APP sees potential County job growth

By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
    PRESQUE ISLE — Enthusiasm for the potential of job growth and creation in Aroostook County was evident in Bob Dorsey’s voice as he spoke at the Sept. 27 Aroostook Partnership for Progress annual breakfast at NMCC.
    Topping his list on the job front was the passage of legislation earlier this year that provides for a smoother permitting process for mining operations in the state.
    “This legislation means the potential of 700 jobs at Bald Mountain. That’s $45 million GDP to the County over 15-20 years. This is a big deal for the County,” said Dorsey, APP president.
    Dorsey said APP has also been a strong supporter of biomass businesses.
    “We’ve received calls from all over about what we’re doing. We’re putting ourselves on the map. That’s what we’ve got to do to be successful,” Dorsey said, noting, “momentum is happening.”
    “This is progress. Spending on biofuels means the money stays here,” said Dorsey, commenting on the success of the first County Biomass Fair held at UMPI this past May.
    Dorsey said a number of organizations have or are in the process of converting their heating systems to biomass units. Among those transition are: UMFK, with its first phase biomass boiler operational and a second phase planned for 2013 (includes HS); Limestone High School, now operational; Fort Fairfield High School is nearing completion; NMCC, whose biomass boiler is fully operational and serving two buildings; Frenchville Airport, with two GARN boilers in two buildings; NMMC, with a biomass boiler under construction; Caribou, with three biomass boilers for four municipal buildings; Loring, with plans approved for two biomass boilers (Pelletco); and torrefied wood manufacturing potential.
    In addition, Dorsey said APP supports compressed natural gas in the County.
    “There’s the potential to save millions – literally millions of dollars that can be used to retain/create jobs. This doesn’t detract from what we’re trying to do with biofuel,” said Dorsey.
    Among those looking into the possibility of using natural gas are: TAMC and UMPI, in Presque Isle; McCain’s, Easton; Naturally Potatoes, Mars Hill; Cary Medical Center, Caribou; Twin Rivers, Madawaska; Moosewood Flooring, Ashland; and Louisiana Pacific and Tate & Lyle, of Houlton.
    Dorsey also discussed out-migration and the belief by many that you have to look elsewhere for good jobs.
    “There’s a misconception that there are no jobs in Aroostook County. We’ve identified at least 1,800 jobs projected in coming years here in Aroostook, created through retirements or company expansions,” he said.
    A website has been established to keep track of potential jobs: www.appme.org/jobs/main.html.
    “About 1,800 jobs have been projected over the next five years: 625 in health care, 350 in manufacturing, 200 in social services, 165 in media/communications, 165 in retail, 90 in insurance and finance, 75 in transportation, 55 in energy, 55 in forestry and 35 in education. There are jobs in Aroostook County,” said Dorsey, adding APP officials have talked with County school superintendents, advising them of the employment opportunities students have right here at home.
    “Kids need to know the jobs are here,” said Dorsey. “But kids have to do their part. We post listings on our website, so folks will see we need their skills and education now.’
    “Part of the reason APP was formed was to prevent out-migration. We need to emphasize skills, education are important. Folks are retiring and we need people to replace those skilled workers.
    APP officials are also interested in improving IT opportunities in the County, be it improved technology at work, home or in schools.
    Dorsey said Mobilize Northern Maine has entered phase two, prioritizing industry goals.  
    “One element we’re focusing on is manufacturing. Manufacturing has great momentum. We see a lot of promise here in manufacturing,” said Dorsey.
    Dorsey indicated there are several manufacturers in Aroostook County that are growing and expanding, creating good jobs right here at home, making products that, in some cases, that are marketed internationally.
    “CAM Manufacturing (in Presque Isle) is growing and effective. Chand Eisenmann, in Caribou, is poised for expansion. Bison Pumps (Houlton) is global and growing. Maine Woods, in Portage, focuses on pride and quality of their product, as does Moosewood Flooring of Ashland,” said Dorsey. “S&W (Smith and Wesson of Houlton) has a huge backlog, with great growth potential. Louisiana Pacific is looking at the potential of growing by 100 jobs. Evergreen Manufacturing also is projecting strong growth.”
    Dorsey noted APP has two new investors this year, First Wind and WAGM.
    “APP’s mission is to grow Aroostook County’s economy. We work to retain and grow business, maintain and create jobs, while providing skilled workers to fill those jobs. We want to stem out-migration, grow the population and attract outside interest in the County,” said Dorsey.
    “Things are happening in Aroostook County. The glass is more than half full. We can and will make a difference,” said Dorsey.