Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation (“MET”) is a leading provider of innovative, trade-specific solutions and equipment for professional construction users and specializes in the development and manufacturing of heavy-duty power tools, hand tools, storage products and accessories.
As one of the top ten employers in Greenwood, Mississippi, MET is a major economic driver for Greenwood and the Mississippi Delta region. Facing a 48% poverty rate and an income level of 47% of the area median, quality employment is critical to promote economic growth in the non-metropolitan city of Greenwood.
Southern Community Capital’s New Market Tax Credit investment was used to purchase new, state-of-the-art equipment to support the growth of MET’s Hole Saw manufacturing operations located in Greenwood. The investment nearly doubles their manufacturing capacity and helps the company meet their broader strategy to further expand their footprint and overall manufacturing capacity in Mississippi.
MET received overwhelming support from the local economic development director and the Mayor of Greenwood. As a valued member of the community, MET has helped rebuild area parks, and its employees volunteer at the local food pantry.
Project Impact
- This project retained 466 jobs and created 213 jobs with access to comprehensive benefits, internal, on‐the‐job training and offsite resources. Most of the management positions at its Greenwood facility are held by individuals promoted from within. MET provides tuition assistance for employees seeking higher education or certifications and up to $2,000 annually for each employee dependent actively participating in post-secondary education. A medical clinic is available on-site for employees.
- MET coordinates with the Mississippi Department of Employment Security, the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and EMI Staffing to source new employees. Background checks were eliminated from the hiring process to support individuals who face barriers to employment.
- This project catalyzed the construction of a new manufacturing facility in Grenada, MS, to expand MET’s Bimetal and Carbide Sawzall Blade manufacturing capabilities and facilitate further growth of its Power Tool Service operations.
