Update on the new aerospace and defense hub coming to the former Vindicator building
Four months ago, Governor Mike DeWine announced Ohio's Fourth Innovation Hub was coming to Youngstown, bringing with plans to create hundreds of jobs in the former Youngstown Vindicator building.
“Those range from entry level up to six figure type salaries. We’ve committed to producing $162 million of economic output,” said Alexander Steeb, operations director for the America Makes leadership team.
Those involved are hoping to have a signed contract with the state within a few weeks, but an opening date for the hub is not set.
The state is giving $26 million, and four years to America Makes and others involved to turn the building into the state's fourth Innovation Hub.
Additive manufacturing is a process commonly looked for by the Department of Defense. It adds layers to a block of material to make a 3D object.
The addition would massively expand the additive manufacturing already in the Valley. Currently America Makes does research in Youngstown, but has not been able to participate in the commercialization of that research with their current space.
The former Vindicator building is nearly the size of all of the other additive manufacturing facilities in downtown combined.
“We already have a great thing going on down here. We have an opportunity to scale it and scale it tremendously,” said Steeb.
This facility allows 3D manufacturing companies from Northeast Ohio and beyond, to set up shop. This means the space is open for companies on a local and international level.
America Makes and the partners involved committed to making 450 jobs, and $162 million in economic output.
“Where there used to be a newspaper printing line, we will put 3D printers essentially that will produce advanced manufacturing, advanced solutions for predominantly aerospace and defense industry,” said Steeb.
YSU is also partnering with the project, with hopes of offering careers to graduates and keeping them in the valley.
“They will drive quality control process, they will wire panels, they will be sales people, they will be in marketing, they will be in accounting. Basically, all those functions that a business needs to thrive, said Steeb.
Steeb said they our open to other 3D manufacturing, but are mostly looking for companies supplying parts and products to the aerospace and defense industry.
By the end of 2025, Steeb is hoping contracts will be signed with all parties involved, and the focus can shift to renovating the building and attracting businesses.