Joplin Eagle Picher announces $20.9 million expansion will create 100 new jobs
Joplin, Mo. — EaglePicher Technologies, a leader in defense and aerospace manufacturing, announced today that it will expand in Joplin, investing $20.9 million and creating 100 new jobs. The company broke ground today on a new energetics facility and administration building at its existing Joplin headquarters location.
“Major expansions from industry leaders like EaglePicher Technologies continue to prove Missouri’s status as a top business destination,” said Governor Mike Parson. “This company’s decision to build state-of-the-art facilities in Joplin further demonstrates our ability to support employers through superior infrastructure and a skilled workforce. We’re pleased to see EaglePicher Technologies strengthening our defense and aviation sectors with such a significant investment.”
EaglePicher Technologies’ new manufacturing facility will feature state-of-the-art advancements in manufacturing technology with semi-automatic capabilities. Advanced software for data retrieval and tracking will be housed at the facility. The U.S. owned company is known for its battery technology, energetic devices, and battery management systems. EaglePicher Technologies experienced an influx in battery production after launching a battery into space aboard NASA’s Explorer 1 satellite in 1958.
“This investment will position EaglePicher’s energetics business for significant growth, while strengthening our ability to respond to current demands in a premier defense and aerospace manufacturing facility,” said Matt Housh, General Manager of EaglePicher’s Energetics Business Unit.
EaglePicher Technologies, headquartered in Joplin, has more than 700 total employees with 600 employed at its Joplin location. New jobs added as part of EaglePicher Technologies’ expansion will pay an average wage well above the county average.
“Today’s announcement from EaglePicher Technologies is an exciting example of putting our mission of helping Missourians prosper into action,” said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Department of Economic Development. “This innovative company’s ongoing commitment to southwest Missouri is providing new investment, creating quality jobs, and supporting industries vital to a secure and prosperous future.”
For this expansion, EaglePicher Technologies will benefit from the Missouri Works program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation. The company may receive assistance from Missouri One Start, a division of the Department of Economic Development. Missouri One Start assists eligible businesses with their recruitment and training needs.
“This is truly a landmark development for the City of Joplin,” said Travis Stephens, President and CEO of the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. “The wage levels and number of jobs that will follow are significant and the appreciation of the leadership of Steve Westfall and the Tuthill family, and their vision for EaglePicher, cannot be understated. We are grateful for their confidence in the workforce and the supportive community to locate this unique facility in Joplin.”
“EaglePicher Technologies continues to demonstrate its commitment to the MOKAN region with this significant investment in our community,” said Amy Kauffman, Workforce and Business Expansion Director of the MOKAN Partnership. “The company’s expansion not only strengthens our local economy but also brings high-quality, well-paying jobs to our residents. We are proud to have EaglePicher as a valued partner in advancing our region’s growth and innovation, and we look forward to its continued success here.”