Manufacturer Growing in Richmond

Richmond-based Ahaus Tool and Engineering Inc. has begun a $700,000 expansion. The company says recent growth has led to the need for its first addition in more than 20 years.

The expansion plans call for 9,000 square-feet of space and could create nearly a dozen jobs. The Economic Development Corporation of Wayne County, which will provide some grant money to the manufacturer, says five of the new positions will be local high school apprentices. President Kevin Ahaus says "the new assembly space will be valuable to compete for larger assembly and automation systems."

The company currently employs 100 workers and produces assembly and automation equipment, as well as workholding solutions for automotive, construction, mining and drilling and medical industry clients.

EDC of Wayne County President Valerie Shafferr calls nearly 70-year-old Ahaus a "perfect example of a company that has openings that pay better than average wages and require highly skilled workers." She adds, "the demand for skilled workers is growing in our region with numerous employers stating they have job openings and need skilled workers to fill them. Workforce development is critical for the continued success of our county and the region."