Written by: M. Alan Scott Special to Battle Creek Enquirer

Alex Johnson has worked in the Michigan market for most of his career. So, it should come as no surprise that he is excited about the fact that ProTec Panel and Truss Manufacturing is opening up a new facility in Battle Creek later this year.

In fact, that facility will eventually house more than 50 employees if all goes to plan, said Johnson, vice president of the Michigan Market for ProTec, which is headquartered in Bremen, Indiana. The company’s total investment in the move is around $3 million.

“We quickly grew out of our current facility in Indiana,” Johnson said. “We have a lot of projects coming to Michigan through our business there, so this move made sense.”

ProTec is a manufacturer of trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels along with supplying framing lumber packages. The company designs and builds custom engineered components for residential, agricultural, multi-family, and commercial projects using the latest design software and manufacturing equipment.

The company purchased 23 acres at 370 Watkins Road in May at a location that has been vacant for 17 years, Johnson said. All but four of those acres are usable space. Johnson says ProTec will occupy about 26,000 square feet of warehouse and office space. Office staff from the Indiana office will initially ramp up the location with additional hiring over the next three years.

However, there will be an immediate need to hire 15 to 25 “shop” employees to help on the manufacturing side starting later this month. Johnson expects wages for these positions to start at $25 per hour plus benefits. Support for this project has been approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund through a Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant in the amount of $300,000.

Johnson hopes ProTec’s Battle Creek location will be partially operational by Nov. 1.

“Eventually we plan to have multiple shifts throughout the week,” Johnson said. “It’s a perfect location because it gives us direct highway access to eastern Michigan, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo and more.”

The expansion to Battle Creek will allow ProTec to establish a Michigan footprint while also meeting its growing customer demand. Construction permits in the Lansing and Kalamazoo markets in particular are rising, further supporting this strategic move, Johnson said.

ProTec’s customers include construction companies for commercial and residential properties.

“We are pleased to welcome ProTec Panel & Truss to Battle Creek,” said Joe Sobieralski, president and CEO of Battle Creek Unlimited in a statement. “This project will return a long-neglected property to productive use and create as many as 50 high-paying new jobs.”

The property ProTec purchased required significant cleanup, removal of overgrowth and grading, and that work will continue even after the facility open, Johnson said.

“We’re so glad to be in this market and to have this onsite presence,” Johnson said.

View the original Battle Creek Enquirer article here: https://www.battlecreekenquirer.com/story/news/local/2025/09/16/protec-panel-and-truss-manufacturing-battle-creek-location-michigan/86167439007/

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Protec Panel and Truss to expand in Battle Creek, creating 50 new jobs Weiss Technik NA announces expansion, creating 36 new jobs in Kentwood WarBird Protection opens operations in Kalkaska, creating 110 new jobs

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced three business expansions in Calhoun, Kent and Kalkaska counties. In total, over $31 million in capital investment and the creation of nearly 200 new jobs. ProTec Panel and Truss is expanding in Battle Creek, investing $3 million and creating 50 new jobs. Weiss Technick NA is planning $25.6 million of capital investment along with the creation of 36 new jobs. WarBird Protection will be investing $3 million in Kalkaska while creating 110 new jobs.

“Today’s announcements will build on Michigan’s economic momentum, creating nearly 200 good-paying manufacturing jobs,” said Governor Whitmer. “I want to thank Warbird, Protec, and Weiss Technik for choosing to invest in Michigan. Let’s keep working together to strengthen our economic development tools so we can help more workers and businesses make it in Michigan.”

“We’re growing Michigan’s economy and creating good-paying jobs in communities across our state,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Today’s announcement reinforces Michigan as a leader in manufacturing and innovation. Let’s keep Standing Tall so every innovator and entrepreneur can stay and succeed in Michigan and build the future.”

“Today, we are once again proud to share the exciting news of companies choosing to invest in communities across Michigan—creating new jobs and fueling local economies,” said Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President of Regional Development at the MEDC. “We continue to see both new businesses drawn to Michigan and homegrown companies expanding here because we have the right economic development tools in place to support and secure these vital investments. We applaud these companies and look forward to their continued growth and prosperity.”

ProTec Panel & Truss Manufacturing, LLC is a manufacturer of engineered wood roof trusses, floor trusses, and wall panels along with supplying framing lumber packages. They design and build custom engineered components for residential, agricultural, multi-family, and commercial projects using the latest design software and manufacturing equipment.

“Battle Creek is the perfect second location for us,” said Shane Soule, President of ProTec Panel & Truss. “It positions us closer to the heart of Michigan’s growth and gives us better access to legacy manufacturing talent. This move is about more than expanding our reach—it’s about delivering greater value, speed, and support to the partners who count on us.”

The company has purchased a vacant building in Battle Creek for their expansion that will allow the company to establish a Michigan footprint while also meeting its growing customer demand. Customers include construction companies for commercial and residential properties.

Their expansion into Michigan is anticipated to generate $3 million in capital investment while creating at least 50 new jobs with starting wages $25 per hour plus benefits, nearly $4 per hour above the regional media wage. Support for this project has been approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund through a Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant in the amount of $300,000.

“We are pleased to welcome ProTec Panel & Truss to Battle Creek,” said Joe Sobieralski, President & CEO of Battle Creek Unlimited. “This project will return a long-neglected property to productive use and create as many as 50 high-paying new jobs. As a manufacturer of roof & floor trusses and wall panels, ProTec will also help to address Michigan’s critical housing shortage. We are grateful to the MEDC for their generous support and look forward to ProTec starting production later this year.”

The company has chosen Michigan for the project because of the growth opportunities that the Michigan market presents and the access to legacy manufacturing talent in the Battle Creek labor market.

For those that may be interested in pursuing a career with ProTec Panel & Truss Manufacturing, please click HERE.

Read the Full MEDC Announcement Here 

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.

Introducing our July Company Spotlight – Geislinger Corporation

With roots in Austria and a global reputation for innovation, Geislinger Corporation has been a proud part of the Battle Creek community since establishing its North American headquarters here in 2001. A proud family-owned and multigenerational company, Geislinger is a world market leader for innovative powertrain solutions and built to last products for all kinds of high-performance drivelines. The product portfolio includes torsional vibration dampers, torsional elastic, high damping couplings, misalignment couplings, composite shaft lines, torsional vibration monitoring systems and digital solutions. Their innovative solutions are trusted across a wide range of industries, including marine, power generation, rail, construction, wind and renewable energy, industrial applications, mining and motorsports.

Geislinger’s Battle Creek operation serves as a critical hub for manufacturing, sales, and service across North and South America. Their solutions are known for durability, efficiency, and sustainability, supporting their customers in reducing emissions, extending equipment lifespan, and improving operational performance. When servicing their customers, the team at Geislinger combines deep engineering expertise with a commitment to quality.

Geislinger also shows commitment to strengthening their community and upskilling our local workforce. Geislinger invests in local talent and training, working with educational partners to build strong programming in skilled trades, promoting apprenticeships as a lucrative and viable career pathway, and participating in local groups to provide resources to the community and fellow manufacturers. The company actively supports workforce development initiatives such as internships, the Goodwill Connects Program, GoingPro, MiSTEM/MiStairs, and Craftsmen with Character—reinforcing its dedication to creating opportunities and empowering the next generation of skilled workers. With strong ties to the Fort Custer Industrial Park and the broader business community, Geislinger continues to grow its U.S. footprint while remaining dedicated to the Battle Creek region.

To learn more about Geislinger visit: https://www.geislinger.us

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 ABOUT BATTLE CREEK UNLIMITED
Established in 1972, Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development arm for the City of Battle Creek. BCU manages the Fort Custer Industrial Park, which is home to nearly 90 businesses, including more than two dozen international companies, and employs over 13,000 people. BCU’s mission is to build a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation in Battle Creek. For more information, visit www.bcunlimited.org

 MEDIA CONTACT – COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

Introducing our June Company Spotlight – Prairie Farms Dairy!

   Prairie Farms is a cooperative owned by over 600 farming families, dedicated to fresh products, sustainability, and animal care since 1938. Their offerings undergo rigorous quality control and are free from antibiotics and artificial growth hormones. The Prairie Farms Dairy’s Battle Creek facility, situated at 126 Brady Road, is a significant operation within this farmer-owned cooperative, and was established in the Fort Custer Industrial Park in 2003. This plant processes millions of pounds of milk weekly, sourced from 11 local dairy farms, and produces a diverse range of milk products and iced coffee.

In 2018, Prairie Farms invested nearly $29 million to expand the Battle Creek plant, introducing a cutting-edge ultra-high-temperature (UHT) pasteurization line. This advancement makes it the only Prairie Farms facility capable of producing UHT milk products in plastic bottles. The UHT process enhances the shelf life of milk and cream, enabling wider distribution throughout the U.S. In 2024, the Battle Creek plant earned 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards at the World Dairy Expo Product Contest in the Flavored UHT Milk category, showcasing that investing in efficiency does not mean compromising flavor.

Additionally, the local plant engages with organizations to give back to the community – such as the South Michigan Food Bank and Charitable Union. In collaboration with Milk Means More, the Calhoun County Visitors Bureau, and the Battle Creek Community Foundation, the plant also organizes family-friendly events like milk and cookie giveaways, aimed at bringing the community together and promoting the nutritional benefits of dairy. The plant takes pride in sponsoring the city’s yearly “National Cereal Festival,” in addition to supplying the milk, to honor the city’s history.

The Battle Creek facility plays a crucial role in bolstering local agriculture and supplying high-quality dairy products all over the Midwest. Learn more about Prairie Farms, their products, and even get recipes at: https://www.prairiefarms.com/.

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 ABOUT BATTLE CREEK UNLIMITED
Established in 1972, Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development arm for the City of Battle Creek. BCU manages the Fort Custer Industrial Park, which is home to nearly 90 businesses, including more than two dozen international companies, and employs over 13,000 people. BCU’s mission is to build a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation in Battle Creek. For more information, visit www.bcunlimited.org

 MEDIA CONTACT – COMPANY SPOTLIGHT

PRESS RELEASE

DoubleTree by Hilton Battle Creek Wins Hilton’s 2024 Americas Development Award

06/12/2025

BATTLE CREEK, MICH – The DoubleTree by Hilton Battle Creek has been honored with the 2024 Hilton Americas Development Award. This accolade celebrates the achievements of owners, development partners, and hotel teams in various categories throughout the Americas, and serves to highlight the dedication and innovative spirit of Hilton’s owners and team members, who truly embody the meaning of hospitality.

Over the course of the 2024 year, Hilton opened over 400 hotels in the Americas across their brand portfolio. Among these hotels, 49 winners were selected based on several criteria including commitment to quality projects and impact on local communities, among others. The DoubleTree by Hilton Battle Creek won in the DoubleTree brand in the Conversion category.

President & CEO of BCU, Joe Sobieralski, stated: “We’re honored to be recognized for this redevelopment effort that plays a key role in driving economic growth in downtown Battle Creek. Revitalizing this property was about more than just a building—it was about creating jobs, attracting investment, and building momentum for the future of our city. This wouldn’t have been possible without the commitment of our community and partners, whose support turned vision into reality. We’re thankful to Hilton for the recognition and congratulate our fellow honorees.”

Opening in October of 2024, the DoubleTree by Hilton Battle Creek was made possible with over $50 million in contributions from 13 community partners. Formerly the McCamly hotel, the property features a completely renovated and modern space with 247 rooms including suites, a full-service restaurant (“The Alloy”), a high-rise bar and lounge with sweeping city views (“50 Beacon”), over 16,000 square feet of meeting & event space. The property is also situated on an attractive green space in the heart of Downtown Battle Creek. In addition to serving as an attractive destination for guests and the public, it also serves as a teaching hotel to advance hospitality careers and educational opportunities with key local partners and educational institutions.

You can learn more about the hotel, room booking, and events on the official Hilton website for the property at: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/azocrdt-doubletree-battle-creek/.

Learn more about the awards here: https://stories.hilton.com/releases/winners-of-hiltons-2024-americas-development-awards-announced.

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ABOUT BATTLE CREEK UNLIMITED

Established in 1972, Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development arm for the City of Battle Creek and manages the Fort Custer Industrial Park. The Fort Custer Industrial Park is home to over 80 businesses, including 25 international companies, and employs over 13,000 people. BCU’s mission is to build a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation. Visit BCUnlimited.org for more info.

MEDIA CONTACT

We’re excited to kick off our Company Spotlight series with Gallagher Uniform.

Founded in 1893 in Detroit as “Detroit Waste Works, Inc.,” Gallagher Uniform opened a second plant in Battle Creek in 1937 to service Kellogg Company uniforms. While Detroit remained the primary location until 1975, Battle Creek became Gallagher’s official home after the Detroit operation was sold. Since then, their focus on customer satisfaction, personalized service, and a wide selection of workwear has earned them a trusted name in the industry for over 130 years.

Now five generations strong, this family-owned business provides custom uniforms, safety apparel, corporate wear, and facility services like floor mats, towels, and restroom supplies. They serve a wide range of industries with their rentals, including healthcare, pharmaceutical, food manufacturing, automotive, and general manufacturing, across West and Mid-Michigan, Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Northern Indiana. Their focus? Durability, comfort, and professionalism.

Gallagher Uniform has built a reputation as a reliable partner for businesses to present a polished image while keeping employees looking and feeling their best.

Gallagher isn’t just dedicated to its customers, they’re deeply invested in their people and community, too. From supporting local organizations like the United Way and the Battle Creek Community Foundation to expanding their facility for greater efficiency, they’re always working to grow the right way. They’re also proud members of key industry networks

like Apparel Services Network, CSC Network, and TRSA, so they’re always learning, innovating, and bringing those best practices back to the businesses they serve. Their dedication to fostering a robust company culture, emphasizing the employee experience, reflects their foundational values. This commitment guarantees that, alongside delivering a high-quality product, they also offer an exceptional place to work right here in Battle Creek.

To discover more about Gallagher Uniform, including their services and multi-generational history, visit their website at: https://www.gallagheruniform.com/.

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ABOUT BATTLE CREEK UNLIMITED
Established in 1972, Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development arm for the City of Battle Creek. BCU manages the Fort Custer Industrial Park, which is home to nearly 90 businesses, including more than two dozen international companies, and employs over 13,000 people. BCU’s mission is to build a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation in Battle Creek. For more information, visit www.bcunlimited.org

 MEDIA CONTACT – COMPANY SPOTLIGHT