Skilled workforce draws Rollon Corp. to Norton Shores for $16M manufacturing facility

Rollon Corp.’s decision to build a $16 million manufacturing facility in Norton Shores wasn’t just about location; it was about people. The global manufacturer of linear motion systems chose Muskegon County, because of the region’s highly skilled workforce — a resource the company says is unmatched.

"I visited the company shortly after they expanded here, and they told me, ‘We came to Muskegon, because of the workforce. We can’t find this workforce anywhere else where our operations are located,’" says Greg King, director of economic development at Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED). "It’s rare to hear that so directly from company officials, and it really reinforces what we’ve been hearing from other manufacturers in the area."

The new 147,000-square-foot facility will produce advanced linear motion systems for industries including robotics, aerospace, medical equipment, and material handling. The project is expected to create 43 high-quality jobs while strengthening Muskegon’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing. Information about the company’s investment and job creation was provided by the GMED. 

Automation industry already established here

Rollon’s move is a significant addition to West Michigan’s growing roster of advanced manufacturing firms, including industry leaders like JR Automation and Mission Design. Rollon produces linear motion systems such as actuators, telescopic rails, and ball screws, complementing the automation expertise already in the area.

"This is a very significant project for the region," King says. "They’re bringing jobs, building a new facility, and proactively engaging with local partners like the Chamber of Commerce, West Michigan Works!, and Muskegon Community College. That level of early engagement isn’t something we always see, and it’s a sign they’re committed to staying here long-term."

Courtesy Rollon Corp.Rollon Corp. chose Muskegon County, because of the region’s highly skilled workforce — a resource the company says is unmatched.

Rollon is working with West Michigan Works! and the community college to develop employee training programs.

King says the project underscores Muskegon’s growing appeal as a hub for high-tech manufacturing.

"It’s exciting to see advanced robotics and automation taking root in Muskegon County," he adds. "Coming from my previous role, it felt like every year there was a new automation project in West Michigan. It’s great to see that growth extending further north into Muskegon now."

King joined GMED as director of economic development in April, bringing five years of experience at Lakeshore Advantage, the economic development organization serving Ottawa and Allegan counties. There, King worked on business retention and expansion projects, a focus he continues to prioritize in Muskegon County.

‘Economic momentum’

Rollon Corp. is a subsidiary of The Timken Co., a 100-year-old global manufacturer of motion solutions. The Ohio-based company operates 64 plants worldwide and serves industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to defense and medical equipment.

"We’ve been owned by Timken since 2018, and they’ve been a great partner," says Andrew Allendorf, Rollon’s North American business president. "Timken lets us run autonomously while providing the resources of a global organization. This investment in Norton Shores reflects our shared commitment to innovation and long-term growth."

"The city of Norton Shores is pleased to welcome Rollon Corp. and their significant capital investment to our community," says Norton Shores Mayor Gary Nelund. "The company’s decision to locate in Norton Shores will add new jobs and build on the economic momentum we are experiencing in our Industrial Park."

King sees Rollon’s decision to invest in Muskegon County as part of the area’s resurgence.

"There’s such a sense of positivity in Muskegon," King says. "Over the past 10 years, we’ve seen a lot of new energy and optimism. We have a current generation of leaders and an emerging one who are focused on making Muskegon a great place to live, work, and play. It’s reflected in the companies choosing to locate here, the revitalization of downtown Muskegon, and the developments in Whitehall and Norton Shores."

King says more announcements are on the horizon. 

"Every time I talk to someone, there’s this excitement about what’s happening here," King says. "People are coming back. They want to be part of something bigger. Rollon’s investment is just the beginning."