News Releases for June 2002
June 14, 2002
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Hoeven Cuts Ribbon At DMI Expansion. DMI, One of Largest Wind Tower Plants in U.S.
BISMARCK, N.D. - Governor John Hoeven today spoke at the ribbon cutting celebration at DMI, a $5 million wind tower manufacturing plant expansion in West Fargo. In his remarks, Hoeven praised DMI as an example of how an entrepreneur with a vision for the future can turn dreams into reality.
DMI is now one of the largest wind tower manufacturing plants in the United States, serving customers in 10 states and three Canadian provinces. The company has adopted new methods of production, expanded its facilities and will add 60 jobs to its current workforce of 170.
“DMI and its president, Mike Hohl, are an excellent example of how we’re getting things done in North Dakota because we’re doing things differently,” Hoeven said. “The company shows how we’re taking job development to a new level.”
DMI worked with state and local government to enhance its operation. One program DMI used is administered through the North Dakota Department of Commerce, Economic Development & Finance Division. The program, Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), is a federal-state partnership that helps address the needs of small- and medium-sized manufacturers. It addresses areas such as production techniques, technology applications and business practices. In addition, the Fargo-Cass County Economic Development Corporation helped DMI find the resources to expand its fabrication plant to 130,000 square feet on an 86-acre site.
During the ceremony, Hoeven presented the North Dakota Manufacturing Extension Partnership Success Story award to DMI president and chief operating officer, Mike Hohl, and the DMI employees. DMI is the first company to receive the award, which was presented on behalf of the board of directors and staff of MEP.
“DMI exemplifies a ‘can-do’ spirit that North Dakota can be proud of,” Hoeven said. “The company’s goal is to become the nation’s leader in wind tower manufacturing and to be number one in quality, service and customer relations among wind tower producers. They’re well on their way.”
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