Project will add 300-600 jobs
State Senator Bob Jauch (D-Poplar) praised the announcement by Kestrel Aircraft Chairman and CEO Alan Klapmeier that Kestrel will locate a new aircraft manufacturing facility in Superior that will create between 300 and 600 jobs.
“The Kestrel investment in Superior is as much an investment in the community as it is a private investment to construct a state of the art airplane,” Jauch said. “His decision demonstrates great confidence in our community and faith in our workforce to help him develop this next generation of aircraft.”
Jauch praised local economic development officials for their persistent efforts to seek a solid state and local financial partnership to support the Kestrel private investment. “Mayor Bruce Hagen and County Board Chair Doug Finn were particularly aggressive in making sure that no stone was unturned in looking for creative solutions to the complicated financial public-private partnership,” he said. “I am convinced that their determination was essential to this announcement but will also carry over to future economic development success stories in our community.”
Jauch also commended officials at WHEDA and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation who worked to provide strong state support for the project. “Secretary Jadin and WHEDA Director Winston were responsive and helpful in making sure that everyone’s hard work ended in success,” he said.
“This project is the perfect fit for our community. We have loyal and hardworking employees, a superb educational system and have community leaders with a can do attitude who are dedicated to the same level of excellence that Mr. Klapmeier has established in the aircraft industry,” he said.