Manufacturing plays a pivotal role in the socioeconomic fabric of a nation, and its significance in rebuilding and sustaining a thriving middle class cannot be overstated. The Missoula Economic Partnership, Missoula Redevelopment Agency, and IMEG were honored to celebrate with Diversified Plastics, Inc. (DPI) as they cut the ribbon on the first phase of the expansion of their Missoula facility.

The growth of Diversified Plastics allows them to add more fulfilling, well-paying jobs in the manufacturing sector. “These are the jobs that are going to give our community, our state, and our country the. power to be resilient in the face of major changes,” MEP CEO Grant Kier told the crowd of approximately 75 people. “We’re delighted to be working on these kinds of projects and support DPI in any way.”

He praised DPI Owner and President Brad Reid for his vision and courage to persevere through the years-long process of making the project a reality. Reid and the team at DPI guided groups on tours through the new facility, showcasing state-of-the-art automation and equipment.

The middle class is the backbone of a stable and prosperous society, fostering economic security, social mobility, and a robust consumer base. Manufacturing industries create well-paying jobs, often with benefits, providing individuals and families with the means to achieve financial stability and upward mobility. Moreover, these jobs frequently require a range of skill sets, making manufacturing a vital driver of workforce development and education. By bolstering manufacturing, we not only fortify the economic foundation of the middle class but also foster a more equitable society, where opportunity and prosperity are accessible to a broader cross-section of the population. In this context, investing in manufacturing is an investment in the vitality and resilience of the middle class, with far-reaching positive implications for the overall health and prosperity of a nation.