RESILIENCE ANNOUNCES EXPANSION AND CREATES NEW JOBS IN WEST CHESTER

Resilience US, Inc. (formerly AstraZeneca), announced that it expects to create 274 full-time positions, generating $15 million in new annual payroll and retaining $27.2 million in existing payroll, as a result of its expansion project in West Chester Township.

Resilience is a biomanufacturing company specializing in the production of novel medicine. The proposed project includes the renovation of their current facility to operate more effectively for increased production staff to further their goal of implementing efficient manufacturing processes and supply chain solutions to improve access to their pharmaceuticals and therapies.

In mid-December 2023, the Tax Incentive Authority approved a 1.9%, 10-year Job Creation Tax Credit for this project. The project will create 440 new jobs (274 direct hires, 166 contractor positions), retain 476 jobs, and include further development of Resilience’s West Chester biomanufacturing site. The types of new employment opportunities encompass a wide variety of roles including manufacturing, engineering, quality control, IT and management.

The project includes a nearly $229 million capital investment.

“The significant investment by Resilience in West Chester will be impactful and sets the foundation for continued growth and investment in the advanced manufacturing and medical research arenas,” said West Chester Township Administrator Larry D. Burks. “West Chester Township is proud to be home to more than 3,500 exceptional and diverse companies. Together they create a vast network benefitting from West Chester’s location, access, workforce and commitment to building a resilient local economy. Our residents and the world will benefit from the work of Resilience and West Chester is honored to be selected as the site for this investment.”

Resilience purchased its West Chester site in January 2023 from AstraZeneca and has secured manufacturing agreements with several new customers. To deliver on these contracts, while also preparing the facility to be commercially ready to deliver additional manufacturing services, significant capital investment and workforce recruitment is critical to its success. Resilience is committed to bringing further development to the State, modernizing the facility and growing its West Chester workforce. 

AstraZeneca, on Trade Port Drive in West Chester Township, sold the 580,000 square-foot manufacturing facility to Resilience in early 2023 for $212 million. Today, Resilience continues to produce the AstraZeneca drugs at the West Chester site as part of a multi-year supply agreement which included Resilience retaining existing employees. 

Katy Kanelopoulos, West Chester Township’s Economic Development Manager said, “I recently had the pleasure of meeting leadership while touring the Resilience plant and learning more about their vision. We are proud to be the home of such important and innovative work. West Chester has growing healthcare and manufacturing industries, proving us to be a top community for business in Ohio. We celebrate this expansion and wholeheartedly support their mission of growth.”

POLE/ZERO: More than 30 Years in West Chester and Still Growing

Before Union Centre Boulevard existed and exit #19 on I-75 became a reality for West Chester, Pole/Zero was already making a name for themselves. What started in 1989 with a forward-thinking father and son duo of electrical engineers out of a garage shop, set the foundation for what has evolved into a global company. Pole/Zero is a global leader in equipment that helps maintain the integrity of voice/data transmission and streamlines microwave signals - RF & Microwave Filters and Integrated Microwave Assemblies or IMA’s.

After moving the business to West Chester in 1992 and experiencing continued growth, the owners decided the best way forward was to partner with a larger organization. So after 18 years of successful business operations, Pole/Zero underwent a change in ownership in 2007 joining forces with several other RF and Microwave companies to land in Microwave Products Group as part of Dover Corporation’s Engineered Products segment. Dover Corporation (NYSE: DOV) is a diversified global manufacturer that delivers innovative equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts, software and digital solutions and support services.

Pole/Zero will celebrate 35 years in 2024 and now calls a 90,000-square-foot facility on Union Centre Drive home to its 200 employees.

The mission of Connecting and Protecting People® is not just a slogan for this West Chester based company; it’s deeply ingrained in the very roots – from the dedicated employees and valued suppliers, to esteemed customers, stakeholders, and the worldwide communities served, the mission is a guiding principle that shapes every aspect of operations. It goes well beyond any product that Pole/Zero offers; it is a commitment to fostering strong connections and ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved in the business ecosystem. Pole/Zero’s mission is a testament to enduring relationships that they build, the partnerships that they cherish, and the positive impact that they strive to make in the lives of those connecting to the organization.

The community mission extends into a commitment to social responsibility through philanthropic efforts, Pole/Zero actively engages in supporting many charities, focusing on local and veteran based charities. By aligning to the MPG values with initiatives that benefit the community and honor veterans, the West Chester site is dedicated to creating a positive impact. Through these philanthropic endeavors, Pole/Zero not only fosters a sense of connectivity within the community but also actively contributes to the protection and well-being of everyone involved. Some of the philanthropic efforts include: American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, March of Dimes, Hospice of Cincinnati, Hope’s Closet, ALS, Missions in Motion, Matthew 25 Ministries, Ronald McDonald House, Shared Harvest, Fisher House, Marines Toys for Tots, BCCS Adopt-A-Family.

Ron Ruppersburg, a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and West Chester resident, became Vice President and General Manager of Pole/Zero in 2018. As an instrumental figure in Pole/Zero’s success, Ron’s achievements and transformative leadership did not go unnoticed and his leadership duties quickly extended to additional MPG sites in the United States. When MPG’s incumbent President Dave Howett retired, Ron emerged as the natural choice for succession and in 2020 brought forth a new organizational mindset and vision that united previously independent operating locations into a cohesive whole.

Ruppersburg orchestrated this transformative shift by restructuring the independent operating company model to forge MPG as a global leader within its respective markets. His vision involved harnessing the expertise of employees at each facility, forming cohesive value streams marketed as four product lines, featuring six unique and identifiable brands.

Joining Pole/Zero is BSC Filters, a UK-based brand specializing in Filters and Solutions for the European markets, among others. Dow-Key Microwave of Ventura, California, boasts the title of oldest operating RF and Microwave Switch provider in the United States. Espy, the latest addition to the MPG brands with offices in Austin, Texas and Columbia, Maryland, is exclusively dedicated to the Spectrum Operations product line extending MPG’s capabilities into the realm of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML). K&L Microwave based in Salisbury, Maryland has been a trusted industry supplier for more than 50 years, and the oldest MPG brand owned by Dover Corporation.

Finally, as part of Ron’s strategy, a new brand emerged last November called MPG Solutions. This powerhouse brand is led by another West Chester resident, Matt Shelley, Vice President of MPG Solutions. This newer brand ingeniously integrates components from each of the flagship brands, forming more comprehensive customer solutions that embody the collective strength and expertise of the entire MPG brand portfolio.

What exactly are RF and Microwave Filters & IMA’s?

RF filters are like traffic directors for your wireless communication systems. Imagine your communication signals as congested traffic, and these filters act as navigators, helping ensure that only the desired signals get through while minimizing interference or unwanted signals. Just as a traffic patrol officer would manage the flow of vehicles on a road, Pole/Zero’s RF Filters guide the precise flow of signals on larger-scale platforms like ships, aircraft, and space-based applications. The equipment works in conjunction with communication systems and are paramount in eliminating noise and maintaining the integrity of voice/data transmission, contributing to the seamless and reliable operations that make a mission successful.

Integrated Microwave Assemblies are like power-packed, all-in-one solutions for handling and managing microwave signals. Think of IMA’s as toolkits that combine various components, such as filters, amplifiers, and other essential elements, into a single compact unit.  These assemblies are designed to efficiently process and manipulate microwave signals, making them convenient and effective for a wide range of applications, from communication systems to electronic devices. So, instead of dealing with individual components, an IMA brings everything together, streamlining the handling of microwave signals in a more efficient and compact manner.

The Culture | A Commitment to Excellence

Working at the West Chester company isn’t just a job; it’s an immersive experience in a vibrant learning culture and an overwhelming sense of camaraderie. The Pole/Zero leadership team focuses on and fosters an environment where curiosity is celebrated, and continuous improvement is not just encouraged but deeply embedded in the fabric of daily operations. Employees find themselves surrounded by teams of dedicated experts who are not just colleagues but collaborators on a shared journey of growth and innovation. The open and supportive atmosphere ensures every individual feels valued, their ideas heard, and their potential recognized. This sense of camaraderie extends beyond the desks, creating a community that thrives on shared successes, fostering both personal and professional development for everyone at Pole/Zero.

Beyond the professional growth, employees appreciate a deeply meaningful environment, while crafting top-quality products takes on a special significance as it forms an emotional connection. Knowing that, at the end of the day, their daily projects directly contribute to getting operators and users connected and protected when it matters the most, adds a profound sense of fulfillment. It’s more than just a job; it’s a commitment to excellence that goes past the workspace, fostering a genuine connection to the significance of the work they do, in the lives of those they serve.

Pole/Zero is actively recruiting for multiple positions and invites individuals with a passion for excellence to explore exciting career opportunities within the organization. As the company continues to expand and innovate, it values the contributions of skilled professionals who share a commitment to delivering top-notch performance. Anyone interested in joining a dynamic and collaborative work environment can explore the various positions currently available. To view the current job openings and embark on a rewarding career journey with Pole/Zero visit https://www.mpgdover.com/en/company/corporate-information/careers.html and choose location: West Chester, OH.

UC HEALTH/WEST CHESTER HOSPITAL EARNS NATIONAL QUALITY RECOGNITION FOR HEART FAILURE CARE

UC Health’s University of Cincinnati Medical Center and West Chester Hospital have once again been recognized by the American Heart Association for their commitment to prioritizing superior cardiac care for heart failure patients with the Heart Failure Gold Plus Award.

UC Medical Center received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® 2023 Heart Failure Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award with Target: Heart Failure Honor Roll and Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll. 

West Chester Hospital received the 2023 Heart Failure Gold Quality Achievement Award with Target: Heart Failure Honor Roll and Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll.

 

“At UC Health, we are committed to delivering state-of-the-art cardiac care to our patients who suffer from heart failure,” said Charles Hattemer, MD, chief of the Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease and professor of clinical medicine at the UC College of Medicine. “Our team brings intense focus to provide advanced heart care to save more lives in emergencies, and to enable all of our patients to live longer and healthier lives.”

Hospitals included on the Heart Failure Honor Roll meet specific criteria that improve medication adherence, provide early follow-up care and coordination, and enhance patient education. The goal is to further reduce hospital re-admissions and help patients improve their quality of life in managing this chronic condition.

Hospitals who are included on the Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll are ensuring patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to heart disease or stroke. 

Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke or heart attack, and heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 5 causes of death in the United States, respectively. Studies show patients can recover better when providers consistently follow treatment guidelines.

More than 6.2 million adults in the U.S. live with heart failure. Many heart failure patients can lead a full, enjoyable life when their condition is managed with proper medications or devices and with healthy lifestyle changes.

This recognition identifies UC Health’s commitment to ensuring heart failure patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines founded in the latest scientific evidence. The goal is to implement a higher standard of care that speeds recovery and reduces hospital re-admissions for heart failure patients. 

UC Health is the region’s first and most experienced adult heart transplant program in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky and has established a reputation for delivering innovative and compassionate heart care for 200 years – from coronary artery disease to advanced heart failure.

UC Health’s Heart Care Program has achieved several recent milestones, including ranking in the top 10 percent nationwide for patient outcomes in adult heart transplants, pioneering the endoscopic triple valve procedure in the United States, and being named one of the nation's Top 100 Hospitals and Health Systems with Great Heart Programs by Becker’s Hospital Review.

Serving more than 3,000 patients annually at the Advanced Heart Failure Treatment Center and showcasing a rapidly growing structural heart program, UC Health's Heart Care program continues to lead through innovative research, the implementation of state-of-the-art mechanical assist devices, and advancements in cardiac surgery.

INTRODUCING CINCYLINK: THE EXPRESS BUS BETWEEN BUTLER COUNTY AND CINCINNATI

Butler County Regional Transit Authority is thrilled to announce the launch of a new service called CincyLink, which started January 2, 2024. CincyLink is an exciting new commuter route connecting Butler County residents to Downtown Cincinnati.  It's more than just a ride; it's a promise to enhance the commuting experience.

Key Highlights of CincyLink:

1. Free Rides for the Entire Month of January: To kick start the year, CincyLink will be operating for FREE during the entire month of January. Take advantage of this amazing offer and ride at no cost!

2. Affordable Fare Structure: Starting in February, CincyLink will offer a convenient and affordable fare structure:

• Single Tickets: $5.00
• Unlimited Monthly Passes: $120.00

3. Fare Capping - Never Pay More Than a Discounted Monthly Pass: BCRTA is introducing a groundbreaking feature called "Fare Capping." With Fare Capping, riders will never pay more than the cost of a discounted monthly pass. This feature is tracked through the EzFare app or with an EzFare smart card, making the journey even more cost effective.

4. Information and Ambassadors in December: In preparation for the launch of CincyLink, Butler County RTA ambassadors were out and about in December, distributing essential information. Look forward to learning more about:

• The Guaranteed Ride Home Program
• Fare Capping
• Route Schedules
• Loads of Exciting Swag!

CincyLink is here to redefine the commuting experience and make your journey even more enjoyable. BCRTA can't wait to welcome you aboard this exciting new chapter in public transportation. For additional details, updates, and helpful resources, visit www.cincylinkbus.com or www.butlercountyrta.com/.

QUARTERLY COLUMN: KEEPING UP WITH KATY K

The following article, "Keeping up with Katy K," was written before the passing of our tremendous friend and department leader, Aaron Wiegand. Aaron was an inspiration to us and, indeed, the heart of our department. To say he will be missed is a great understatement. I encourage you to read more about his impact on our community and his love for life here:

https://www.westchesteroh.org/Home/Components/News/News/3917/16

I have been named interim department director and plan to continue Aaron's legacy of excellence as best I can, although I can never be him. Thanks for everything, Aaron. We are all better for knowing you. #ChiefStrong

New! New! New!

Happy New Year, West Chester! It's a new year with a new honor and a new easy-to-navigate zoning permit process. It always feels great to start fresh with a new year, but let's look back at the last quarter because some great things happened while you were eating fruitcake.

Ohio Business Magazine named West Chester "Best Community to do Business" in all of Ohio for the fourth year in a row! I don't know if anyone is keeping statistical records of this, but I feel confident that this has to be some sort of record. West Chester is humbled by this continued recognition, which brings us to our 2024 New Year's resolution- to persist with excellence and win a fifth straight title. Many thanks to our business community for voting us the best. We do not take the honor lightly.

West Chester made the move to an online zoning permit process! That's right, ladies and gentlemen, no more riding your dogsled through the snow in January to our office with your eight sets of plans rolled up under your arm. Project plans can now be submitted from the warmth of your home in your pajama pants. Progress is a wonderful thing. www.WestChesterOH.org/Permits

In other news, I made my NPR debut. Our previous quarterly newsletter featured a story about the Aerospace Industry in West Chester written by the unmatched Vicki Eldridge. The article sparked quite the buzz, and WYSO reached out for an interview. You can listen here:

https://www.wyso.org/business-economy-news/2023-10-25/west-chester-township-aerospace-hub-in-miami-valley.  

This quarter's resource to know is Tech Cred. Tech Cred is a State of Ohio reimbursable grant program for training. TechCred helps Ohioans learn new skills and helps employers build a stronger workforce with the skills needed in a technology-infused economy. Many of these trainings can be completed online. These technology-focused credentials take a year or less to complete and prepare current and future employees for the technology jobs Ohio employers need. To see if this grant program can help you upskill, visit https://techcred.ohio.gov/about.

I'm looking for new friends this new year, so follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WestChesterEconomicDevelopment/. Or drop me a line at kkanelopoulos@westchesteroh.org. I'd love to hear what is new in your life.

West Chester, Ohio, where families grow, businesses prosper, and all the permitting is online.