BENTON CHARTER TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Cornerstone Alliance, Berrien County’s lead economic development agency, has identified more than $6 Million in new investment and 30 new jobs by partnering with Gast Manufacturing to grow its Southwest Michigan operation.

Gast Manufacturing, a business unit of IDEX Corporation, has been a leader in the design and manufacturing of quality air-moving products for nearly a century. Gast plans to add at least 30 new jobs over the next three years.

“Gast Manufacturing has a long history of producing quality products while steadily growing its Southwest Michigan workforce,” said Greg Vaughn, Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Business Development at Cornerstone Alliance. “This expansion is another example of a global company excelling in Berrien County. In today’s hyper-competitive atmosphere, it’s more important than ever to have a cooperative partner in local government. The Benton Charter Township elected officials always conduct a thorough analysis of the expansion opportunities in front of them and provide a stable environment where businesses can succeed.”

The new investment in Gast’s existing facility, including the modernized labs, research and development areas, offices, conference rooms and general facility, will help Gast Manufacturing retain and attract new talent to Berrien County.

“Gast is grateful for the continued support of the Township and local community as we seek to make investments in our facility that will enable us to grow with and support our customers,” said Scott Kerns, President of Gast Manufacturing, Inc. “These specific investments will allow us to stay at the cutting edge of product technology, as well as create an atmosphere that will allow us to attract talent.”