DUBLIN — Wednesday, Valmiera Glass formally opened their second production facility, and the president of the company says they are happy to be here in Central Georgia.
Folks from all across the world came to witness the formal opening of Valmiera Glass' second American facility. President Andre Schwiontek said Dublin was the perfect choice because of its location.
"We were looking for a place that was easy for us to approach. Atlanta airport was a big thing, the main thing was the business incentives the state of Georgia was giving us, but also Laurens County," Schwiontek said.
In 2016, Valmiera announced they were looking for 425 people. Now in 2018, they are still looking to grow.
"At the moment, we still have 100 positions to fill," Schwiontek said.
They plan to fill those positions, and Governor Nathan Deal said he is happy they are bringing jobs to the state and Laurens County.
"He is not the only one who holds up Dublin and Laurens County on how to do things right -- you are also one of our poster children in those regards," Deal said.
Governor Deal also said that the state has come a long way in a short period of time with the new facility.
The production facility is private, but the new multi-million dollar facility is where the high-quality glass will be melted down to help production of an existing building right next door. Laurens County commissioner Jeff Davis said the new building is going to bring a sense of pride.
"People in this community want to work -- we like to work for everything we get, and I'm certain the jobs will be filled. There is a very good employment market in Laurens County," Davis said.
Davis said people have been spending money and the economic impact has already been felt in his district.
The Dublin plant makes fiberglass parts for cars, planes, and even spacecraft. Oconee Fall Line Technical College will offer courses to get potential employees ready for jobs at Valmiera.