Delta Industrial Valves Receives Business Award

Niles, Michigan. The Southwestern Michigan Economic Growth Alliance (SMEGA) presented their annual President’s Business Award to Keith Stelter, President of Delta Industrial Valves this Monday.  SMEGA President, Dominick Saratore, presented the award to Mr. Stelter at the company’s new offices in the Niles Industrial Park. 

“We want to recognize this company for their growth, quality products, dedication to their employees, and commitment to Michigan.”  Saratore said. 

Founded as a division of Delta Machining, Delta Industrial Valves began production in 1987.  Keith Stelter and Mark Johnson purchased the company in 2001 and have continued to grow and develop the company and its products since then.  Shelley Klug, Executive Director of SMEGA commented on the company’s employment.  “This company has almost doubled the number of their employees in the last two years – that is the kind of job growth we can all celebrate.”

Following the presentation, SMEGA board members and guests toured the facility with Stelter and congratulated the company on their success.

From left to right: Keith Stelter, President of Delta Industrial Valves; Barry Visel, SMEGA Executive Board member; Dominick Saratore, SMEGA President; and Tom Grant, SMEGA Vice President

SMEGA Recognizes Jerry French

The Southwestern Michigan Economic Growth Alliance (SMEGA) presented their “President’s Individual Award’ to Jerry French, president of French Paper Company Aug. 17.

Tom Grant, vice president of SMEGA presented the award to French as recognition of his lifelong personal commitment and dedication to supporting economic development and his community.

“Jerry’s leadership of his company and support of community development sets a high standard for us to follow,” Grant said.

French Paper Company is celebrating their 140^th anniversary this year and has been recognized as the oldest family-owned and operated in Niles and in the state of Michigan. In addition to leading the company, French has been involved in numerous boards and organizations for many years, providing positive support for Niles.

“We are proud to have such a strong partner and friend guiding economic development efforts through active participation and by example of how to get things done,” said Shelley Klug, executive director of SMEGA.

The Southwestern Michigan Economic Growth Alliance has provided economic development support to communities in southern Berrien County since 1982. Every year the organization recognizes those who have demonstrated leadership and dedication to furthering economic growth in Southwest Michigan.