Hemlock Semiconductor Will Have Huge Impact on Region
One of the largest industrial projects in the country has announced their intentions to build a multi-billion dollar poly-silicon plant in the Hopkinsville-Clarksville region. The company, which is a subsidiary of Dow Corning, is building a 1.2 billion dollar facility on the Clarksville, TN mega-site. The Clarksville mega-site borders Christian County and Todd County, KY.
The size and investment of the project are staggering. In the construction phase alone over 1000 workers will have a role in building the plant. Once constructed, 500 high paying jobs will be created and available to workers in the region.
The primary use of the product will be to supply the fast growing solar industry. Hemlock Semi-conductor, based in Michigan cited TVA’s reliable supply of electricity and competitive rates as reasons why the chose the region. Along with Hemlock, several spin-off facilities and customers will follow the project.
The Hopkinsville-Christian County EDC congratulates our partner in the MSA, Clarksville-Montgomery County for their efforts and willingness to help our economy grow.
To learn more about Hemlock Semiconductor click here.
Hopkinsville Industrial Foundation Accepts Bid for Speculative Building Pad
Scott & Murphy Contractors of Bowling Green have been awarded the bid to prepare a site for a speculative building in (Commerce Park). The dirt work will be finished by the spring.
Over the last twenty years, the Hopkinsville Industrial Foundation has built and sold ten speculative buildings. With this success in mind, the HIF wanted to take new steps to enhance their program by building a pad that would allow for a 200,000 square foot building to be placed on the site.
According to John Crenshaw, the president of the HIF, “we’re preparing a larger site this time to help our clients have the opportunity to expand their building quicker, without having to invest time or dollars into site work.”
For more information about the new speculative building in Hopkinsville email lconrad@hopkinsvilleindustry.com
Kirkman's Rolled Steel Celebrates Grand Opening
Kirkman’s Hardware has a long history of adapting to changing markets. Starting as a small grocery store in 1948, Kirkman’s has evolved into a full service hardware and construction supply company. Their retail inventory consists of building supplies; including windows, doors, cabinets, vinyl siding, metal siding and metal roofs.
Now Kirkman’s has taken the leap into the manufacturing business by starting a rolled steel operation. The product used in buildings, barns, and for metal roofs is in high demand. According to Kevin Cavanah, the President of Kirkman’s, “metal roofing is becoming more and more cost effective because of insulation. By having a metal roof, instead of a traditional shingle roof, you can save quite a bit of money on heating and cooling bills.” Cavanah added that Kirkman’s metal roofing holds a forty year warranty.
The Hopkinsville based company has constructed an 8200 square foot building to house the first phase of the operation. Kirkman’s plans to expand in the near future potentially doubling the size of the operation to 17,000 square feet. Plans are also in place to potentially enter the industrial grade rolled steel business when time permits.
Christian County Judge Executive Steve Tribble also articulated his appreciation for Kirkman’s continued investment in Christian County saying, “Kirkman’s has been a part of Christian County for a long time and we appreciate them continuing their investment here.” Tribble presented Kevin Cavanah and Rob McCormick, Plant Manager with a framed painting commemorating the Ribbon Cutting.
Local Industries Honored at Annual Event
Each year Hopkinsville gathers to recognize the value and impact of over 50 manufacturing and distribution companies. This year was no different. On November 5th, Hopkinsville’s leaders gathered to say “thank you” to the industries and distribution centers that provide jobs and a tax base that allows Hopkinsville-Christian County be a prosperous community.
"Local Manufacturing and Distribution Companies are the key to the success of our community. While we may be in trying times, we have much to be thankful for.” Eston Glover, EDC Chairman commented at the event.
A crowd of nearly 200 gathered at the Bruce Convention Center for this special recognition. Those attending enjoyed a motivational keynote address by Phillip Van Hooser. Van Hooser discussed the key attributes needed to be a successful leader in challenging economic times. Van Hooser recalled times when he was an executive for manufacturing companies and how he had to make tough choices to ensure the viability of the people who worked for him.
The Hopkinsville Industrial Foundation sponsored the lunch that was attended by community leaders, industrial leaders and supporters of the EDC.
Christian County Students Participate in Careers in Manufacturing Program
During the month of November, 40 middle school and high school students participated in the Careers in Manufacturing program. Students interested in math and science were invited to participate. Participants in the program explored a multitude of career opportunities in engineering and science related fields available within our community.
Many students went into the day thinking that manufacturing doesn’t require education or expertise. They certainly left understanding that today’s world of industry requires skills and training to have the opportunity to succeed.
A special thinks goes to T.RAD, Meritor, Ebonite, Continental Mills, and FP International for skillfully showcasing their first class operations and the wonderful products they manufacture.
Year End – Expansions and Announcements
Here is a re-cap of the announcements in Hopkinsville-Christian County for 2008.
Continental Mills
In 2008 Continental Mills finished construction and opened their new 215,000 square ft. distribution center in Hopkinsville. The new distribution center is attached to their manufacturing facility located in Commerce Park. The company is in the process of consolidating several eastern United States distribution points into the Hopkinsville facility.
Brazeway
Brazeway announced an expansion of $42 million dollars in the summer of 2008. They will expand their building by 75,000 square feet and add 85 new employees. Hopkinsville was chosen over two existing operations located in Mexico for this project.
Superior Graphite
Superior Graphite opened their new 18,000 square foot expansion for a new armored tile. The new tile is being manufactured for the United States military used by soldiers at Fort Campbell. The new facility was partially funded by a United States Department of Defense grant totaling $3 million dollars.
Kirkman’s Rolled Steel
Kirkman’s Rolled Steel announced and completed construction on a new rolled steel manufacturing facility. The rolled steel is used in the construction and agricultural industry. Kirkman’s has constructed an 8,200 square ft. facility and plans to expand to nearly 20,000 square ft. in the near future. Nearly 15 are employed with plans to increase.
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