the company’s continued growth as it indicates the confidence and value offered to our customers,” says Lori Lancaster, President of Rush Group Limited. “Our success is built on being a trusted partner to our clients and this investment in the Town of Sellersburg strongly positions us to meet our growing client demand.”

Based on the company’s investment and job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed an investment in Rush Group Limited, LLC of up to $1.8 million in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. The Town of Sellersburg has also approved a five-year personal property tax abatement to encourage the company to select this site.
 
I’m thrilled to see Rush Group Limited choose Indiana as the location for their expanded operations,” said Ann Lathrop, Chief Strategy Officer at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. “Rush Group Limited is a natural fit for Indiana—together we’ll play to each other’s strength in manufacturing, logistics and supply chain management. Their commitment to bringing high-quality career opportunities to diverse communities will bring prosperity and growth to Sellersburg. I’m really looking forward to seeing how the company and community will grow together.”

“The Town of Sellersburg enthusiastically welcomes this significant project from the Rush Group Limited to our growing community,” says Brad Amos, Council President for the Town of Sellersburg. “This planned investment, and subsequent hiring of 180 employees, offers a recurring benefit to our community and local economy that will be realized for years to come. Congratulations to Rush Group Limited on the continued growth within the region, and welcome to the Town of Sellersburg!” 

“This announced growth from Rush Group Limited is yet another nod to our region’s unparalleled manufacturing and logistics advantage,” says John Launius, Vice President and Director of Economic Development at One Southern Indiana (1si). “Rush Group Limited and their affiliated companies offer a tremendous and growing value to their customers, and we are honored they have chosen the Town of Sellersburg and our entire region to invest.”

About One Southern Indiana 
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development, and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.  

 

Contact: 

Rush Group Limited, LLC
Aaron River
Aaron.Rivers@rushgroup-ltd.com
502-710-9970
 

One Southern Indiana 
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager 
BrittanyS@1si.org  
812-945-0266 

 

Gov. Holcomb announces Canadian Solar building new $800M solar cell manufacturing facility in Southeast Indiana

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Company’s investment will add 1,200 jobs, produce 5GW annually at River Ridge Commerce Center in Jeffersonville, powering solar energy across U.S.

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. October 30, 2023– Governor Eric Holcomb today announced plans for a new solar photovoltaic (PV) cell production facility in Indiana. Canadian Solar’s new plant, which will be the company’s second solar module production facility in the U.S., will create approximately 1,200 new jobs in Jeffersonville over the next several years. 

“Indiana’s strong advanced manufacturing sector positions the state to help lead the global energy transition, developing and powering new solutions in batteries, solar and hydrogen,” said Gov. Holcomb. “Canadian Solar’s new U.S. location in Jeffersonville will put our skilled Hoosier workforce at the center of cultivating solar power, making energy efficient panels more accessible to consumers across the country.”

Canadian Solar, an integrated provider of solar power products, services and system solutions, will invest a projected $800 million to construct and equip a state-of-the-art PV cell manufacturing plant at the River Ridge Commerce Center in Jeffersonville. The new plant will produce an annual output of 5GW – equivalent to approximately 20,000 high-power solar panels per day – and ship the finished cells to the company’s new module assembly facility in Texas, announced earlier this year. Production is expected to begin by the end of 2025. 

“Establishing this factory is a key milestone that will enable us to better serve our U.S. customers with the most advanced technology in the industry,” said Dr. Shawn Qu, founder and CEO of Canadian Solar, emphasizing the importance of this new facility. “This is the second of the anticipated long-term investments we expect to make in the U.S. as we think strategically about a sustainable and resilient clean energy supply chain. We thank the state of Indiana, Clark County, and the city of Jeffersonville for their critical support and we look forward to working with them as we grow.”

Canadian Solar plans to begin hiring for new positions in mid-2024 and will ramp up hiring in early 2025 to fully staff the Jeffersonville plant. This facility joins the global manufacturing facilities in Canada, China, Brazil, Vietnam and Thailand.

“The city of Jeffersonville is pleased that Canadian Solar has chosen River Ridge Commerce Center as home for their newest critical production facility in the United States,” said Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore. “Not only are they making a large financial investment into our community, but they will also become one of the largest single-site employers in the Greater Louisville region. When in full production, their total employment base will include over 150 engineers at this facility. We are thrilled to see a global industry leader join our community and provide a product with enormous potential.”

“This is a historic investment in River Ridge and Southern Indiana,” said Jerry Acy, executive director of the River Ridge Development Authority. “The technologies of the future are being built right here at River Ridge, I want to thank Dr. Shawn Qu and his team at Canadian Solar for their commitment to our region. We look forward to a successful partnership that will launch the next generation of solar power.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation committed an investment in Canadian Solar of up to $9.7 million in the form of conditional tax credits and up to $400,000 in conditional training grants. The IEDC also committed an investment of up to $2 million in conditional redevelopment tax credits based on the company’s investment plans and up to $200,000 in Manufacturing Readiness Grants. These incentives are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim state benefits once investments are made and employees are hired and trained. The City of Jeffersonville and the River Ridge Development Authority offered additional incentives.

                                                                         – 30 –

About Canadian Solar Canadian Solar was founded in 2001 in Canada and is one of the world’s largest solar technology and renewable energy companies. It is a leading manufacturer of solar photovoltaic modules, provider of solar energy and battery storage solutions, and developer of utility-scale solar power and battery storage projects with a geographically diversified pipeline in various stages of development. Over the past 22 years, Canadian Solar has successfully delivered around 88 GW of premium-quality, solar photovoltaic modules to customers across the world. Likewise, since entering the project development business in 2010, Canadian Solar has developed, built and connected around 8.8 GWp in over 20 countries across the world. Currently, the Company has approximately 574 MWp of projects in operation, 6.7 GWp of projects under construction or in backlog (late-stage), and an additional 18 GWp of projects in advanced and early-stage pipeline. Canadian Solar is one of the most bankable companies in the solar and renewable energy industry, having been publicly listed on the NASDAQ since 2006. For additional information about the Company, follow Canadian Solar on LinkedIn or visit www.canadiansolar.com

International Restaurant Chain Announces New Bakery and Distribution Hub in Southern Indiana

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated will open a large-scale bakery to distribute its iconic desserts. 

Charlestown, IN. (October 25, 2023) 

Charlestown is welcoming a high-profile name to its community. The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated, an industry-leading restaurant, is opening a large bakery for manufacturing and distributing its iconic cheesecake and other desserts to operators, retailers, and distributors. The bakery and operations will be housed in the River Ridge Commerce Center and will invest over $74 million into the land, construction, machinery, fixtures, and IT. By 2025, the bakery and distribution operations should have more than 200 employees, making an average wage higher than the Clark County average.  

The Cheesecake Factory, known for its extensive menu, is a leader in experiential dining. The company has more than 300 restaurants in the United States and Canada across its portfolio of concepts and operates two bakery facilities in the United States. They were named to the FORTUNE Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For®” list for the 10th consecutive year in 2023. The bakery’s role is to produce high-quality cheesecake and desserts for the company’s restaurants and licensees as well as third-party customers.  

“We are very pleased to locate our new bakery production facility in Charlestown, Indiana,” said David Overton, Founder, Chairman and CEO of The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated.  “This year is the 51st anniversary of my parents opening the first Cheesecake Factory Bakery, and it also marks the 45th anniversary of opening our first restaurant in Beverly Hills.  Over the last half-century our desserts have developed a reputation around the world, and we are so pleased that we’ll have a third bakery production facility to support our domestic and international growth into the future.”   

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed to an investment in The Cheesecake Factory Bakery of up to $2.6 million in the form of conditional tax credits and up to $100,000 in conditional training grants. These incentives are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired and investments are made. River Ridge Commerce Center is also offering tax savings of approximately $6.3 million on real and personal property and will be making additional road improvements to support the project.  

“Indiana’s strengths in agbioscience and manufacturing make our state the ideal destination to help companies like The Cheesecake Factory to develop products and serve customers across the country,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer at the IEDC. “As a state, we’re committed to advancing economic and community development in all communities across Indiana. This new investment will accelerate industry growth in Charlestown and the surrounding southeast Indiana region, creating new jobs and new opportunities for Hoosier families to prosper.” 

“What an amazing opportunity for the City of Charlestown and the region,” said Mayor Treva Hodges. “We are excited to be the third production site for The Cheesecake Factory’s bakery operations, and can’t wait to see the community impact their investment will bring our growing area.   

“This commitment by The Cheesecake Factory to bring its bakery production facility to River Ridge is a major moment for the commerce center and exemplifies the investment and rapid growth we’re creating on the Charlestown side of River Ridge,” said Jerry Acy, River Ridge Development Authority Executive Director. “It is truly a pleasure working with David Overton and his team at The Cheesecake Factory, I am proud of what this partnership brings to Southern Indiana and the region.”

“This is a huge win for the City of Charlestown and the Southern Indiana region,” added John Launius, Vice President and Director of Economic Development for One Southern Indiana.  “It is exciting for us to be the newest home to a company with great name recognition and a stellar international reputation for service and quality.  The company’s growth trajectory will benefit Southern Indiana families for decades to come.” 

About The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated 

The Cheesecake Factory is a leader in experiential dining. We are culinary forward and relentlessly focused on hospitality. Delicious, memorable experiences created by passionate people – this defines who we are and where we are going. We currently own and operate 324 restaurants throughout the United States and Canada under brands including The Cheesecake Factory®, North Italia® and a collection within our Fox Restaurant Concepts business. Internationally, 31 The Cheesecake Factory® restaurants operate under licensing agreements. Our bakery division operates two facilities that produce quality cheesecakes and other baked products for our restaurants, international licensees and third-party bakery customers. In 2023, we were named to the FORTUNE Magazine “100 Best Companies to Work For®” list for the tenth consecutive year. To learn more, visit www.thecheesecakefactory.com, www.northitalia.com and www.foxrc.com. 

From Fortune ©2023 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune and Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For are registered trademarks of Fortune Media IP Limited and are used under license. Fortune and Fortune Media IP Limited are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated. 

About One Southern Indiana 
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org. 

Contact: 
The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated 
Investors  
Etienne Marcus 
818-871-3000 
investorrelations@thecheesecakefactory.com  

Media
Berk Communications
Brooke Levine / Gabrielle Gaines
732-735-5982 / 917-991-8354 
cheesecake@berkcommunications.com

One Southern Indiana 
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager 
BrittanyS@1si.org  
812-945-0266 

 

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One Southern Indiana Launches Search to Find New President and Chief Executive Officer

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

Waverly Partners, a nationwide executive search firm, has completed the profile for interested candidates.

New Albany, IN (October 24, 2023) – The Board of Directors of One Southern Indiana (1si) has begun the search for the next President and Chief Executive Officer, retaining Waverly Partners as its executive search firm.  Waverly Partners serves chambers and economic development organizations throughout the country and is the preferred provider of executive search services for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.  Bryan Wickens, Executive Vice President/General Counsel of MAC Construction & Engineering and current 1si Board Chair, will head up the 10-member search committee working with Waverly Partners to identify qualified local, regional, and national candidates. 

“Our committee has developed a Position Profile with the experience and leadership characteristics of our preferred candidate,” said Wickens.  “We are open to executives with backgrounds in economic development, chambers of commerce, business associations, other kinds of nonprofits, private sector, or related experience with a commitment to our mission of economic growth and business advocacy in our region.”  A summary of the CEO position is available on 1si’s website.

Wendy Dant Chesser, 1si’s current CEO, who has led the organization for the past ten years, has accepted a role with the River Ridge Development Authority in Jeffersonville.  The Board is now embarking on a national search to identify a new CEO who can lead the organization to new levels of success.  

For more information about the search or to express interest in the position or make a recommendation, please contact Waverly Partners consultants Eric Peterson and Debbie Galbraith at 1si@Waverly-Partners.com;  all inquiries will be held in confidence.

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:
Brittany Schmidt
Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266

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CEO POSITION SUMMARY

 

Local AISC Certified Steel Fabricator and Manufacturer Expanding Operations

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Midwest Metal Works, Inc. is expanding operations to include new machinery and training.

New Albany, IN. (October 19, 2023)

Midwest Metal Works, Inc. is growing. The steel fabricator and manufacturer plan to invest in new machinery and training to increase production and create additional business for the Indiana-based company. The total capital investment is estimated at $1,372,873, creating 12 more jobs with an average wage of over $42.00.

Midwest Metal Works has been a local industrial, commercial, and sheet metal fabricator and manufacturer since 2006. The company includes skilled journeymen and apprentices and has created products for many industries, including power generation plants, oil refineries, food manufacturers, automotive, distilleries, and the Department of Defense. Currently, they have 11 full-time employees with an average wage of $37.00.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to expand our current operations,” said Jeff Elzy, President of Midwest Metal Works. “The increased growth we have seen over the years has led to this expansion, and with the new equipment, we can now produce more for our current clients and increase our client base to include companies that currently look out of Indiana for their products.”

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed to an investment in Midwest Metal Works of up to $100,000 in the form of conditional tax credits. The IEDC also committed an investment of up to $73,140 in Manufacturing Readiness Grants, which are designed to help companies invest in smart manufacturing and new technologies. These incentives are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired and investments are made. In addition, the City of New Albany is offering the company personal and real property tax abatement, phasing in over five and ten years, respectively.

“Indiana’s robust manufacturing sector continues to accelerate and create new, high-wage jobs thanks to the commitment of companies like Midwest Metal Works,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer at the IEDC. “As a state, we’re working hand-in-hand with manufacturers to make critical investments in smart technologies and processes to future-proof our businesses, upskill jobs and push Hoosier manufacturing forward, ensuring Indiana is at the forefront of developing and producing the products that power tomorrow’s global economy.”

“The City of New Albany was pleased to be able to assist Midwest Metal Works with their expansion,” stated Mayor Jeff Gahan. “It’s wonderful to see companies like Midwest Metal Works recognize the value of being located here in our River City, and we are so proud that they have chosen to expand in New Albany.”

 “We are very excited to see Midwest Metal Works continue to grow,” said John Launius, Vice President and Director of Economic Development at One Southern Indiana. “Not only are they expanding current operations, but they are also contributing to our region’s sustained economic growth by creating more opportunities for our local community.”

 

About Midwest Metal Works

Midwest Metal Works specializes in industrial metal fabrication, installation, and maintenance. With skilled journeymen and apprentices, we are able to complete the work on time and on budget. Decades of experience have allowed our reputation to grow, along with our capabilities and our client list. We supply a variety of industries, including Power Generation Plants, Oil Refineries, Food Manufacturers, Distilleries & the Automotive industry. We offer the highest level of customer service to meet the demanding expectations of our customers. For more information on Midwest Metal Works, visit www.midwestmetalworksinc.com.

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:

Midwest Metal Works
Jeff Elzy, President
jeffelzy@midwestmetalworksinc.com
812-981-0810

One Southern Indiana
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266

Executive Search Firm Selected for One Southern Indiana’s CEO and President Search

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

New Albany, IN. (September 19, 2023) – The One Southern Indiana (1si) Board of Directors has approved hiring Waverly Partners, a nationwide executive search firm with offices in, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Kansas City, to handle the President and Chief Executive Officer search. Waverly Partners was selected following an RFP process that resulted in a large number of highly competitive proposals.
   
Formed in 2001, Waverly Partners has expansive knowledge in executive-level recruitment and has a wide variety of clients, including Fortune 500 corporations, nonprofits, and professional service firms across the country. Their nonprofit clientele includes chamber of commerce and economic development organizations. 

“We are pleased to bring on Waverly Partners as our executive search firm,” noted Bryan Wickens, 1si Board Chair.  “Waverly Partners knows much about our region and what we seek regarding our next  CEO and President of 1si. Their record on successful CEO searches and proactive engagement with our Search Committee and process has been extraordinary, and we are excited to work with them moving forward in this important effort. ”

Waverly Partners will work with the 1si search committee, comprised of stakeholders, Board of Director members, business members, and investors. They will meet in the forthcoming weeks to create a detailed search plan and schedule meetings and opportunities for input from stakeholders, members, and investors. 
  
“Waverly Partners has an excellent track record when it comes to hiring for executive-level roles,” says Wendy Dant Chesser, current CEO and President of 1si. “I do not doubt that they will be able to find someone to continue the great work that 1si is doing for our Southern Indiana and Louisville Metro area.” 

If you have any confidential nominations or recommendations or would like to discuss the CEO opportunity, please contact Waverly Partners consultants Eric Peterson and Debbie Galbraith via email: 1si@Waverly-Partners.com.  

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:
Brittany Schmidt
Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager
BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266


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Louisville-based manufacturer to expand into Southern Indiana

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Conco, Inc. opening a new facility and investing over $54 million in Scottsburg.

Scottsburg, IN. (August 14, 2023)

Southern Indiana is celebrating the growth of another manufacturing company in the region. Conco, a full-time, full-service supplier of ammunition containers and related services, plans to invest $54.5 million to establish a second facility in the region, this one located in Scottsburg, Indiana. The company’s investment includes over $36 million in new equipment, furnishings, fixtures, hardware, and software; $11.5 million to purchase the former Tokusen USA space; and $6.9 million in improvements to the existing spaces. 

This investment will result in up to 175 new full-time positions at the Scottsburg location, including Production Team Members, Quality Technicians, Welders, Paint Technicians, Process Technicians, Controls Technicians, Tool & Die, Industrial Maintenance, Electricians, Engineering and Administration at an average wage of $28 per hour.

Conco has served the United States Armed Forces as a supplier since 1967. With a strong reputation for high-quality products, on-time delivery, and tech support, they continue to meet military needs and develop innovative products to adapt to ever-changing requirements. Conco is also a designated “return site” equipped to store, de-militarize, and prepare container models for reuse and resale. Their specialized products include insensitive munitions, rectangular containers, square bell containers, and round bell containers, in addition to their refurbished container options.

“We are excited to join the Southern Indiana region with our new facility in Scottsburg,” said Karen Paschal, President and CEO of Conco, “When looking at locations, the former Tokusen USA space was a perfect fit for what we needed to expand, and we look forward to working with the State of Indiana, the City of Scottsburg, and its residents to create additional growth for the region.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) has committed to an investment in Conco of up to $1.925 million in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. In addition, the City of Scottsburg is offering the company personal and real property tax abatement, phasing in over five and ten years, respectively.

“Indiana’s defense sector continues to grow, and we’re excited to welcome Conco to our network of advanced manufacturers that are contributing to and supporting our nation’s armed forces,” said Governor Eric J. Holcomb. “Conco’s decision to locate in Scott County is a testament to the region’s skilled workforce and vibrant communities, and the company’s presence in southern Indiana will further advance new patriotic career opportunities for families for years to come.” 

“The City of Scottsburg is thrilled to be working with Conco and helping them establish a home in Scottsburg,” said Terry Amick, Mayor of the City of Scottsburg. “We are proud to support their efforts as they expand their services for the United States Armed Forces and are excited to see the local community growth they will bring to the area.”

“Southern Indiana has seen major manufacturer growth over the last several years with projects expanding or new locations opening in the region,” said Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana. “Conco’s decision to expand and open a new location in Scottsburg shows that our region remains a prime location for manufacturers – big and small, current and new. 1si is excited to see what Conco will bring to the manufacturing region and look forward to continuing this partnership and assisting them in any way we can.”

About Conco, Inc.
Conco is a designated “small business” with 50 years of experience dedicated to the ammunition container market and is ISO 9001:2015 certified. Conco is centrally located in Louisville, KY, and is currently the prime contract container supplier for several U.S. Army ammunition programs. For more information, visit concocontainers.com. If interested in a position at Conco, email resumes to resumes@concocontainers.com.

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:

Conco, Inc.

Karen Paschal, President & CEO

kpaschal@concocontainers.com

502-962-2121

 

One Southern Indiana
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager

BrittanyS@1si.org
812-945-0266

 

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One Southern Indiana Board of Directors Announces Transition Plan for CEO and President

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press Release

Wendy Dant Chesser, current CEO and President, announced her resignation last month.

New Albany, IN. (August 10, 2023) – The One Southern Indiana (1si) Board of Directors has approved a CEO transition and search plan to guide the organization during the next several months.  Wendy Dant Chesser, current CEO and President, is resigning her position as of October 26, 2023, and this transition plan includes hiring a search firm for 1si’s next president and CEO and ensuring all duties and projects currently performed by the President are completed or transitioned to other staff members by this date.

The search committee, comprised of stakeholders, Board of Directors, business members, and investors, will be led by Bryan Wickens, the current Chair of the Board of Directors. The search committee issued a Request for Proposals and will analyze and hire a search firm to facilitate the candidate identification and interview process.

“Wendy has done an excellent job for nearly 11 years, and we appreciate all that she has done in guiding the organization,” noted Wickens.  “We know that change can be challenging, but we truly have an incredible opportunity in front of us to build on her work and the wonderful foundation of 1si’s past accomplishments.  We are committed to finding the leader we need today to take our organization and region to the next level.”

The committee plans to engage board members, business members, and stakeholders during the search process. If a candidate is not found or hired by Wendy’s last day, an Interim CEO will be considered until a permanent replacement is found. Chesser will continue her current projects and duties until her resignation date but will have a secondary lead for ongoing projects and duties.

“I am pleased with the transition plan that the Executive Committee has developed for the remainder of my time at 1si,” said Chesser, “1si is in good hands with the current team of leadership and staff and will continue the mission to help businesses thrive and innovate in Southern Indiana and Louisville metro area.”

About One Southern Indiana
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.

Contact:
Brittany Schmidt, Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager

BrittanyS@1si.org | 812-945-0266

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