Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted new economic growth coming to Adair County as Phillips Tank & Structure, a nationwide tank construction contractor, announced plans to build a $2.76 million fabrication shop that will create 20 new full-time jobs in the Columbia area.
“Phillips Tank & Structure is a great example of the quality companies that are choosing Kentucky to locate their businesses,” said Gov. Beshear. “Our economy is thriving, and PTS is a valued addition to that momentum. I want to congratulate the company on its new fabrication facility in Adair County and thank its leadership for choosing to invest in the commonwealth and our incredible workforce.”
PTS is acquiring 6 acres owned by the Adair County Economic Development on Development Drive in Columbia, a property previously approved for $460,000 in state support in the first round of the Kentucky Product Development Initiative. The project will include a 15,000-square-foot fabrication shop, a 5,000-square-foot tool house/garage and 5,000 square feet of office space. The project will also include the acquisition of various construction and fabrication shop equipment. PTS and wholly owned subsidiary Steel Valley Fabricators (SVF) will share the space and work together to service their different markets in the region. Construction is expected to begin in March 2024 and be completed by December 2024.
“We have been searching for suitable locations to expand our branch offices,” said PTS Vice President Jeff Sassic. “The available state and county incentives made Adair County, Kentucky, a very attractive option that was difficult to pass up. The Adair County Economic Development representatives were wonderful to deal with and made the process as easy as possible. We are excited to join the Adair County community. We look forward to contributing to the growth and development of the local economy.”
Conway-Phillips Holding LLC, doing business as Phillips Tank & Structure (PTS), is a nationwide contractor engaged in engineering, designing, repairing and constructing above-ground storage tanks in the petroleum, chemical, agricultural, U.S. defense and other industries. PTS has been in business since November 2012 and has grown into a nationally recognized tank contractor with over 16 field crews and 150 employees. PTS is headquartered in Braddock, Pennsylvania, with branch offices in Texas, California and Hawaii.
Steel Valley Fabricators LLC (SVF) is a regional full-service welding and metal fabricating shop that provides custom parts and weldments for customers in various industries. SVF is a wholly owned subsidiary of PTS and was established in November 2019. SVF is also headquartered in Braddock, Pennsylvania, with a branch office in California. SVF employs 38 workers between the two locations.
Adair County Judge/Executive Larry Russell Bryant showed his excitement for the project and spoke on the job opportunities PTS will provide: “I am so very pleased that Phillips Tank & Structure has selected Adair County as the home for their regional hub and will help continue the momentum of economic growth in Green River Commerce Park. PTS will not only be a great addition to the Commerce Park; but they will also provide an excellent workforce pathway to the students who participate specifically in our welding program at Adair County High School. Along with the Adair County Fiscal Court, the Columbia City Council and the Economic Development Authority, Phillips Tank & Structure will be an instrumental partner in making dreams for our Commerce Park become a reality.”
Columbia Mayor Pamela Hoots talked about future growth for Columbia: “On behalf of our entire EDA team, we are excited that Phillips Tank & Structure has chosen to locate in Columbia, Kentucky. PTS’s $2.76 million investment and creation of 20 well-paying jobs furthers the momentum of recent announcements in Green River Commerce Park. As their company grows, we are happy that they have chosen to grow with us!”
Columbia-Adair County Economic Development Authority Chairman Larry Walker thanked the partners that made the project possible: “The City of Columbia is excited to welcome Phillips Tank & Structure to our community. We appreciate the work of the EDA Board in administration of this project.”