Category Archives: Business News

Worksighted, a Michigan-based managed IT services provider, has earned its eighth consecutive ranking on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies.  The Inc. 5000 list ranks companies by overall revenue growth over a three-year period. This year, Worksighted is listed as 3,615.

“Making this list for 8 years in a row has not been an easy feat,”said Mike Harris, CEO of Worksighted. “I’m proud of our team and the hurdles we’ve overcome in the last year, but I’m even more excited to see what they can accomplish going forward.”

Founded in Holland, Worksighted has an additional office in Wixom, and continues to invest in communities throughout West Michigan and metro-Detroit.

“While our ranking on the list changes from year to year, one thing that remains constant is our obsession with helping our clients understand how digital transformation affects their business, and working alongside their team to navigate these changes smoothly.”

To celebrate being on the list for 8 years, Worksighted is giving away 8 items over 8 days on their Instagram. Giveaways include items ranging from a Worksighted Yeti Tumbler to an Amazon FireTV Cube. For a chance to win, navigate to instagram.com/worksighted.

Worksighted was also recently recognized as one of West Michigan’s “Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” for the eighth consecutive year.

The peer-review award, which designates legal excellence in specific practice areas, individually recognized:

• Robert A. Dubault, employment law, labor law
• Paul R. Jackson, tax law
• Brian T. Lang, commercial litigation

The three Muskegon partners are among a total of 103 Warner attorneys, representing more than 55 different practice areas, to be included in the 2020 list.

About Warner

By providing discerning and proactive legal advice, Warner Norcross + Judd builds a better partnership with its clients. Warner is a corporate law firm with 230 attorneys practicing in eight offices throughout Michigan: Grand Rapids, Southfield, Midland, Macomb County, Kalamazoo, Muskegon, Lansing and Holland. To learn more, visit www.wnj.com, follow us on Twitter @WNJLLP or connect on LinkedIn.

Rehmann has been named one of the world’s premier managed service providers (MSPs), according to Channel Futures’ 12th annual MSP 501 rankings. Rehmann (previously listed as Trivalent Group) ranked among the top 100 global MSPs for the ninth consecutive year.

Every year, managed service providers worldwide complete an extensive survey and application to report their product offerings, growth rates, annual total and recurring revenues, pricing structures, revenue mix and more.

“Rehmann is honored to be recognized as a top 100 MSP on this esteemed list of MSPs for the ninth consecutive year,” said Larry R. Andrus, Rehmann’s president of technology solutions. “Being one of only three companies in the world to be named both a top 100 MSP and top 100 managed security services provider (MSSP Alert) reflects our relentless dedication to continuously safeguarding our clients’ data and infrastructure.”

In the 12 years since its inception, the MSP 501 has evolved from a competitive ranking list into a vibrant group of service providers, vendors, distributors, consultants and industry analysts working together to define the growing managed service opportunity.

“The 2019 MSP 501 winners are the most elite, innovative and strategic IT service providers on the planet, and they stand as a model of excellence in the industry,” says Kris Blackmon, Content Director of Channel Partners and Channel Futures and lead of the MSP 501 program. “Our heartfelt congratulations to the 2019 winners and gratitude to the thousands of MSPs that have contributed to the continuing growth and success of both the 501 and the thriving managed services sector.”

Ten special award winners will be recognized at the MSP 501 Awards Gala at Channel Partners Evolution, held September 9-12, 2019 in Washington, D.C.

The complete 2019 MSP 501 list is available at Channel Futures.

Background

The 2019 MSP 501 list is based on data collected by Channel Futures and its sister site, Channel Partners. Data was collected online from March 1 through May 31, 2019. The MSP 501 list recognizes top managed service providers based on metrics including recurring revenue, growth and other factors.

About Rehmann

Rehmann is a fully integrated financial services and advisory firm that provides accounting and assurance, comprehensive technology, accounting and human resource solutions, specialized consulting and wealth management services. For more than 75 years, Rehmann has provided forward-thinking solutions, making it our duty to anticipate our clients’ daily and future needs. Rehmann has nearly 900 associates in Michigan, Ohio and Florida. Rehmann is an independent member of Nexia International, offering clients a global approach. Find us online at rehmann.com.

About Informa Tech

Channel Futures, Channel Partners Online, Channel Partners Conference & Expo and Channel Partners Evolution are part of Informa Tech, a market-leading B2B information provider with depth and specialization in the Information and Communications (ICT) Technology sector. We help drive the future by inspiring the Technology community to design, build and run a better digital world through our market-leading research, media, training and event brands. Every year, we welcome 7,400+ subscribers to our research, more than 3.8 million unique visitors a month to our digital communities, 18,200+ students to our training programs and 225,000 delegates to our events.

Dynamic Conveyor Sales Manager to support growing sales of DynaCon and DynaClean Conveying Systems

Dynamic Conveyor Corporation announced that John Stong has been hired as Sales Manager to support the growing company.  John’s experience and background includes several years of sales leadership in the industrial machine manufacturing industry.  John will focus on leading the Dynamic Conveyor sales team in providing conveyor solutions based on the unique needs of customers in the plastic parts manufacturing, food processing and packaging industries.

The DynaCon® conveyor systems offer parts manufacturers and packagers the ability to build their own conveyors using modules (like Lego® building blocks) to configure and later reconfigure their conveyor layouts. Modules are built using plastic injection molded parts, which bring strength and durability to the conveyor system, while remaining light-weight enough to be easily reconfigured. Reconfiguration of DynaCon conveyors offers an eco-friendly and sustainable solution.

The DynaClean® line of conveyors was introduced to food processors and packagers in 2011 as a cost saving alternative to traditional conveyors. DynaClean conveyors offer a patented design that is simple, quick and easy to disassemble and clean. There are no tools needed, no small parts to lose, and no nooks and crannies to clean. DynaClean conveyors have a very open design with no place for food or bacteria to hide and are much easier to clean than traditional food processing conveyors. DynaClean conveyors are known in the food processing and packaging industry for reducing cleaning times in half.

Based in Norton Shores, Michigan, Dynamic Conveyor is a privately held women owned company that has been offering innovative conveyor solutions to industry since 1991.  For more information on Dynamic Conveyor, visit www.DynamicConveyor.com or call 231.798.1483.

Expansion of chemical manufacturing site in Muskegon expected to generate $15 million in investment, create 40 high-tech jobs ● Community revitalization projects in downtown Paw Paw and Sault Ste. Marie will revitalize underutilized spaces

LANSING, Mich. – Three projects expected to generate a total investment of nearly $16 million and create 40 full-time jobs in Michigan have received support from the Michigan Strategic Fund, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced today.

“These projects will lead to new business growth, revitalized communities and more and better jobs for our residents. We’re pleased to work with our local partners and support these investments,” said Jeff Mason, CEO, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the state’s chief marketing and business attraction arm that administers programs and performs due diligence on behalf of the MSF.

“The decision by American Chemical Solutions to expand in Michigan rather than in another state means good jobs for our residents and demonstrates the strength of our state’s manufacturing talent pool,” Mason said.

American Chemical Solutions (ACS) is a new company that recently acquired idled chemical manufacturing assets in Muskegon, Michigan. The site, which previously manufactured functional dyes for use in thermal and carbonless printing applications, was slated to be dismantled prior to ACS’s acquisition. ACS will resume functional dye manufacturing, as well as provide custom and contract manufacturing services on the more than 20-acre site. The company anticipates creating nearly 40 new full-time jobs and investing over $15 million into the facility, resulting in a $200,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. ACS is led by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Todd Zahn, a Michigan resident who brings decades of experience and expertise in the chemical manufacturing industry to the role. Individuals interested in careers with American Chemical should visit www.americanchemicalsolutions.com .

“ACS is proud to partner with the state of Michigan and officials from the city of Muskegon to restart an idled manufacturing facility here and create dozens of new jobs,” said Dr. Todd Zahn, chief executive officer of ACS. “We see a unique opportunity to create a strong, vibrant manufacturing business, one that will meet the needs of our customers around the world while helping to spur our city’s ongoing renaissance. We are thankful for the continued support from both the community and the state, which is integral to a successful launch and to the bright future we hope to create here in Muskegon, Michigan.”

“This is exciting news for our community,” said State Representative Terry Sabo. “High-tech manufacturing jobs are the future of Muskegon and Michigan’s economy, and this grant will allow American Chemical Solutions to provide opportunities for many hardworking families in the area to earn a decent living.”

“Today’s announcement is extremely exciting as it will not only revive a dormant chemical manufacturing facility that would have otherwise been demolished but will also bring significant investment and high-quality jobs to Muskegon County,” said Daryl Todd, director of Talent Initiatives. “The confidence American Chemical Solutions’ placed in our community demonstrates the depth of manufacturing talent we have as well as the strength of the business-friendly environment we’ve created to attract new businesses. We congratulate American Chemical Solutions, welcome them to Muskegon County, and look forward to their growth.”

The city of Sault Ste. Marie has been awarded $484,231 in Community Development Block Grant funds for the Sault Ste. Marie Rental Rehab project in downtown Sault Ste. Marie. The project will activate new residential space in the existing building by creating six apartments on the currently vacant and uninhabitable second floor. The project will activate 6,720 square feet of residential space, with a focus on preserving historic and original features. The project will include the eligible activities of interior demolition, construction of new interior walls, plumbing and mechanical upgrades to service the residential apartments. Installation of fixtures, appliances, cabinetry, drywall, flooring and painting will also be completed. The project will bring much-needed residential space to downtown Sault Ste. Marie, where the current supply is not enough to meet demand. Four of these apartments will be affordable and occupied by low to moderate income households. The project is expected to result in a total private investment of $323,454, and local support for the project includes the anticipated contribution of $7,625 by the city of Sault Ste. Marie.

The village of Paw Paw has been awarded $607,383 in Community Development Block Grant funds for the 210 East Michigan project in downtown Paw Paw. 210 East, LLC plans to renovate a vacant, three-story historic building into a mixed-use project that will include 9,000 square feet of commercial space and four two-bedroom apartments. The project will address the blighted conditions, while matching funds will be used for architectural and engineering, lead, and asbestos assessments and abatement and demolition. The building has been sitting vacant for many years with a failing roof and significant blight, and the CDBG funds will help make a holistic and historically appropriate renovation financially feasible. The project is expected to result in a total private investment of $668,893 which includes Van Buren County awarding Community Development Block Grant Revolving Loan Funds of $86,000.

The village of Paw Paw is anticipated to support the project through its Downtown Development Authority, which will sell the property to the developer for $55,450. Additionally, the village of Paw Paw plans to expedite the issuance of permits and approvals necessary for the project.

MUSKEGON, MI – The Port of Muskegon has the capacity to increase shipping and could see that boost if it is able to find a competitive edge in attracting international ships to the shores of Muskegon Lake.

Over the past 20 years, the port welcomed just one international vessel on average annually, but it can handle more, said Chuck Canestraight, president of Port City Marine Services.

“We’re a fully functional deep-water port and we’re open for business,” he said.

The port, through Mart Dock, received a single international shipment of 18,500 metric tons of magnetite in 2018. It came through the St. Lawrence Seaway from Sweden on the Osogovo freighter.

To continue reading, visit MLive.

TROY, Mich., June 11, 2019 – Rehmann announced today that CRN_®, a brand of The Channel Company, has named the Firm to its 2019 Solution Provider 500 list. This is the ninth year in a row the Firm has received this recognition (previously listed as Trivalent Group).

The Solution Provider 500 features those IT companies in North America that have earned the highest revenue during the past year. Those who make the list are considered the highest performing technology integrators, strategic service providers and IT consultants.

“We are honored to be named to CRN’s distinguished list of solution providers,” said Larry R. Andrus, Rehmann’s president of technology solutions. “As we remain committed to delivering innovative solutions to our clients, we are excited to be recognized among such an elite group.”

Backed by experienced engineers, technicians and consultants, Rehmann provides managed services and other IT solutions to more than 700 clients.

“The companies on this year’s list represent an incredible combined revenue of $320 billion, a sum that attests to their success in staying ahead of rapidly changing market demands,” said Bob Skelley, CEO of The Channel Company. “Congratulations to the solution provider organizations leading the way in digital transformation and the latest technology services.”

The complete 2019 Solution Provider 500 list is available online at www.CRN.com/SP500.

About Rehmann

Rehmann is a fully integrated financial services and advisory firm that provides accounting and assurance, comprehensive technology, accounting and human resource solutions, specialized consulting and wealth management services. For more than 75 years, Rehmann has provided forward-thinking solutions, making it our duty to anticipate our clients’ daily and future needs. Rehmann has nearly 900 associates in Michigan, Ohio and Florida. Rehmann is an independent member of Nexia International, offering clients a global approach. Find us online at ehmann.com.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com

NORTON SHORES, MI  — A 52,000 square-foot manufacturing and engineering facility is scheduled to open in Norton Shores in early 2020. A collaboration between Grand Haven-based Westwind and UK-based Renishaw, a global engineering technologies company, is making this state-of-the-art facility a reality.

Renishaw Metrology Fixturing Solutions of Grand Haven, part of the Renishaw Group since 2012, will move into the completed facility. Located at the corner of Grand Haven Road and Devin Drive, the new facility will set the standard for local manufacturing as a highly energy-efficient, brightly lit, thoughtfully detailed workplace, full of the latest technology in indoor air management, power distribution, as well as a 150KW solar array as part of Renishaw’s global commitment to environmental responsibility. The facility will also feature staff dining, an outdoor patio area, and on-site water features to further enhance the working environment.

“This is a major investment in Western Michigan and the only Renishaw R&D and manufacturing facility in the US. Supporting both our current technology roadmap and future advanced engineering, this exceptional new facility will continue the high standard for Renishaw manufacturing,” said Drew Baker, General Manager for Renishaw Metrology Fixturing Solutions.

Renishaw will be expanding their team when they take up residence in the new facility, and the expansive facility allows room for the entire operation to double in the future, thus bringing more jobs to the Norton Shores area.

“We are very excited to showcase this exceptional project, born of collaboration between the teams at Renishaw, Bergmann, and Westwind, to produce such a high-functioning facility. The impact of our combined input has delivered an engineering and manufacturing space that is sure to set the standard,” said Mark Bonser, Senior Project Manager for Westwind.

A groundbreaking is planned for Tuesday, May 21 from 9-11am. The event will take place at 5500 Grand Haven Road in Norton Shores. The public is welcome to attend.

For more information, contact Mark Bonser, Westwind, at 616-607-2078 or mbonser@westwind.build.

From left to right: Alex Scripture, Joe Burmeister, and Mark Gutierrez

Goodwill hosted its ninth annual Achievers of the Year Awards Luncheon on May 8 at the Trillium Event Center in Spring Lake.

Alex Scripture, Joe Burmeister and Mark Gutierrez were honored for their outstanding accomplishments in 2018.

Employer Partner of the Year awards went to Seaver Finishing, Dutch Treat Foods and

Industrial Metal Cleaning Corporation.

Haven Innovation was named Contract Partner of the Year, and Muskegon Community Police Officers Armando Alamillo and Steven Clark were recognized as Volunteers of the Year. Thank you to everyone who came to support and celebrate! Please enjoy our photos and the video presentation from this year’s event below.View the photo album

Fremont, Michigan – Summer Thompson, E&M Design Solutions, Fremont MI, was recently named to the National Small Business Association (NSBA) Leadership Council. NSBA is the nation’s oldest small-business advocacy organization and operates on a staunchly nonpartisan basis. Thompson, a recognized leader in the small-business community, joins the NSBA Leadership Council alongside other small-business advocates from across the country as they work to promote the interests of small business to policymakers in Washington, D.C.

“As a small-business manager, I see daily the importance of being involved and active when it comes to laws and regulations,” stated Thompson. “Joining NSBA’s Leadership Council will enable me to take our collective small-business message to the people that need to hear it most: Congress.”

Summer Thompson, Manager – Business Process and Project Manager for E&M Design Solutions, has a comprehensive background in business and project management within a manufacturing setting. Her role in the company involves Departmental Management Systems, training, end to end project management, internal auditing, audit preparation, and industrial services systems/compliance.  She has a passion for the success of small business and looks forward to the opportunity to advocate where it really matters most, our leaders.

Thompson joined the NSBA Leadership Council as part of her efforts to tackle the many critical issues facing small business, including tax reform, regulatory restraint, health care costs and how the Affordable Care Act will impact small business. The NSBA Leadership Council is focused on providing valuable networking between small-business advocates from across the country while ensuring small business a seat at the table as Congress and regulators take up key small-business proposals.

“I am proud to have Summer Thompson as part of our Leadership Council,” stated NSBA President and CEO Todd McCracken. “She came to us highly recommended and I look forward to our coordinated efforts for years to come.”

Please click here to learn more about E&M Design Solutions.

For more on the NSBA Leadership Council, please visit www.nsba.biz

E&M Design Solutions is 100% women owned and operated firm providing quality, leadership and engineering trainings, quality management systems development/maintenance, ISO internal auditing and small business consultancy services.  They are a proud WBE certified business, most recently became active in federal contracting, and are pursuing WOSB certification.  This small firm had its start in 2009, during the recession, and continues to enjoy a familial like atmosphere within its team members.