Gov. Josh Shapiro announced that the Commonwealth has secured a nearly $4.7 million investment from metalforming technology company Nichols Portland, Inc. (NPI) to help expand its manufacturing operations in Elk County-a project that will create 42 new jobs and retain 285 existing positions.
NPI has moved from its MIM-Ridgway location into a larger technology hub and business showcase at 286 Piper Road in the St. Marys Industrial Airport Park, agreeing to a 10-year lease. This facility also serves as the company's corporate headquarters, supporting six manufacturing locations-three of which are located in Pennsylvania-and a global customer base.
"Nichols Portland's decision to expand here in Pennsylvania will create new opportunities for Pennsylvanians throughout Elk County and strengthen our manufacturing sector-and it is another sign that we are delivering real results on economic growth," said Gov. Shapiro. "My Administration is focused on building a skilled workforce, cutting red tape, and making the kinds of smart, strategic investments that help businesses grow and succeed here in the Commonwealth."
NPI received a funding proposal from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) that includes a $300,000 Pennsylvania First grant and a $76,000 WEDnetPA grant to train workers. The company is also encouraged to apply for the Manufacturing Tax Credit (MTC) program, which could provide additional tax savings.
The City of St. Marys also received a $614,000 grant through the Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites Program (PA SITES) to support this project. These funds will be used to increase gas pressure and expand electric supply at the St. Mary's Industrial Airport Park, where NPI has expanded its operations.
The St. Marys region is often referred to as the "powdered metal capital of the world" due to the region's significant role in the development of the technology and infrastructure base to supply the global market. In 2022, DCED awarded a $200,000 Manufacturing Training to Career grant to St. Marys Area School District to help prepare students for high-demand manufacturing careers.
NPI is an innovative manufacturing company that leverages advanced technology to deliver solutions for its global partners. The company produces powder metal components using conventional powder metallurgy (PM), metal injection molding (MIM), and metal additive 3D printing technologies, as well as mechanical and smart pumps and specialty valves serving the automotive, off-highway, and other diversified industries.
"We are excited to expand in Elk County, leveraging the expertise and solid workforce that has been the foundation of growth across the entire powder metal industry," said Thomas Houck, President and CEO of Nichols Portland, Inc. "With a focus on innovation and technology, we look forward to building NPI's future in Pennsylvania and beyond to support our global customer base."
For more information contact:
Nichols Portland, Inc.
286 Piper Road
St. Marys, PA 15857
814-773-3191
www.nicholasportlandinc.com