Premier Automation launches innovation hub in Pennsylvania

Government and industry leaders attended the Premier Innovation Hub opening. Source: Premier Automation

While the U.S. debates how to reshore manufacturing, several initiatives are occurring at the state level. Premier Automation last week announced the launch of the Premier Innovation Hub, which it asserted will be a national model for industrial automation, workforce development, and technology commercialization. The commonwealth of Pennsylvania has committed more than $3 million in support the facility through a combination of grants, loans, and training funds. 

“We’re building a place where manufacturers, engineers, and innovators can come together to accelerate automation and industrial advancement,” stated Michael Gunniers, president of Premier Automation. “This is more than a facility—it’s a platform for growing new ideas, training the next generation, and strengthening America’s manufacturing future.” 

Premier Automation provides industrial control systems and drives. It also integrates robotics and delivers custom-engineered automation to improve productivity, safety, and efficiency. The company is based just outside Pittsburgh in Monroeville, Pa.

It said it serves industries including manufacturing, metals, energy, and material handling with turnkey solutions and deep engineering expertise. “With a commitment to innovation and workforce development, Premier Automation empowers U.S. manufacturers to compete and grow in a rapidly evolving global market,” the company said.

Premier Innovation Hub leans into local strengths

Located in Westmoreland County, the Premier Innovation Hub will draw from a region known for its experience in mining, steel, and glass production. Today, the county is home to a workforce of nearly 200,000 people with skills across metals, plastics, glass, textiles, printing, medical technology, paper, and logistics.

The new site also benefits from being near the Pittsburgh center of innovation in artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced engineering. Premier Automation said this positions it well to connect traditional industry with modern technology. 

The Premier Innovation Hub is designed to close the gap between cutting-edge automation technologies, including robotics and AI innovation, and the practical needs of traditional manufacturing industries. The facility will support three key initiatives: expanded Premier Automation manufacturing operations, Premier Labs and the ventures it launches, and commercial lease space for companies focused on industrial innovation. 

Premier Labs is a new venture studio focused on launching purpose-built companies in manufacturing automation and AI. Companies launched by labs will incubate at the Premier Innovation Hub, working closely with customers and partners to solve real-world challenges.

Premier Labs is a new venture studio with offices in Pittsburgh and Atlanta. Source: Premier Labs

Pennsylvania invests in tech workforce

Premier Automation said it expects the project to create more than 110 new full-time jobs and retain 130 existing positions. It will also offer shared prototyping and testing facilities, workforce training, event spaces, and collaborative resources for new ventures and established companies alike. 

“Manufacturing, robotics, and technology are some of the key industries identified in Pennsylvania’s 10-year economic development strategy, and we couldn’t be prouder to support an innovative company like Premier,” said Rick Siger, secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). “We’re making bold, strategic investments in projects like this one ― which is injecting millions into the local economy and creating good-paying jobs in the region.” 

The state funding package includes support from the Pennsylvania First Program (PFP), Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA) low-interest loans, and WEDnetPA workforce-training funds. Through the DCED, Gov. Shapiro’s administration said it has recognized the Premier Innovation Hub as “a strategic investment in regional growth and national competitiveness.”

Premier Automation announced the new hub at a gathering of state officials and local manufacturing and elected leaders. Stakeholders toured the site, explored key facility features, and discussed the path forward for innovation-driven manufacturing in the region.

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