ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Mich. – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced expansion projects that will bring new jobs to the state, with 55 of them coming to Southeast Michigan.

The projects will happen in Southeast and Northwest Michigan.

“Today, I’m excited to announce two Michigan companies are expanding operations in our state, building on our work to grow Michigan’s economy by creating 70 good-paying jobs in St. Clair and Emmet Counties,” said Whitmer. “Since taking office, I’ve been committed to making sure that anyone can make it in Michigan. That’s why I’ll work with anyone to keep helping companies invest and grow right here in Michigan. Together, let’s keep leading the future of manufacturing by bringing jobs and supply chains home.”

Flash Steelworks is a steel manufacturer that patented a heat treatment for steel that uses renewable power sources to create Flash Bainite, a low-cost steel, according to a release from Whitmer’s office.

The company is expanding to produce “the world’s highest-performing armor plate” for the U.S. Army. The expansion will bring 55 new jobs to St. Clair County with the support of a $750,000 grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund. The average wage will be $32.82.

“Founded 20 years ago in the Arsenal of Innovation, with a keen focus to protect Democracy, Flash Steelworks creates steel that is stronger than titanium, lighter than aluminum, and is able to stop speeding bullets at record-setting velocity,” said Gary Cola, CTO & Founder of Flash Steelworks. “We are excited to continue working with the MEDC to advance Flash Technology research and full-scale production in St Clair County. While creating good paying skilled jobs, Flash Steel will better protect those in harm’s way, be it in an automobile or armored carrier.”

This is expected to generate a capital investment of about $9 million.

Flash Steelworks is also getting Phase Three Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants from the Department of Energy and Department of Defense for this expansion, building on Michigan’s position as a leader in the defense sector.

Whitmer also announced that Aster Brands, which focuses on producing steel forming systems for concrete product manufacturing, will put their new headquarters in Little Traverse Township. This is expected to bring 15 new jobs to Emmet County. For more information about Aster Brands, visit here.