Van-Am expands into aerospace field, creating more jobs in St. Joseph
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- Van-Am, a leading metal fabricator in the area, is expanding further into the aerospace industry and growing in St. Joseph.
The expansion will launch a new product line that enhances the company's capabilities and capacity offerings in the defense and aerospace industries. It will support a new defense contract award associated with the MK-41 weapon system, a cutting-edge technology component currently used by the Navy.
The company will invest approximately $1.5 million in new manufacturing-related machinery and equipment, and will spend another $150,000 on upgrades to its St. Joseph facilities to support its role as a supplier to the defense and aerospace industries.
The growth includes the addition of at least 17 new full-time positions within the next two years, with an average starting wage of $62,288
"We're thrilled to see Van-Am expand its defense and aerospace operations here," said Natalie Hawn, president and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. "It's a strong vote of confidence in our workforce, our infrastructure and the future of our region."
St. Joseph was competing with another city for the expansion, ultimately becoming the destination.
"We're proud to see Van-Am expand its operations in St. Joseph," said Mayor John Josendale. "Investments like this create high-quality jobs, strengthen our local economy and demonstrate the confidence businesses have in our community."
The St. Joseph Economic Development Partnership and Chamber of Commerce coordinated efforts between the company and local and state agencies to make the expansion a reality in St. Joseph.
The project includes a forgivable loan from the Buchanan County Economic Development Loan Fund.
"The purpose of the Buchanan County Economic Development Loan Fund is for projects just like this," Buchanan County Presiding Commissioner Scott Fricker said. "Simply put, the County likes to help established businesses in manufacturing/production in our area expand their scope of operations and create new jobs for our community. We call this taking care of our own. This is an efficient use of our limited funding."
The Missouri Department of Economic Development also provided the company assistance through its Missouri Works Program.
"Van-Am has been an important part of Missouri's manufacturing landscape for more than four decades, and we're excited to see the company investing in its future," said Michelle Hataway, the director of the Department of Economic Development. "This $1.5 million capital investment in Buchanan County and the creation of 17 new high-paying jobs reflect the strength of Missouri's advanced manufacturing sector. Van-Am has demonstrated a strong commitment to our state and we're proud to support the company's continued growth and success."
Gov. Mike Kehoe sees the expansion as a signal of Missouri's manufacturing strength.
"Missouri's manufacturing sector continues to play a vital role in strengthening our nation's defense and our state's economy," said Gov. Mike Kehoe. "The expansion of Van-Am and its new partnership with the U.S. Navy highlight the advanced capabilities of Missouri companies and the highly skilled workforce that powers them. We're proud to see Van-Am continuing to grow, create jobs and contribute to the critical products that help keep our nation safe."
Under the leadership of CEO Keith Mills, a long-time advocate of the project, Van-Am continues to expand its capabilities and production capacity to meet increasing industry demand.
The company's technical expertise and commitment to quality position it for continued partnership opportunities across defense, aerospace and other industrial sectors.
"This new technology will expand our capabilities and increase our capacity," said Mills. "This component, used by the U.S. Navy, is equipment we stand by, and it will provide more opportunities for collaboration and partnerships."
Founded in 1981, Van-Am employs more than 100 team members and continues to grow. In 2022, the company expanded its operations with the addition of the second facility dedicated to paint and additional welcoming capabilities.
In 2024, the company strengthened its presence in the defense sector through the acquisition of a facility in Waverly, Iowa.
