BC Premier David Eby toured the site of a new industrial operation in Maple Ridge on Wednesday morning, March 18, as the province announced almost $2 million in funding for Jewel Welding Fabrication and Coatings.
The manufacturer is being supported by the B.C. government to expand its production, create new products, and hire more people.
Eby said the company plays a key role in building the major projects needed to fuel economic growth throughout B.C.
“Our province has a vibrant manufacturing sector, and it’s vital that we work together to make sure B.C. products are used to build B.C. projects and create B.C. jobs,” said Eby.
“With billions of dollars of major private-sector and infrastructure projects coming today and in the next few years, we’re going to continue supporting manufacturers so they can grow, create good new jobs, and continue playing a key role in our economic future.”
Jewel specializes in large-diameter industrial pipe fabrication and coating for major water-service and hydroelectric infrastructure.
Matt Suddaby, the GM of Jewel, explained the site in Maple Ridge will fabricate, weld, and coat pipes for Metro Vancouver, municipal waterworks, BC Hydro, and other customers. From 60-70 staff he expects the company will ultimately double in size, employing welders, painters, sandblasters, administration staff, and other workers.
Jewel has operated in Maple Ridge since 2008, at an Albion site on Fisherman Road. Now it will move to the 4.4 acre site, with a building of close to 30,000 square feet under construction. Suddaby said there is also room for more expansion at the industrial park on 261 A Avenue.
“This is a great park – there is even more future growth than just this place for us,” he said. “That’s the goal.”
Increasing the company’s capacity will reduce its reliance on out-of-province suppliers, and support the growing demand for clean-energy components in British Columbia.
“We’re happy to announce that Jewel is growing with support from the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund and expanding into a new facility,” said Chris Nudd, president and CEO, Hazelwood Group of Companies, the majority owner of Jewel.
“This investment will play a key role in our development of advanced automation to improve safety for our people, and reduce our reliance on imported materials. Jewel takes pride in building infrastructure for Metro Vancouver and throughout B.C.”
The funding is supporting Jewel to take on larger and more complex projects in B.C.’s growing clean-energy sector.
“We’re pleased to see the province investing in a local Maple Ridge manufacturer through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund,” said Jerry Kok, president of the Ridge Meadows Chamber of Commerce, who joined the tour.
“Support for companies like Jewel reinforces confidence in the economic strength of our community. This investment not only enables the company to expand its operations, but it also contributes to the creation of high-quality jobs and economic growth for Maple Ridge.”