In conjunction with the Economic Development Coalition for Asheville-Buncombe County (EDC), Mills Manufacturing Corporation today announced plans to create 30 full-time positions in production, assembly and inspection. The firm was recently awarded a contract with the US Army for the manufacture of 2,750 G-12E Cargo Parachute Assemblies. The G-12E is used to drop equipment and supplies and boasts a 64-foot diameter canopy, with 2 risers and a 57-foot centerline. The additional positions will support the fulfillment of this significant contract in coming years.
Based in Woodfin, Mills has manufactured parachutes and related components for over 75 years serving all branches of the US military and more than 65 US allies. According to CEO John Oswald, ”The G-12E contract win further solidifies our production orders for the next several years, and we’re grateful to our employees for this achievement. Their commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and teamwork have made Mills an industry leader.” In 2009, Mills partnered with A-B Tech to develop a rigorous new hire training and incumbent worker training program to ensure strict adherence to military quality specifications. Oswald added that many of their 225 employees are veterans themselves or have family in the military. “Our employees understand that our products save lives. We take that responsibility to heart.”
Chairman of the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners, David Gantt, commented, “We congratulate the staff and management of Mills Manufacturing on this significant award. We’re especially proud that their world-class products are consistently recognized by the U.S. military as best in class.”
“Mills Manufacturing has now employed over three (3) generations of Buncombe County residents and it’s important to recognize A-B Tech and company management for their ongoing commitment to training. These investments strengthen our workforce, make our local manufacturing jobs more sustainable, and will continue to bring good news to our County for years to come,” said EDC Chairman K. Ray Bailey.
Applications will be accepted in person at the company’s Woodfin offices beginning January 2011.
Mills Manufacturing Corporation is a qualified prime defense contractor for the United States government. All parachutes are produced in strict accordance with current US government design and drawings and comply with all quality and manufacturing specifications. The firm is also an ISO9001:2008 registered company. For more details please visit www.millsmanufacturing.com.