Air curtain manufacturing plant set to double in New Castle, add 70 local jobs
Construction is set to begin this summer on the $15 million expansion project to boost production capacity by 150% at the Berner International manufacturing operation in New Castle.
The Berner manufacturing facility is set to double in size and bring 70 new, permanent job opportunities to western Pennsylvania residents, according to the company.
The Lawrence County-founded company is the leading manufacturer of air curtains in North America.
Air curtains are high-powered fans installed above doorways and entrances that stream high velocities of air down toward the door.
They’re designed to create an air seal, keeping desired air in and undesirable bugs and dust out throughout all seasons.
Mikael Berner is chairman of the board for Berner International, which was founded in 1956 in New Castle.
“Expanding our manufacturing capabilities in New Castle directly serves our customers’ needs,” Berner said. “This investment in advanced manufacturing ensures we can meet growing demand for our innovative, sustainable solutions while creating a stronger future for our customers, employees, and community.”
According to Berner, the expansion allows for more apprenticeship opportunities and a step up in automated manufacturing.
“Our growth is driven by our customers and our people,” Berner said. “We’re proud to bring stable, high-quality careers to Western Pennsylvania and to continue investing in the skilled talent and smart manufacturing systems that make Berner the industry leader.”
Berner executives hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the expansion on June 11 in New Castle with special guests like Rick Siger, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to support the expansion of a PA-based business that has called New Castle home for nearly 70 years,” Siger said. “This project is going to boost the economy in Lawrence County and bring more quality jobs to the area. We look forward to another 70 years of growth and success for Berner.”
