Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted an exciting new project within the state’s manufacturing sector as Muehlenkamp Properties Inc., doing business as Paragon Metal Fabricators, announced plans to locate a new manufacturing operation in Pendleton County with an investment of over $6 million and creation of 40 Kentucky jobs.
“Kentucky’s strength comes from our ability to persevere through challenges and continue to move forward,” said Gov. Beshear. “Paragon Metal Fabricators will be a tremendous addition to the Falmouth community, bringing with them quality job opportunities and a boost to the local economy. I am glad to see this business grow here in the commonwealth and look forward to its continued success.”
To meet growing consumer and industry demand, Paragon Metal Fabricators will establish a new manufacturing operation in Falmouth, which will serve as their second location in the commonwealth. The project will see the company locate in a facility previously owned by Hammer Strength, which after a company-wide consolidation of various locations, closed operations last month after 35 years of business in the community. The new space will create 40 new jobs and allow for increased production times as well as new machinery and operating capabilities, which will include sheet lasers, tube lasers and forming improvements. The more efficient operation will help the company stay competitive within the metal fabrication industry and attract new business.
“Our family is from Northern Kentucky, and we are proud Kentuckians,” said Bryan Muehlenkamp, president of Paragon Metal Fabricators. “We are grateful and excited about our continued growth in the commonwealth and expansion into the Pendleton County and Falmouth location. We will be able to utilize some of the talented and experienced workforce from Hammer Strength to immediately and seamlessly start manufacturing products. We are thankful for the state, Pendleton County and Life Fitness’ guidance, support and direction during this process. Pendleton County and Life Fitness worked together to keep manufacturing jobs in Falmouth. Paragon hopes to follow in Hammer Strength’s footsteps and be a valuable partner to the community and Falmouth continuing forward.”
Established in 1989 by brothers Joe, Stan and Mark Muehlenkamp, Paragon Metal Fabricators was formed after years of planning and market research showed an overwhelming need for quality metal fabrication in the Cincinnati region and surrounding areas. Today, the Erlanger-based company combines over 40 years of industry expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver quality and service in metal fabrication to multiple markets, including oil and gas, filtration, enclosures, heavy equipment and refrigeration industries, among others.
Pendleton County Judge/Executive David S. Fields looks forward to the company providing quality job opportunities for the community: “The closure of Hammer Strength was a tough loss for our community, affecting nearly 100 hardworking individuals and their families. However, the addition of Paragon Metal Fabricators to this facility is a testament to the resilience of Pendleton County and the hard work of our economic development program. We are excited to welcome a company that not only brings back jobs but also creates new opportunities for growth and stability. This investment strengthens our local economy and enhances the quality of life for our residents.”
Rick Mineer, District 4 magistrate on the Pendleton Fiscal Court, is excited to welcome the company to the area: “Seeing businesses come and go is always a challenge, but Pendleton County remains committed to supporting economic development and workforce opportunities. The arrival of Paragon Metal Fabricators is a great win for our county, bringing back jobs and opening doors for even more employment. We look forward to the positive impact that this will have on our community, from job creation to increased economic activity.”
Pendleton County Economic & Tourism Development Director Tami Vater noted the positive momentum this investment will bring: “The transition from Hammer Strength to Paragon Metal Fabricators is a significant step forward for Pendleton County. This investment not only restores jobs but introduces new positions, reinforcing our county as a great place for business and industry. We are thrilled to see this facility continue to serve as an economic driver and provide meaningful jobs for our community.”