Our Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) team recently visited EMI Quality Plating Service LLC, a locally owned metal finishing company in Evansville experiencing strong growth across defense, aerospace, and industrial markets.
We met with Jake Stocks (CEO), Ryan McGhee (Plant Engineer), and Jo’Van Wiggins (COO), alongside partners from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (Andrea Lendy), the Southwest Indiana Workforce Board (Valerie Schmidt), and E-REP (Kaylie Pruiett).
During the visit, EMI shared how increasing demand—particularly tied to defense-related work—is driving new opportunities for the business. The company continues to expand its capabilities by integrating machining, plating, and assembly services, allowing them to better serve customers and strengthen their role in critical supply chains.
As EMI grows, workforce development remains a key focus. The company is actively building talent pipelines through local partnerships, internships, and on-the-job training, while exploring additional pathways to develop the next generation of skilled workers.
E-REP and its partners will continue supporting EMI through workforce resources, strategic connections, and ongoing engagement as the company continues to grow in the Evansville Region.
About Business Retention & Expansion: E-REP’s Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) program is a proactive economic development strategy focused on strengthening the local economy by supporting, retaining, and fostering the growth of existing businesses. These programs identify and resolve local business challenges—such as workforce, infrastructure, or regulatory issues—through direct engagement, surveys, and partnerships to prevent closures and encourage expansion