Bland County steel manufacturer to expand operations, create 52 jobs

Virginia Steel and Fabrication plans to invest $3.6 million to expand its operations in Bland County and create 52 jobs, the governor’s office announced Wednesday.

The investment is set to triple the company’s workforce of 19 employees and includes upgrading and fully automating key manufacturing equipment, as well as expanding the company’s existing facility to increase production capacity in response to growing market demand. The company, founded in 1994, provides custom steel fabrication, welding and steel purchasing services for commercial and industrial construction projects across Southwest Virginia.

“By making new investments in advanced manufacturing technology and more than tripling its workforce, Virginia Steel is demonstrating that innovation and job creation go hand in hand,” Gov. Abigail Spanberger said in a statement. “This expansion strengthens a homegrown Virginia business, creates new opportunities for Southwest Virginia and reinforces the commonwealth’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing.”

It was not clear how much square footage, if any, would be added as part of the expansion or when the project is expected to be completed. Virginia Steel did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

“This investment is first and foremost an investment in the people of Southwest Virginia,” Virginia Steel Directors Shaun Huffman and Blake Ray said in a joint statement. “We are creating careers that provide long-term opportunities, advanced technical skills and a future for families right here at home while working alongside our educational, community and state partners to strengthen the region’s manufacturing workforce.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership partnered with Bland County, the Mount Rogers Regional Partnership and the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission to secure the project for the state. Spanberger approved a $200,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist the county with the expansion, while the Virginia Jobs Investment Program will provide funding and services to support employee training.