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711 E. Wells Ave.
Pierre, SD57501
(605) 773-3301
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 21, 2006
CONTACT: Sarah Van Berkum, 773-3301
PIERRE, S.D. – Adams Thermal Systems (ATS), a manufacturer of engine cooling systems for off-highway and on-highway vehicle applications, is seeing continued success in Canton, S.D. and will expand for the second time, Gov. Mike Rounds announced today. The locally-owned company plans to create 89 new full time jobs within the next few years with this expansion.
“This is a perfect example of how working together, we are supporting South Dakota’s entrepreneurs and impacting the state’s economy,” said Gov. Rounds. “I applaud the cooperative spirit of the folks at Adams Thermal Systems, the local community, and the state. Their combined efforts have made this a continued success.”
With the help of $1,575,000 of support from the state’s Revolving Economic Development and Initiative (REDI) Fund, ATS will add additional product lines to its manufacturing operations. “This plant expansion will allow for us to add several new manufacturing processes. These processes will enable us to manufacture products in Canton that we are currently purchasing from external sources. This vertical integration will result in additional opportunities for our employees and new jobs created in South Dakota,” said ATS owner Mike Adams.
Adams said the continued success of ATS is in large part due to the support the company has had from state and local leaders. “The Governor’s Office of Economic Development, Canton Economic Development Corporation, andLincoln County Economic Development Association have all played a vital role in the success we’ve had,” said Adams.
The Canton plant was previously owned by Behr, a large international corporation. When it became evident that the Canton operation was no longer part of their long term strategy, Adams moved forward with a plan to continue operations at the plant. Adams recognized there was still a strong existing market for the products the plant was producing, as well as significant future growth potential.
Adams formed Adams Thermal Systems and began production in the former Behr building in 2004.
“This expansion is great news for the Canton community. As the largest employer in the town, Adams Thermal Systems has benefited the entire area,” said Secretary of Tourism and State Development Richard Benda. “Supporting entrepreneurs like Mike Adams brings us one step closer to reaching South Dakota’s 2010 Initiative goal of increasing the gross state product by $10 billion.”
“This is a great example of how cooperation between the city, county, and state can spur economic growth,” said Jeff Eckhoff, executive director for the Lincoln and Minnehaha County Economic Development Associations. “The jobs Adams Thermal Systems provides is a tremendous asset to the area.”
Economic development here in Canton and across state is not only focused on bringing in new companies or businesses, but on assisting existing businesses grow and expand. This benefits us all, especially Canton and the surrounding area,” said John Anderson, president of the Canton Economic Development Corporation.
ATS manufactures cooling modules, radiators, charge air coolers, oil coolers, fuel coolers, and condensers for use in agricultural equipment, construction equipment, on-highway trucks, diesel engines and automotive and light truck applications.
ATS manufactures cooling modules, radiators, charge air coolers, oil coolers, fuel coolers, and condensers for use in agricultural equipment, construction equipment, on-highway trucks, diesel engines and automotive and light truck applications.
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