Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced growth in the state’s nonretail service and technology sectors as Provalus – a division of prominent information technology Optomi LLC – will locate in Monticello with a $3 million investment that will create 200 full-time jobs – the largest job-creation investment in Wayne County since 2010.
“The economic momentum we are seeing across the state is the result of companies believing in what Kentucky has to offer,” said Gov. Beshear. “Optomi is just the latest example, with the company creating an incredible 200 job opportunities for the families of Wayne County. I want to congratulate Optomi’s leadership and look forward to the company’s success here in the commonwealth.”
The new operation will be the company’s first in Kentucky, located in a 30,000-square-foot leased facility in Monticello that will allow the company to serve Fortune 2000 and larger clients in various domains, including cybersecurity, network operations, quality assurance, security, application development and back-office operations. Construction for building upgrades is scheduled to begin in January and be completed in December 2024.
“We are pleased to announce the first phase of our partnership with the State of Kentucky. Choosing a location for a new Provalus site is about far more than just job creation. It’s also about choosing a community to add to the Provalus family,” said Will Ruzic, Optomi’s vice president of facilities and operations. “Provalus is committed to expanding opportunities in rural America by growing, developing and investing in not only our people but the communities we call home. This launch means that Monticello will forever be a part of the Provalus story, and we trust that Provalus will play a significant role in shaping Monticello’s story moving forward.”
Founded in 2017, Provalus is a 100% U.S.-based outsourcing organization dedicated to creating technology opportunities in areas where few traditionally exist. By leveraging a unique approach that includes creating talent in rural, veteran-heavy American communities, Provalus is generating a dedicated and superior workforce while fueling a new era of technology talent equipped to strengthen America’s future. Provalus provides partner organizations with dependable and scalable solutions for IT, cybersecurity, customer experience and business process outsourcing initiatives.
Scott Gehring, Wayne County Judge/Executive, is optimistic of the local jobs the project will create: “I believe this successful company coming to our hometown will be very beneficial in so many ways and help open many doors. Provalus is 100% operated here in the U.S., and their goal to elevate high potential rural communities by creating technology, support and other service job opportunities is one that Wayne County is ready, willing and excited to fully support.”
Monticello Mayor Kenneth Catron Jr. is thrilled to welcome the company to the region, noting the economic impact and growth they will help foster: “The economic impact they will be bringing to our region is astronomical; a proven company that not only wants to provide a better life for their employees but also to help the community in which they make their new home. To have Provalus located here in Monticello is a sign of the growth and prosperity we are experiencing in our community, and this endeavor will be a massive component in the future success of our region.”
Frank V. Phillips, chairman of the Monticello-Wayne County Industrial Authority, looks forward to the opportunities the company’s investment will bring to the community: “The Monticello Wayne County Industrial Authority is excited about the opportunities that Provalus will provide to our area. Provalus is committed to providing competitive, sustaining jobs in rural America and this vision and goal will positively impact the citizens of Monticello and Wayne County for generations. Our board is committed to assisting Provalus, and we fully support and appreciate the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development for their assistance and support.”