Medical equipment manufacturer Able Medical Devices to expand its footprint in the Upper Peninsula with the construction of a new facility

LANSING, Mich. -- Monday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced a business expansion project in the Upper Peninsula expected to create 40 new jobs and generate nearly $13 million in capital investment has received support from the Michigan Strategic Fund. The project is in Marquette.

Able Medical Devices, headquartered in Marquette, began operations in 2018 as a contract manufacturer of medical device implant and instruments. The company currently has manufacturing operations in Gwinn at KI Sawyer but has reached the facility’s capacity. As a result, it’s expanding its operations to accommodate its growth in the industry by constructing a new 30,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility. 

“Able Medical Devices’ investment and continued growth in the Marquette area is creating 40 more good-paying jobs, driving regional economic growth, and solidifying Michigan’s leadership in the medical devices industry,” said Governor Whitmer. “With our growing suite of economic development tools, we will continue to compete with other states and nations to bring jobs and projects to every part of Michigan. Let’s keep getting it done so we can build and lead an advanced manufacturing economy.” 

This expansion is expected to result in the creation of 40 new jobs in the region with an average wage of over $36 per hour plus benefits, a wage in which is 75% higher than the Regional Median Wage of $20.88. The company anticipates this expansion will result in nearly $13 million in capital investment with the support of a $500,000 Michigan Business Development Program grant. 

“Michigan continues to make its mark in the medical devices industry with today’s announcement and we applaud Able Medical Devices for their commitment to the Marquette area,” said Matt McCauley, SVP Regional Development. “Working with our local partners and businesses across the state helps continue our efforts to focus on people, places, and projects to ensure economic prosperity for all.” 

“This investment is a prime example of the exciting growth and sophistication of advanced manufacturing across the Upper Peninsula,” said Marty Fittante, CEO, Invest UP. “This expansion not only reinforces the reality that the region is well equipped to serve as a prime location for advanced manufacturing with a strong workforce, a vibrant local economy and a supportive environment, but it also aligns perfectly with our vision for a prosperous and dynamic community. We are excited about the additional employment opportunities and the positive impact that Able’s new facility will have on Marquette and the U.P., and thank Governor Whitmer, MEDC CEO Quentin Messer and his team for helping make this investment a reality.” 

Able’s investment advances the state’s life sciences and medical devices sector, a key industry that continues to be a significant contributor to the state’s overall economy. 

“I am pleased that Able Medical Devices has chosen to invest in their manufacturing operations in Marquette County,” said state Senator Ed McBroom (R-Vulcan). “I appreciate that the MEDC is supporting one of our U.P. companies.” 

"I’m thrilled to see this investment, which underscores our region’s potential as a hub for high-quality manufacturing jobs in Michigan’s medical device sector,” said state Representative Jenn Hill (D-Marquette). “Able Medical Devices is a leader in innovation and manufacturing. This investment is essential for creating opportunities for our residents and ensuring a strong future for our economy. I’m glad to support this effort and will continue advocating for more economic development in our region.” 

For career opportunities with Able, please click here. 

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.