AMHERST - From two men with a dream to start a small business in their hometown, Bradean's Tool and Die has grown to become a world class competitor in the international defence and aerospace industries.
With a five-year payroll rebate up to a maximum of $251,600, the company is set to expand by adding as many as 35 new employees while retaining jobs for 13 existing employees.
"Our company has identified a niche market with tremendous growth possibilities that can be serviced right here in Amherst," company vice-president Dean Smith said soon after Premier Rodney MacDonald announced the funding. "Our people are the backbone of our operations and we're excited about this next phase of growth."
In business in Amherst's industrial park since 2002, Bradean's recently obtained certification in the standardized quality management system for the international aerospace industry. The company serves both local and international clients including IMP Aerospace, APEX Industries, Boeing, Bombardier and Cessna.
The company produces a wide range of airplane parts, components and tooling for fuel tanks, wings and cargo doors.
"These companies come here for the parts, the expertise and the people they need," Lisa Bugden of Nova Scotia Business Inc. said. "This expansion offers more proof to the world that Nova Scotia's aerospace, security and defence sector remains strong and is open for business."
The premier, making his second trip to Cumberland County in a few weeks, applauded the company for taking the initiative and helping make Amherst an aerospace hub.
"This investment illustrates our commitment to growing and keeping jobs in Nova Scotia and that's particularly important during challenging economic times. They are not only creating news jobs, but retaining existing jobs," the premier said. "It's great news for the company, but for the community and for Nova Scotia's aerospace and defence sectors."
The premier said the announcement is a testament to the dedication and commitment shown by company owners Dean Smith and Brad Sprague and to their employees.
"This is the type of story we want to be talking about from one end of this province to the other," he said.
Economic and Rural Renewal Minister Murray Scott said the work of Bradean's is an example of a Nova Scotia company succeeding in tough economic times.
"This company is ready for growth and ready to create new opportunities for Nova Scotians," Scott said. "The province and NSBI are committed to supporting companies like this as it become stronger and more competitive."
The area's MLA, Ernie Fage, welcomed the announcement saying it's an example of what a small business can do if it puts its mind to it.
"I've seen this company undergo some small expansions in recent years, but to see this homegrown company grow like this is tremendous," Fage said.
dcole@amherstdaily.com
