MacDougall Steel Erectors (MSE) has expanded its operations for a second time in less than five years. After experiencing exceptional growth, the locally owned steel fabrication and erection company has expanded their Borden-Carleton facility once again, with support from the federal and provincial governments.
On hand today for the official opening of the expanded operations were Senator Michael Duffy, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), and the Honourable Allan Campbell, PEI Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning.
“The Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, continues to invest in projects that attract jobs and investment to Atlantic Canada,” said Senator Duffy. “Our contribution has helped MacDougall Steel Erectors expand operations which, in turn, supports economic growth within central PEI and its surrounding communities.”
MSE supplies and installs structural steel as well as miscellaneous metals. The company has a design and build capability with in-house detailing and engineering staff. It has grown to include a fabrication plant, stainless steel division and administration facility. At their peak, MSE has a full-time staff of more than 100 fabricators, welders, erection specialists and administrative personnel.
“The Government of Prince Edward Island is pleased to partner with businesses in an effort to create jobs and diversify the economy in rural communities,” said Hon. Allan Campbell. “This expansion is positive news for the economy of Prince Edward Island. MacDougall Steel Erectors is an example of a company that prides itself in delivering quality service. The fact that this work is taking place in Prince Edward Island before being shipped to other markets shows that Islanders can compete with companies around the world.
MSE has experienced significant demand for fabricated steel in markets outside Atlantic Canada, particularly in Western Canada. Despite a physical expansion in 2005, the company saw a need for additional space for the production floor, shipping area as well as the acquisition of additional production equipment.
“We have recently obtained large jobs in the Maritimes and Western Canada,” said MacDougall. “This expansion allows us to compete and improve productivity to be more efficient in supplying those growing markets. Thanks to the assistance we have received from both levels of government, we are able to meet that demand.”
ACOA is supporting MacDougall Steel’s expansion through a repayable loan of $500,000 under its Business Development Program. The Government of Prince Edward Island is investing a repayable loan of $2.4 million to support construction costs and the purchase of production equipment at the Borden-Carleton facility. The province is also providing funding support through the Innovation and Development Labour Rebate program which will provide the company with a labour rebate for the jobs it creates.