By By Robbie Byrd, News Editor
POARCH – Poarch Creek Enterprises' Muskogee Metal Works officially signed a contract Thursday that would give it 51 percent of profits from a $47.5 million contract with the U.S. Department of Defense.
Following the loss of several industries in the Atmore area, Poarch Creek Enterprises are moving forward to improve conditions in the area.
MMW has entered into a joint partnership with Manufacturing Technology Inc., an Orlando based firm, to produce training simulation equipment at its Poarch facility.
The five-year partnership, which has been dubbed Muskogee Technologies, will produce the items for the U.S. Army Simulation and Training Command, or Stricom.
The staff dozen or so employees at MMW is expected to double within the end of the year, according to Chief Executive Officer Mal McGhee.
The plan is to help build over 100 jobs at the facility over the next five years, McGhee said, as well as retain high paying high-tech jobs on the reservation to help keep the tribes youth on the reservation.
Representatives with MTI, MMW, PCI, DOD and the Small Business Administration were on hand for the signing Thursday.
Atmore Mayor Howard Shell, who was on hand for the signing, said he was hopeful that the new industry would bring jobs to the area.
Under the five year contract the Muskogee Technologies Partnership will produce ground vehicle simulators that be used at the