THE FREDERICK COUNTY OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Services:
The Frederick County Office of Economic Development (FCOED) is a department under the Frederick County Division of Economic Opportunity.
FCOED’s mission is to sustain, diversify and grow Frederick County’s vibrant economy by providing leadership and resources for businesses to start, locate and expand.
Located at ROOT in the heart of Downtown Frederick, FCOED has the resources to get businesses connected. FCOED provides businesses assistance with site selection, grants and incentives, marketing and more.
At FCOED, a vision of shared prosperity is at the heart of every community project and bold idea. From diversity initiatives to infrastructure, placemaking to business development, our community shapes where we go—and how we grow.
» Business Expansion and Location Assistance
» Incentive and Funding Resources
» Permitting and Zoning Assistance
» Marketing and Public Relations
» Small Business Services and EmPOWER Program
» Business Networking and Industry Connections
» Demographic and Business Data
From left, front row: Endia Snowden, Solash Aviles, Janel Spencer, Lara Fritts, Beth Woodring, Jodie Bollinger, Cindy Harris; back row: Connor Wheeler, Britt Swartzlander, Troy Bolyard. Not Pictured: Patrick Hedlund
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FREDERICK COUNTY OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Supplement to Frederick Magazine
Laura Fritts, Director of the Frederick County Division of Economic Opportunity
Beth Woodring, Director of Financial Operations
Cindy Harris, Executive Assistant and Project Coordinator
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Jodie Bollinger, Department Director
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Britt Swartzlander, Communications Manager
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TABLE OF contents
8 Past, Present and Future: Manufacturing is Integral to Frederick County
A look at how manufacturing has played a large part in the local economy through the decades and what lies in the future.
18 Made in Frederick Makes a Large Ripple
From electronics and components, to machinery, construction materials, and life science research and development, “made in Frederick” is a reality in the local economy.
26 Building a Future: Career Opportunities Thrive in Frederick Manufacturing
Whether you’re looking to start a career, upskill, or grow a business, Frederick offers a healthy ecosystem to support those ambitions.
34 Forward Frederick County
The Frederick County Office of Economic Development presents its 2024 annual report.
42 Profiles of the Top 50 Manufacturers for 2024
Fifty manufacturers producing products ranging from circuit boards, steel joists and lawn mowers to pharmaceuticals and apple butter are singled out for their contributions to the Frederick economy.
By Eric Looney
PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE Manufacturing is Integral to Frederick County
1744
In 1744, Daniel Dulany, who was involved with the business side of settling the area around the Monocacy River, made a visit to see the land for himself.
What he discovered was abundant opportunity; writing that the area equaled, “any in America for natural advantages, such as rich and fertile soil, well furnished with timber of all sorts, abounding with limestone, and stone fit for building.”
Abundant opportunity alone is not enough to sustain an industry, and throughout Frederick County’s history, adaptation has long been a necessary ingredient in the manufacturing sector’s success. After a long decline beginning at the close of World War II, manufacturing in Frederick County is experiencing an exciting resurgence today.
Dulany, who would eventually go on to not only call the county home, but design the city of Frederick, was responsible for many German farmers immigrating to the region in the mid to late 18th century. These farmers brought with them a variety of grains and their farming traditions, culminating in the area becoming, for a time, a hub for mills. A prominent lumber and carpentry industry also aided in the county’s early prosperity, as well as a limestone quarry, tanneries, brickmaking, and even inroads into the glass industry.
Russ Hodge, founder and president of 3 Roads Communications in Frederick and executive producer of the recent film InSpired: The Frederick Documentary, points out that, “compared to neighbors such as Baltimore and Hagerstown, Frederick was a relative lightweight when it came to manufacturing, and that was largely by design.”
Russ Hodge, who recently finished Inspired: The Frederick Documentary.
In those early days, Frederick operated more as a trading economy. “One of the economists featured in InSpired talks about how Frederick’s trading route heritage always made Frederick more open to diversity and to outsiders, which put it in good stead for the knowledge-based economy that has propelled Frederick forward economically and socially in the past 50 years,” Hodge says.
Jumping forward to the 19th century, many of those existing aspects of the economy laid the foundation for the manufacturing industry to grow and evolve. The area was peppered with
flour mills, limestone quarries continued to operate, and the coming railroad helped expand the county’s reach and influence.
A plethora of local lumber created charcoal that helped run the lime and iron processing. Lime, as well as local tree bark, in turn allowed the tanning industry to grow. Machine shops became a natural part of the city landscape. All of this industry made Frederick a perfect target for the effects of the Industrial Revolution, and by the end of the century, sophisticated large-scale techniques had brought textile factories, canning plants and increasingly robust iron and steel industries into the county.
In the first half of the 20th century, thanks to labor laws, a workday was down from the 1800’s standard of up to 12 hours. Though this workday had dropped to a measly nine hours, productivity only increased.
Original Factories Repurposed
Influenced by both its robust manufacturing history, accessibility towards the larger markets of Baltimore and Washington, D.C., plus the eco-
nomic effects of World War I, the east side of Downtown Frederick was home to a myriad of manufacturers, operating out of many historic buildings which still house thriving Frederick businesses today.
Everedy Square & Shab Row, now a popular shopping district, was home to countless manufacturers, including The Everedy Company, which initially produced the means for capping bottles, and later manufactured munitions during World War II. Union Mills Knitting Company operated as a hosiery factory, which, along with the DuPont Chemical Company, would go on to produce the first nylon stockings in the late 1930s. The site is now bustling with several breweries and other businesses.
business, later known as Frederick Iron and Steel Company, was reported to be the last foundry in Frederick County and still had 150 employees in the mid-70s. Today, the site operates, as it has since 1989, as Dairy Maid Dairy.
After World War II, Frederick manufacturing entered a state of decline. According to Jodie Bollinger, department director, at the Frederick County Office of Economic Development, this was representative of broader national trends.
The Morris Iron Company specialized in stateof-the-art street lighting poles, including ones shipped off to New York City. Two of those streetlights can still be seen today at 112 E. Patrick St. The
“Over time,” says Bollinger, “Frederick’s economy began shifting toward service-oriented industries and eventually biotechnology and technology fields.” Most manufacturers either left the region or were put out of business by larger competition, and though the impact on Frederick’s economy was not utterly devastating, the effects were felt. “By the late 20th century,” Bollinger continues, “many of the county’s iconic manufacturing facilities had shuttered, leaving behind empty warehouses and a significant gap in the local job market.”
Today, a quarter of the way into the 21st century, Frederick County’s manufacturing industry has experienced a remarkable resurgence. According to Rick Weldon, president and CEO of the Frederick County
A number of Frederick manufacturers are doing business today in historic buildings such as Dairy Maid Dairy, left, and Everedy Square, below.
Jodie Bollinger, department director at the Frederick County Office of Economic Development. On the left, the former Union Knitting Mill, now home to breweries and other businesses.
Chamber of Commerce, many of our most successful manufacturers work in the life sciences field, producing pharmaceutical products such as cancer treatments and pathogen testing materials.
“What we’ve found,” Weldon says, “is that once a few major life sciences facilities open, the infrastructure for this kind of company starts to flourish. The creation of a civic infrastructure system, particularly one that emphasizes career and technology education in the K-12 public education system, a favorable regulatory environment, and a robust higher education network offering skills that relate to employer needs, seems to be essential.”
FITCI Prompts New Ventures
An additional vital element of Frederick’s economic engine is The Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. FITCI incubates start-ups and early-stage companies to a highly successful degree, with 93 of their start-ups becoming successful businesses in 2024, and a 97 percent retention rate. The organization focuses on technology and life sciences, with a special emphasis on nurturing “clean” and advanced companies.
Several Frederick manufacturers function on a national scale, and many function on an international basis. Some examples include EDCO, LONZA, and AstraZeneca. The latter two recently received significant investments from The Division of Economic Opportunity. This division, including
the Frederick County Office of Economic Development and Frederick County Workforce Services, works to support manufacturers to start, grow, and expand locally. Another one of their recent investments is in Hercules Custom Iron, a business which harkens back to the early days of the county’s manufacturing success.
This is a time of rapid, possibly exponential growth, and Frederick County is in the game. According to Weldon, manufacturing, including life sciences, is the county’s second-most robust sector, barely trailing agriculture. Employment in the sector has increased 10 percent from 2018 to 2023. This number is projected to grow another 14 percent by 2028, thanks in part to Frederick’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and a collaborative working ecosystem that streamlines regional, state and local concerns.
Frederick County’s forward-thinking approach continues to position its manufacturing sector as a vital contributor to the state’s economic success. Through strategic investments in workforce development, infrastructure and innovation, the county is not only attracting cutting-edge
manufacturing companies but also fostering a supportive ecosystem for businesses already thriving here, Bollinger says.
Documentarian Hodge expands on this idea, stating that, “over time, paradigms have shifted, and employers now locate where skilled workers are, rather than workers locating where employers are.
“If a highly skilled, highly educated, diverse workforce enjoys living in Frederick for all of the benefits that it offers them and their families, that’s the best thing the city and county can do to attract new manufacturing and keep the manufacturing they have.”
Bollinger sums it up in one sentence. “Frederick County’s manufacturing sector has not only seen a resurgence but is positioned to be a cornerstone of the local economy well into the future.”
The Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc., fosters start-ups and early-stage companies to achieve success. FITCI’s focus includes technology and life sciences.
Frederick’s strategic location at the crossroads of I-70 and I-270 offers convenient access to much of the East Coast and Midwest, making it easier to produce goods locally and transport them to a wide range of destinations, from international markets to the White House.
From electronics and components, to machinery, construction materials, and life science research and development, “Made in Frederick” is a reality in the local economy. Swimming pool materials made in Thur-
mont by Federal Stone, to cabinetry used in the White House produced by New Era Custom Design, or proteins for tissue regeneration from Theradaptive—all are prime examples of the work being done locally.
To further support the manufacturing sector, www.MadeinFrederickMD.com, an initiative by the Frederick County Office of Economic Develop-
ment, provides resources to foster industry growth. The website highlights manufacturing advantages, offers a job board, directory and videos spotlighting leading manufacturers and connects businesses with tools to thrive in a global market.
Here’s a snapshot of the Made in Frederick movement.
THERADAPTIVE
Luis Alvarez founded Theradaptive after serving in Iraq where the most common injuries
he saw to troops were to body extremities, making movement a challenge. Alvarez, an Army Intel officer, decided to focus his budding scientific career on research and development. After Iraq, he studied biological engineering at MIT, later, researching regenerative medicine at Fort Detrick.
Alvarez studied the process of
how to engineer proteins to interact with materials that would help them stick to tissue. When body parts, especially extremities, get injured, the body often struggles to get enough blood to the injured area to regenerate tissue. That struggle can render the body part useless.
To change that, the power of a protein is used to help an implantable device stay in place long enough to help the body regenerate tissue. This targeted delivery of proteins can be paired
with flexible ceramic implants developed by Theradaptive that resemble the body part, with the goal of helping people regain use of what was lost.
The product is currently in a clinical trial with 80 patients, located all around the U.S., eventually expanding to 250 patients. Alvarez estimates it will be about three and a half years to get the product onto the market.
“Our first study is for spinal fusion,” he says. Patients have already noticed faster recoveries.
Being in Frederick County is a plus for the company, he says. “Frederick is a great place for
talent and a supportive environment.”
The company, located on New Horizons Way, started in 2017 with the help of FITCI, the Frederick Innovative Technology Center. Theradaptive now employs 33 people. Some of the manufacturing is now done in Texas and California, but Alvarez plans to bring those operations to Frederick within 18 months.
PHOENIX MECANO
Phoenix Mecano has been building industrial and electronic enclosures in Frederick County for the past 40 years. Made of aluminum, stainless steel, or plastic, these enclosures protect electrical systems in their application environment.
Using a catalog enclosure, Phoenix Mecano customizes the box to the customer’s needs. These enclosures go into many industries, including agricultural, medical, railroad, fire trucks and small electrical vehicles.
From protecting components for headsets used by firefighters to the heavily regulated oil and gas industry, the enclosures protect electronic equipment
from failures in high stress situations. An enclosure meant to be used by an oil or gas refinery in a harsh, outdoor setting will have a different protective capacity than that used by an indoor medical provider. Each enclosure is designed to fit the setting as well as the individual use.
“We are an engineering firm first, and we offer machining, painting and other customization to finish the design,” says Rebekah Collogan, vice
president of engineering.
Phoenix Mecano’s Frederick location opened 40 years ago on Executive Way.
Frederick is the global organization’s main North American presence, with 80 employees based in Frederick and another five in Chino, Calif., providing a West Coast presence.
The workforce is diverse, with three men and five women on the executive team. Frederick County Workforce Services and Frederick Community College have been key in providing training, often during working hours, to give employees the skills they need. “You have to do professional development with your employees,” says Tara Julian, human resources manager. “No year is the same, so we continually reassess and update our programs.”
WILCOXON SENSING TECHNOLOGIES
Seven years ago, Wilcoxon Sensing Technologies, on Progress Drive, moved from German-
town to Frederick County. “Frederick’s workforce offers a variety of skilled employees, from engineers to finance, electronic assemblers, sales and machinists,” says Dr. Chris McLean, company president. “Our employees come in with general skills and we train them in the specifics.”
“We make accelerometers, which are sensors that measure vibration,” McLean says. “There are a lot of applications for them. Many customers use them to monitor the health of production assets, like motors, gear boxes and fans.”
The best way to describe it, he says, is like an “acoustic check engine light” for industrial equipment. “We can tell if the oil is low, if a bearing is pitted, if a gear is cracked, or if failure is imminent.
“Our products, and our employees who make them, are making an impact every day,” McLean says, pointing to their work supporting the defense and renewable energy sectors. “We are a leading provider of vibrator sensors for wind turbines,” he says. “Our sensors help prevent failures and are important to renewable wind energy.” As a defense subcontractor, Wilcoxon has
been involved in underwater acoustic sensors. Wilcoxon has been contributing to the mission needs and defense goals for underwater applications since the company was founded in 1960 by scientists from what is now the Naval Surface Warfare Center.
NEW ERA CUSTOM DESIGN
New Era Custom Design manufactures wood cabinetry and architectural millwork that goes well beyond the average kitchen or bath cabinet. Owner and founder John Gage said the company still makes high end kitchen cabinets for a few customers, but the company’s primary business is commercial cabinetry and millwork for hospitals, schools, restaurants and retail stores.
New Era cabinets and displays are in Whole Foods stores throughout the country. They are also in Columbia Sportswear outlets nationwide. There are even New Era cabinets in the White House,
installed in the Roosevelt Room. Cabinets are manufactured with wood, laminate or veneer finishes. Custom moldings and ornamental metal fabrication are also services available. New Era once made custom moldings for a renovation at Ford’s Theater.
Gage started the company in 1979 in his basement. The company currently occupies 63,000 square-feet of a 106,000 square foot building owned by John Gage in Frederick’s Industrial Center East. “We built a good reputation through word of mouth,” Gage said. Business has steadily grown over the years.
Frederick’s location near the Washington-Baltimore hub makes it easy for the company to ship all over the coun-
try, Gage said. It also provides a skilled workforce. Some New Era employees have been with the company for nearly 40 years, and many more have been there at least 20 years, Gage said.
FEDERAL STONE
Based in Thurmont, Federal Stone has been providing pool coping for 60 years. Pool coping is the protective edge of an in-ground pool that barricades pool water from seeping into the ground surrounding the concrete pool shell. “It maintains the structural integrity of the pool beam and avoids water damage to surrounding areas,” said Brandon Rethemeyer, co-owner and vice president of sales and marketing.
Pool coping also shields the edge of the pool
from ultraviolet light damage, chemicals, and wear and tear over time. Coping is typically made of natural stone, precast concrete, tile or brick. Federal stone offers precast concrete coping in a variety of edge profiles, with mix design being either large aggregate or sandstone styles. Colors range from white to a choice of tinted.
Pool coping can be used to edge a pool, but it can also be used for custom projects like swim-up bars and wall caps. Federal Stone manufactures pool coping for projects ranging from hotels and resorts to residential. One of the company’s bread and butter products is a raised safety edge with ergonomically correct hand grips.
Federal Stone products can also be found in skate parks as far away as Australia, although one is nearby at the Hagerstown Skate Park. Skate parks often resemble pool designs, and the finish is the same.
Federal Stone uses sand, cement and aggregate materials from local quarries to provide a product that with-
stands the freeze-thaw conditions common in temperate parts of the U.S. There are only three pool coping suppliers in the U.S., Brethemeyer said.
Federal Stone employs about 30 people in the company started by Brethemeyer’s grandfather in 1965. In 2025, the company will move into a new, larger home in Emmitsburg.
OTHER COMPANIES
These are not the only companies that make products here in Frederick. Others include:
• InventWood: Produces SuperWood, a sustainable, strong and versatile material that out performs hardwoods, steel and concrete.
• Saputo Dairy: One of the top 10 dairy producers in the world, Saputo produces extended shelf dairy and non-dairy products.
• Structural Building Solutions: This Thurmont company provides roof truss, floor truss and wall panel packages.
• Hercules Custom Iron: An affiliate of Hercules Fence, this company designs and produces custom iron ornamental products for commercial, industrial, or residential clients.
• Galaxy Control System: Located in Walkersville, they are a leader in manufacturing integrated access control and security management systems.
• Orchid Cellar Meadery and Winery: Located in the Middletown Valley, Orchid Cellar specializes in mead, made from fermented honey. Orchid Cellar offers meads ranging from dry to sweet. They also offer several varieties of wine.
Hercules Custom Iron
Orchid Cellar Meadery and Winery
By April Bartel
Combining innovation, opportunity, and strategic partnerships, Frederick County’s robust manufacturing sector is an instrument of social change on many levels—from the creation of innovative and indemand products to strengthening America’s position in the global marketplace and building economic resilience through career pathways for individuals.
Frederick is a hub for advanced manufacturing, especially in life sciences and the forwardthinking programs aimed at bringing “Industry 4.0” requirements into focus. Whether you’re looking to start a career, upskill, or grow a business, Frederick offers a healthy ecosystem to support those ambitions.
Local companies like Kite Pharma, STULZ USA, Wright Manufacturing, AstraZeneca, and Phoenix Mecano
exemplify the region’s diversity, ranging from life sciences to traditional manufacturing. They complement the wealth of smaller businesses and startups that keep the beat of local manufacturing tapping in rhythm. Those include food and beverage makers, producers of computers and electronics, even wood and paper products. Overall, over 225 manufacturers employ more than 5,700 people in Frederick County.
Frederick’s manufacturing ecosystem is bolstered by organizations like the Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland (RMI), Maryland Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MDMEP), Frederick County Workforce Services (FCWS) and both Frederick County’s and the City of Frederick’s Economic Development Departments. These groups provide businesses with critical
support, including workforce training, access to grants, and guidance on adopting advanced technologies since healthy, local economies ultimately lay a foundation for state, regional, and national success.
FCWS is a primary resource for job seekers and companies looking for workers. Patty McDonald, their program manager for Business and Career Services, says manufacturing is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector in Frederick County. She points to the organization’s free, online labor market dashboard for information on trends, salaries and in-demand skills. Manufacturing ranks high in local employment industries among biotech, healthcare, financial services, and tourism sectors, but it climbs the list in growth potential with a projected increase of 14 percent between 2023 and 2028.
FCWS is part of the nationwide network of 2,400 American Job Centers designed to foster economic growth through comprehensive employment and workforce development services, forming a cornerstone for the U.S. labor market infrastructure. Job seekers can get basic job search assistance or attend resume workshops and targeted skills training. For career development, FCWS includes specialized services for veterans, youth and people with disabilities.
McDonald says, “We focus on helping people find a career pathway that’s going to lead to selfsufficiency… We look at the entire individualized process and the things that they may be experiencing in their life. Then we try to help to set them up for success.”
For businesses, FCWS helps with recruitment, training, and labor market insights, like competitive
analysis on wages, plus cooperative projects like job fairs or internships and apprenticeships.
Inviting All to the Table
FCWS is not industry-exclusive, but McDonald notes that manufacturing offers a wide range of career inroads for individuals of all education levels. Entry-level roles, such as production technicians and machine operators, provide a route for those with a basic education, like recent high school grads,
to start a career. For positions tied to a company’s proprietary machinery or unique process, onthe-job training fits the bill, while more advanced positions in engineering and logistics cater to those with specialized training or degrees.
“Manufacturing really does run the gamut,” emphasizes McDonald. “You could, realistically, get into
the industry with any kind of educational background.”
Frederick Community College plays a vital role in workforce development, offering tailored programs in manufacturing technology, logistics, and industrial maintenance. These courses are designed to prepare students for high-demand roles through hands-on learning and industry certification. Programs like the Certified Logistics Technician credential, as well as internships and apprenticeships, even
biomanufacturing “boot camps” — conducted in collaboration with Maryland Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MDMEP)—equip participants with the skills employers need.
Mike Kelleher, executive director of MDMEP, highlights the importance of collaboration. “We’ve had great success partnering with Mike Kelleher
Frederick Community College and Workforce Services. These initiatives provide opportunities for individuals to gain employment in biomanufacturing.”
The biological technician apprenticeship program is tailored to meet the overlapping needs of Frederick County’s strong science and technology industries preparing graduates for roles as biological technicians, laboratory assistants, or quality assurance specialists.
The Maryland Apprenticeship and Training Program (MATP) is a workforce development initiative managed by the Maryland Department of Labor. It is designed
to connect employers with job seekers through structured, earn-and-learn opportunities in various industries that combine on-the-job training with related classroom instruction.
The Maryland Youth Apprenticeship Program provides a path towards higher education for high school students through its focus on STEM and manufacturing.
Additionally, the Maryland Manufacturing Internship Program connects businesses with college students exploring related careers in supply chain management, marketing and environmental services. Businesses can take advantage of the Maryland Apprenticeship Tax Credit, which helps employers develop structured training programs. Well-known companies such as AstraZeneca and Kite Pharma already offer hands-on programs, too.
McDonald notes, “Typically, within a
manufacturing environment, there’s an opportunity to move up. Whether that’s through on-thejob learning or continued education, employers encourage growth.”
Deep and Wide
Dr. Mike Galiazzo, president of the Regional Manufacturing Institute (RMI), says Frederick County gets a lot right. “You’ve got great companies out there, and strong leadership that’s helping advance the manufacturing sector.” While experts tout plentiful opportunities to get in on the ground floor with a career in manufacturing, Galiazzo reminds us that a breadth of opportunities lie beyond the front line. “People don’t understand that manufacturers need accountants and marketing people. They need graphic designers...manufacturers employ nurses.” McDonald concurs. “Absolutely. You need HR…You need a sales department to serve customers.
[Manufacturing] is really an industry that can support a lot of different types of skill bases and education levels.”
Patty McDonald
Both encourage job seekers to think creatively when reviewing employment listings.
Workforce challenges persist despite the growth. The industry faces common issues such as supply chain disruptions and competition from global markets. The foremost problems with recruiting, according to Galiazzo,
come down to public awareness and common misconceptions about the industry.
“Manufacturing today is not the manufacturing of yesterday,” he explains. “These facilities are modern, exceptionally clean, organized and hightech.”
“ ”
We believe strongly that the future of manufacturing involves manufacturers, government, education and the community at large.
— Dr. Mike Galiazzo
Now in its 36th year, RMI started with Galiazzo during his tenure with Dundalk Community College. “Our focus is on advocacy, education and building community.” He says that behavioral and “soft” skills, like problem solving, digital literacy, and teamwork,
as well as job readiness, remain significant hurdles for employers filling positions. Training programs tailored to both technical and behavioral competencies help bridge the gap, even while growth within the industry can heighten competition for qualified workers.
Overall, Galiazzo is adamant that cooperation is key. “We believe strongly that the future of manufacturing involves manufacturers, government, education
and the community at large.”
Industry 4.0 is a concept that stresses integrating advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) into production processes. Already, companies are leveraging automation to enhance capabilities, while adopting green practices that align with Maryland’s environmental stewardship goals. Industry 4.0 aims to enhance the sector’s productivity and environmental sustainability. However, the shift also signifies changes to those entry-level jobs.
Galiazzo explains that traditional heavy lifting, or ‘touch jobs,’ are on the way out. “They are going to be replaced by robots.” Moving beyond brawn, manufacturers will be looking for dedicated employees who can learn and grow with the organization.
One thing that won’t change, according to
Kelleher, is manufacturing’s role as a key economic engine for the state.
“I think we’re seeing a resurgence of goods and products being reshored from overseas production. That’s an opportunity for all the U.S., but especially for us here in Maryland. Where we sit geographically, we’re at the heart of the East Coast. We’ve got access to great ports with efficient transportation networks and great towns. So, I think it’s a sector that’s going to continue to grow and thrive.”
Galiazzo is all-in. “Manufacturing is a wealth producing industry that pays well and supports economic resilience.” His future-proofing advice is to invest more in manufacturing. “Grow the number of facilities. Increase the number of employees, so that we can help generate more revenue… creating economic stability for families.” His bottom line, “For many people, manufacturing jobs can be a pathway from poverty to prosperity.”
Despite the looming changes, some things stay the same. Manufacturing is integral to Frederick County’s economic framework, offering unparalleled opportunities for job seekers and business leaders alike. By fostering partnerships, addressing workforce gaps, and embracing Industry 4.0, Frederick County is building a future where manufacturing— and people— continue to thrive.
Dr. Mike Galiazzo
The Frederick County Office of Economic Development’s mission is to sustain, diversify and grow Frederick County’s vibrant economy by providing leadership and resources for businesses to start, locate and expand.
FORWARD » Frederick County
2024 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ANNUAL REPORT
Letter from Frederick County Executive
Jessica Fitzwater
It is my privilege to present the 2024 Annual Report for Frederick County Office of Economic Development, highlighting the progress and achievements we have made together over the past year. This report serves as a testament to our community’s strong economy, innovation, and shared commitment to an even brighter future.
Frederick County continues to lead the way as a hub for economic development, sustainability, and quality of life. From supporting local businesses and welcoming new industries to enhancing our infrastructure and expanding job opportunities for all residents, we are building a stronger, more resilient economy.
Notable milestones this year include growth in Gross Domestic Product, record level visitor spending, and significant investments by companies in advanced manufacturing, life sciences and technology. These successes are made possible through collaboration with our partners, the dedication of our County employees, and the unwavering support of our residents.
As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2024, we also look ahead to the opportunities that await us. Together, we will continue to be inclusive, support equitable growth, and ensure that Frederick County remains a place where everyone can thrive. Thank you for your partnership in making Frederick County a community we are all proud to call home.
Letter from the Director, Division of Economic Opportunity
Lara L. Fritts
The Frederick County Office of Economic Development (FCOED), a proud department within the Division of Economic Opportunity, has achieved another remarkable year in 2024. Through strategic focus and collaborative efforts, our team has garnered recognition on local, regional, and national levels, reflecting our commitment to excellence and innovation.
This Top 50 issue is a celebration of success as we honor Frederick County’s dynamic manufacturing sector. With more than 225 manufacturers calling our county home, the diversity of industries is truly impressive. From life-saving pharmaceuticals to cutting-edge technology and precision components, our manufacturers play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and innovation.
Advanced manufacturing, a cornerstone of Frederick County’s economy, continues to experience significant expansion. Job growth in this sector is robust, reinforcing its position as one of
FCOED’s targeted industries. Recognizing its importance, we recently released the Advanced Manufacturing Industry Profile, the latest addition to our series of industry publications. Packed with essential data, trends, and incentive details, these profiles are invaluable tools for businesses seeking to start, locate, or grow in Frederick County.
As we continue to refine our strategies and celebrate our achievements, we remain steadfast in fostering a vibrant and resilient economy. Frederick County is a place where businesses thrive, innovation flourishes, and opportunities abound.
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis 2023
Source: Frederick County
Source: Tourism Council of Frederick County
FCOED Impact
With our partners, FCOED continues to help businesses to start, locate, and expand. According to the 2024 Business Sentiment Survey, 37% of businesses are considering expanding in Frederick County in the next two years.
29 BUSINESSES LOCATED OR EXPANDED
81 PROSPECTS $284.4M CAPITAL INVESTED
585 JOBS FACILITATED
237 SMALL BUSINESS CLIENTS COUNSELED 44.9% Bachelor’s Degree or higher
7,797
Source: U.S. Census American Community Survey
2024 top highlights
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
Overall, 2024 was an outstanding year for FCOED! Our team achieved significant successes, including helping existing businesses grow, attracting new businesses, creating jobs, and driving investment. We launched new website tools including SizeUp Frederick and ReSimplifi to empower business owners and encourage growth. Our targeted industry programs and enhanced services, including EmPOWER, provided strengthened support. We welcomed new team members to FCOED, and our efforts were recognized with prestigious awards, marking a year of remarkable progress. We are excited to build on this momentum in 2025.
Jodie Bollinger, Director, Department of Economic Development
Online Tools to Support
Local Business
SizeUp Frederick provides free market research and business intelligence.
• Includes an educational video library for new entrepreneurs at www.discoverfrederickmd.com
· Provides a business directory for consumers to shop local: www.discoverfrederickmd.com/207/shop-local
Resimplifi contains detailed listings of available commercial properties throughout Frederick County.
· Up-to-date listings for sale or lease https://www.discover frederickmd.com/200/Buildings-Sites
Business Appreciation Week
For 24 years, FCOED has held Business Appreciation Week to recognize the diverse range of businesses that call Frederick County home. This year, FCOED and teams of business ambassadors met with 53 businesses who recently started, located or expanded in Frederick County, representing:
· Over $63.2M in capital investment
· Over 382,000 SF
· Over 326 jobs
Biotech Boot Camp
The Frederick Biotech Boot Camp continues to train jobseekers in skills needed to enter Frederick County’s growing biotech industry. This training program is made possible thanks to a partnership with Frederick Community College , Frederick County Workforce Services, Maryland Manufacturing Extension Partnership and city and county economic development offices. In 2024, there were 30 graduates and more than 70% found jobs in fields related to life sciences. These efforts combine to attract top-tier talent, cutting-edge research, and high-impact investments.
EmPOWER In 2024, FCOED introduced a loan program for graduates of the EmPOWER Mentorship program to support underrepresented local business owners. Entrepreneurs who complete the Mentorship course may qualify for loans of up to $10,000, offering early-stage capital to grow their businesses while building credit. EmPOWER, sponsored by the City of Frederick, also includes monthly networking events and a virtual business accelerator program. https://www.discoverfrederickmd.com/Blog. aspx?IID=86#item
Accolades
Presented by the Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland and Maryland Manufacturing Extension Partnership, Frederick County 2024 Manufacturing Stars were recognized for significant contributions to Maryland’s industry. Congratulations to:
· Andrew Hrouda, ACDi
· Emily English, PhD, Cartesian Therapeutics
· Adam Sims, INPRO Technologies, Inc.
· Peyton Carter, Karen Denn, Jay Otzelberger, Eeshika Singh, Phoenix Mecano
· Luis Alvarez, Theradaptive
· Jodie Bollinger, Frederick County Office of Economic Development
2024 Selected Company Locations & Expansions:
AstraZeneca (E)
Lonza Walkersville (E)
Metrie (L)
Glen Gery (E)
Dick’s House of Sports (E)
InventWood (L)
Hercules Custom Iron (E)
Engage USA (E)
Federal Stone Industries (E)
Precision Point Shooting and Training Center (L)
Theradaptive (E)
Dill Dinkers Pickelball (L)
BioFactura (L)
Quotient X Solutions (L)
ProSource Wholesale of Frederick (L)
BioAssay Works (E)
FCOED’s Life Sciences Industry Profile, highlighting the local sector’s transformative, lifechanging work, was awarded the 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Level Award from the International Economic Development Council. discoverfrederickmd. com/LSIndustryProfile
Although finding affordable arrangements is important to everyone, you shouldn’t settle for less that the services you want. Because we are a funeral home and cemetery all at one location, we can pass real savings on to you.
With Resthaven, you receive quality services, and the convenience and value of having everything at the same place, with one team of professionals to assist you. Plus, our staff can show you the cost savings benefits and peace of mind pre-planning affords.
Domenica Iocco at Theradaptive.
FREDERICK’S top 50
MANUFACTURERS FOR 2024
» ABICOR Binzel USA, Inc.
» American Computer Development, Inc. (ACDi)
» Astra Zeneca Pharmaceuticals LP
» Bimbo Bakeries USA
» Canam Steel Corporation (CSC)
» Dairy Maid Dairy
» EDCO
» Electronic Contract Assemblers
» Federal Stone Industries, Inc.
» First Response Custom Sewing, Inc.
» Frederick CML
» Galaxy Control System
» Hercules Custom Iron, LLC
» Industrial Indicators
» InventWood
» Kiosk Group, Inc.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
Frederick County is home to hundreds of manufacturers, churning out products ranging from circuit boards, steel joists and lawn mowers to pharmaceuticals and apple butter. Some products produced have national and international reach while others improve life locally. The top 50 Frederick County manufacturers include the following:
» Kite, a Gilead Company
» Leonardo DRS
» Linganore Winecellars
» Lonza Walkersville, Inc.
» McClintock Distilling Company
» McCormick Paints
» McCutcheon’s Apple Products, Inc.
» Metlfab, Inc.
» Moo Cow Creamery
» Moore
» New Era Custom Design
» NVR, Inc.
» Phoenix Mecano
» Puerto Rico Distillery
» Quantic PMI (Planar Monolithics)
» rfidCollect LLC
» Rinker Materials
» RoosterBio Inc.
» Saputo USA
» Savage Soaps
» ShieldCo Art
» Structural Building Solutions
» Stulz Air Technology Systems Inc.
» Summit Anchor Company, Inc.
» TAMKO Building Products, LLC
» Tenth Ward Distilling Company
» Theradaptive
» Thermo Fisher Scientific
» Trans-Tech
» Uncle Ralph’s Bakery
» United Plate Glass of Maryland, LLC
» Wilcoxon Sensing Systems
» Wright Manufacturing
» ZEGAZ Instruments
650 Medimmune Court, Suite 110 Frederick www.binzel-abicor.com
ABICOR Binzel USA, Inc. creates arc welding and plasma cutting equipment as well as automation welding systems for the U.S. market. The company offers leading-edge technologies to improve efficiencies in metal fabrication, while also helping create an improved environment. Many new products and technologies are developed collaboratively with customers, driven by their specific needs.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 86
AMERICAN COMPUTER DEVELOPMENT, Inc.
7435 New Technology Way, Suite A, Frederick | www.acdi.com
ACDi, headquartered in Frederick, specializes in manufacturing printed circuit boards (PCB) and electronic assemblies. As an end-to-end electronics design and manufacturing expert, ACDi is known for its PCB layout and electronics assembly capabilities. ACDi’s PCB layout, manufacturing and assembly services, test/inspection, systems integration, NPI and product lifecycle management solutions enable OEMs to focus on their business while ACDi focuses on product realization and optimization. By combining design and manufacturing under one roof, ACDi streamlines production, enabling clients to efficiently bring their electronic innovations to market.
Bimbo Bakeries USA
7110 English Muffin Way, Frederick www.bimbobakeriesusa.com
Located on the aptly named English Muffin Way, Bimbo Bakeries produces Thomas’ English Muffins. Bimbo Bakeries USA is the largest commercial baking company in the U.S. offering fresh products that have delighted families for generations. They deliver bread, bagels, buns, English muffins and sweet baked goods to every town and community in the country—well-known brands including Sara Lee, Entenmann’s, Little Bites, and Arnold. Bimbo Bakeries USA’s purpose is “Nourishing a Better World,” a commitment to nourishing people and the planet.
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals
633 Research Court, Frederick | www.astrazeneca.com
AstraZeneca’s Frederick location is the company’s largest drug substance biologics manufacturing center. They produce over 100 batches a year of eight commercially approved biologic products, distributed around the world.
Recognized as one of AstraZeneca’s five global Digital Lighthouses, the Frederick manufacturing facility invests in their processes with digital innovation solutions.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 117
Canam Steel Corporation
4010 Clay St., Point of Rocks www.cscsteelusa.com
Canam Steel Corporation is a fabricator of steel components including joist and joist girders, metal deck and other products. Since 1986, CSC has been headquartered in Frederick County, and they are passionate about keeping U.S. dollars here in the states. They employ people across the country, and the majority of their steel mill partners produce steel in the U.S.
Dairy Maid Dairy LLC
Dairy Maid Dairy produces fresh local milk and juice. The company is a proud member of the Dairy Farmers of America, a farmer owned co-op. The company’s key initiatives focus on maximizing the value of milk through an efficient and sustainable milk supply chain while building a forward-looking dairy beverage network. This local company stays involved in the Frederick community through initiatives like donating dairy products to the Rescue Mission.
(Equipment Development Company, Inc.) has two manufacturing divisions. One makes EDCO branded products including small construction equipment, while EDCO Fabrication Manufacturing Services makes items for other manufacturing companies. EDCO’s origins stem from two budding entrepreneurs who created the modern-day concrete floor grinder for their rental store clientele and developed EDCO to manufacture an array of “rental-tough” products. Their team is passionate about training, quality and safety, investing in technology and American manufacturing.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 200
Electronic Contract Assemblers
Electronic Contract Assemblers manufactures custom electronic and cable assemblies for OEMS across many industries. The company specializes in prototypes and small runs. ECA is a family-owned business, and has been operating in Frederick for 34 years. This business takes pride in building relationships with Maryland businesses and innovators. In fact, many of their customers are located in Frederick and Montgomery Counties. Maintaining close relationships with customers helps ECA to develop their product and address design changes quickly.
First Response Custom Sewing, Inc.
Since 2008, First Response Custom Sewing has been serving the members of the community who, in turn, serve their community. The business supports military and first responders, along with companies in the U.S. First Response Custom Sewing is a full-service commercial and industrial sewing manufacturing contractor that produces a broad line of products including military supply bags, first responder portable stretchers, body bags, medical bags, portable morgues, body and safety harnesses, and custom items.
Federal Stone Industries, Inc.
Federal Stone Industries is a pre-cast concrete manufacturer for swimming pool coping, wall caps and pavers. The company has been manufacturing in Frederick County for 60 years and is working on a new warehouse and office in Emmitsburg expected to open this year. Touted as “The World’s Safest Pool Edge,” Federal Stone’s product specifications are incorporated in all Marriott chains. The company’s Thurmont facility is covered with 160 solar panels that power their manufacturing work and provide surplus energy back to the Town of Thurmont.
Frederick CML
4626 Wedgewood Blvd
Frederick, MD 21703
The Frederick Central Manufacturing Location (CML) is a key production facility located in Frederick County and is responsible for the production and distribution of donuts for 132 Dunkin’ locations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Acting as a central hub, the Frederick CML ensures that local Dunkin stores receive fresh, highquality donuts daily. As a critical component of Dunkin’s regional supply chain, this business ensures that customers enjoy the fresh and delicious products Dunkin’ is known for, while supporting the brand’s reputation for reliability and quality. The Frederick CML is the first training facility in the United States, with the ability to train other CML employees, as well as corporate employees. In 2022, the Frederick location was named “CML of the Year” out of the nearly 100 CML locations across the country.
Galaxy Control Systems
Galaxy Control Systems designs, develops and manufactures Electronic Access Control hardware and software for the physical security industry. These products are sold in more than 84 countries. The company is credited for becoming one of the early adopters of Cloud Hosted Security Management solutions which decreases the number of deployed physical computer servers, resulting in lower energy usage. They are also at the forefront of IP- and AI-powered hardware that is designed to reduce energy consumption and decrease the carbon footprint within a building, all the while offering the highest industry standards.
Hercules Custom Iron, LLC
Hercules Custom Iron (HCI) is an affiliate company of Hercules Fence. They manufacture an array of custom products including fencing, gates, railings, arbors, trellises, architectural metals and machines. The HCI team includes certified welders, and they use a variety of materials including aluminum, stainless steel, glass, bronze, nickel and brass. HCI continues to grow, recently acquiring a new facility in Frederick that is triple the size of their former location.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 28
thetic appeal, and reduced environmental impact. SuperWood’s properties make it strong enough to replace steel and concrete, yet versatile enough for applications in structural building materials, interior design, and more.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 15
Industrial Indicators
3951 Dartmouth Court, Frederick www.smartbolts.com
Industrial Indicators manufactures SmartBolts, which are tensionindicating bolts for the global industrial market. SmartBolts were invented, developed and continue to be manufactured at the company’s facility in Frederick. Industrial Indicator’s SmartBolts feature a built-in color indicator which always shows the actual load on the fastener, with red indicating the bolt is loose and black indicating the bolt is tight. These are used in many industries globally including electrical, mining, manufacturing and power generation.
Kiosk Group, Inc.
440-A Sagner Ave., Frederick | www.kioskgroup.com
Kiosk Group manufactures interactive touchscreen kiosk hardware and software for industries including healthcare, education, government and retail. Their hardware products are shipped world-wide, and their kiosk software is available in 175 countries through Apple’s App Store. Their facility is equipped with precision CNC machining centers, industrial-grade UV printers, specialized vinyl printing and application systems, and 3D printers. This mix of technologies allows the company to maintain high quality standards while creating customized solutions that match each client’s specific needs.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 13
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 7
Kite, a Gilead Company
9021 Bennett Creek Blvd., Frederick | www.kitepharma.com
Kite, a biopharmaceutical company, manufactures CAR T-cell therapies that are an innovative treatment option used to treat certain types of blood cancers. They use state-of-the-art and proprietary technology during this highly specialized, “made-to-order” process which involves engineering a patient’s own white blood cells with a protein before the cells get reinfused back into the patient to find and target (kill) the cancer cells. Approximately 70 different people work on one single patient batch. Unlike traditional pharmaceutical manufacturing, every batch is uniquely made for each patient.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 489
Leonardo DRS
Leonardo DRS’ Signal Solutions Center of Excellence is an 85,000 square foot manufacturing space in Frederick. The employees at this site engineer and manufacture a variety of high-performance signal products including data recording systems, radio frequency (RF) tuners and receivers and more. The company develops its talent by offering programs and activities to support career growth, professional development and skill enhancement.
Lonza Walkersville, Inc.
8830 Biggs Ford Road, Walkersville bioscience.lonza.com
Linganore Winecellars
Linganore Winecellars produces handcrafted wines from their own vineyard. This family-owned winery is in its third generation of family members who have been pioneers in the Maryland wine industry. The business was established in 1976 as the first winery in Frederick County and has grown to be the largest in the state of Maryland. The winery and vineyard are located on 230 acres of picturesque countryside just outside historic New Market. The property includes a tasting room and retail store, as well as indoor and outdoor event spaces and banquet hall.
Lonza Walkersville manufactures products that provide life science researchers with tools to develop and test therapeutics, from basic research to final product release. Lonza’s Bioscience products and services range from cell culture and discovery technologies for research, to quality control tests and software for biomanufacturing. To maximize customer chances of success, Lonza has developed a series of GMP solutions for cell and gene therapy with greater process efficiency, solid regulatory expertise, and future scale-up in mind. Using TheraPEAK® Products, customers can better plan the development of their therapies, from discovery to commercialization.
Company
35 S. Carrol St., Frederick www.mcclintockdistilling.com
McClintock Distilling Company produces spirits and is the first certified organic distillery in Maryland. The award-winning distillery proudly makes everything in-house from scratch at their Downtown Frederick location. The innovative spirit of the distillery’s namesake, McClintock Young, a renowned local inventor during the 1800s, serves as an inspiration to the team. Young improved everyday tasks while maintaining quality, which is what the McClintock team strives to do. McClintock Distilling Company also operates the “Back Bar” next to their production facility where they showcase their spirits in unique cocktails.
McCormick Paints
7202 McKinney Circle, Frederick | mccormickpaints.com
Now in its 65th year, McCormick Paints is the largest family-owned paint manufacturer in the Mid-Atlantic and operates out of a 100 percent green/ zero waste facility. This Frederick business manufactures its own lines of paint products including interior and exterior paints and primers. The company offers educational opportunities to empower both employees and customers, including interactive plant tours that provide insights into the paint manufacturing process, color consultations for better design decisions and training sessions during events.
McCutcheon’s Apple Products, Inc.
13 S. Wisner St., Frederick | www.mccutcheons.com
As a Frederick staple since 1938, the McCutcheon’s factory store is a favorite stop for locals and tourists. McCutcheon’s manufactures a wide variety of food products including apple cider, apple butter, fruit preserves, BBQ sauces, pasta sauces, fruit juices, teas, juice sweetened spreads and more. The family business has deep roots in Frederick County and has been involved in many local initiatives over the years. They proudly host student interns from the Maryland School for the Deaf in their Work to Learn Program.
Moo Cow Creamery
3935 Bussard Road, Middletown | www.moocowcreameryllc.com
Moo Cow Creamery at Walnut Ridge Farm is a generational family dairy, operating in the Middletown Valley for over 85 years. What distinguishes their dairy products is the focus on A2 milk proteins. A2 milk has been shown to be more easily digestible, and Moo Cow Creamery has been working with its herd to make them A2 only—naturally. They produce A2 dairy products... milk, cheese, butter and more. They also of-
fer 25 flavors of artisan cheese, sweet cream butter, whole and chocolate milk, heavy cream, buttermilk, drinkable yogurts, and ice cream.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 9
7340 Executive Way, Suite D, Frederick www.metlfab.com
The team at Metlfab manufactures parts for the defense, aerospace, medical and firearm industries. Staffed with highly skilled and experienced mechanics, the company is a technology leader in the precision sheet metal and machining industry. Metlfab offers sheet metal, machining, laser cutting, assembly and fitting, as well as specialty services including finishing and inspection. They prioritize craftsmanship and durable solutions for their fabricated metal products that are shipped worldwide.
4612 Navistar Drive, Frederick | www.wearemoore.com
Moore operates the Moore Digital Print and Mail Center in Frederick, a high-volume print and lettershop facility where innovative mail formats meet data-driven personalization. As North America’s largest innovation-led, data-driven constituent experience management (CXM) marketing and fundraising company, they specialize in creating cutting-edge printing solutions that help the purpose-driven sector raise money to address the world’s most pressing challenges. The company is proud to work with clients across healthcare, education, association, political and commercial sectors; their clients include trusted nonprofit brands and the majority of Forbes Top 100 Charities.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 44
New Era Custom Design & Cabinet Works, Inc.
www.gonewera.com
New Era Custom Design manufactures custom commercial cabinetry and architectural millwork. The company integrates CNC technologies in their manufacturing processes to create highly detailed components that are assembled and finished by experienced craftsmen in Frederick County. They offer turnkey woodworking and metal fabrication services to industrial and commercial clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. The company’s services include custom millwork, store fixturing, custom metal fabrication, and custom moldings and finishes.
NVR, Inc. Phoenix Mecano
NVR builds and supplies components for home construction. NVR, Inc., is one of America’s leading homebuilders, and the company sells and constructs homes under the Ryan Homes, NVHomes and Heartland Homes brands. The company serves homebuyers beyond Frederick County--in 36 metropolitan areas across 16 states and has proudly helped over 555,000 families find their homes.
Quantic PMI (Planar Monolithics)
7309-A Grove Road, Frederick www.quanticpmi.com
Founded in 1989, Quantic PMI (Planar Monolithics) has an established reputation as a leading supplier of custom, high-reliability radio frequency microwave components and subsystems covering DC to 70 GHz. They deliver mission-critical applications in the aerospace, military, communications, commercial and consumer industries, built to rigorous specs. Quantic PMI continues to expand their portfolio of stateof-the-art hybrid MMIC components, modules and subsystems. They offer more than 4,500 Hi-Rel commercial off-the-shelf models with test results, S-parameters, 3D models and detailed specs available online on demand.
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With headquarters in Maryland, Phoenix Mecano manufactures enclosures, automation technology and other electrical components. Driven by megatrends, they invest in future-oriented growth markets and applications. Products include innovative drive solutions for the furniture industry, ergonomic workplace design, integrated system solutions for increasingly sophisticated industrial automation, and electrotechnical components for the reliable grid integration of renewable energy sources. Phoenix Mecano’s customized system solutions are used for leading-edge industrial human-machine interfaces, in smart home solutions, Internet of Things networks, and the digitalization of patient services and processes in hospitals.
1341 Hughes Ford Road, Suite 113A Frederick www.puertoricodistillery.com
Puerto Rico Distillery manufactures craft rum inspired by the traditions of Puerto Rico. This family-owned business specializes in sugarcane moonshine rum, known as Pitorro in Puerto Rico. Beyond its craft beverages, the distillery is deeply committed to fostering community connections and celebrating Puerto Rican heritage. Through partnerships with local organizations and cultural events, they highlight the richness of the island’s music, dance, cuisine and traditions. By combining craftsmanship with cultural advocacy, Puerto Rico Distillery has become a vital hub for cultural exchange and community building in Frederick.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 5
rfidCollect LLC
After four years in product development at the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC), rfidCollect became a resident company at the Frederick Innovation Technology Center, Inc (FITCI) to assist Frederick area manufacturers in automation technologies. rfidCollect manufactures radio-frequency identification (RFID) hardware devices, including RFID readers, Bluetooth devices, RF antennas, equipment enclosures, RFID portals, and sensor-based tags. Their catalog of data collection devices and applications are used in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, food processing, data centers, military/DoD, and many supply chains. rfidCollect’s real-time tracking solutions help automate facilities and supply chains for health, safety and regulatory compliance.
RoosterBio Inc.
5295 Westview Drive, Suite 275 Frederick www.roosterbio.com
RoosterBio manufactures critical raw materials for the development and production of cell and gene therapies which are transforming human health. Their core products include human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) banks, cell culture media for MSC expansion, and specialty media for genetic engineering and exosome production. Their products are designed for scalable manufacturing, reducing costs and making advanced therapies accessible to more patients. The team at RoosterBio actively collaborates with the Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. (FITCI) to provide advice to start-up companies in Frederick County.
Rinker Materials
Rinker Materials—Concrete Infrastructure Division, a QUIKCRETE® Company, manufactures reinforced concrete pipe and reinforced concrete box culverts at its Frederick facility. The company provides a range of infrastructure solutions, from stormwater, sanitary, bridge solutions and specialty products that offer industry-leading strength and long-term dependability. Rinker Materials is the nation’s largest manufacturer of concrete pipe, box culvert, precast and related products.
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Saputo USA
428 E Patrick St., Frederick www.saputo.com
Saputo, one of the top 10 dairy processors in the world, produces, markets and distributes a wide array of dairy products including cheese, fluid milk, extended shelf-life milk and cream products, cultured products, and dairy ingredients. They rank among the top three cheese producers in the U.S. and is one of the top producers of extended shelf-life and cultured dairy products. In addition to its dairy portfolio, Saputo produces and distributes a range of dairy alternative cheeses and beverages. Saputo products are sold in several countries under market-leading and private label brands.
Savage Soaps
10 E. Church Street, Frederick MD, 21701 | www.savagesoaps.com
Savage Soaps creates natural handmade olive oil soaps, salt scrubs, body butters, body sprays and facial serums. This company blends high-quality ingredients with a commitment to sustainability and individuality. Each soap is carefully crafted to ensure that it not only cleanses the skin but nourishes and revitalizes it with natural, skin-loving elements. They pride themselves on using non-toxic, cruelty-free ingredients, sourcing locally when possible, to create products that are as eco-conscious as they are effective. The products are also dermatologist recommended. The brand’s approach to soap-making involves a variety of specialty products designed for all skin types, including options for sensitive or dry skin. Savage Soaps offers a range of uniquely formulated bars that stand out for their bold scents and luxurious textures.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 5
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 138 NUMBER
ShieldCo Art
440 Sagner Ave., Suite D, Frederick | www.shieldcoart.com
ShieldCo specializes in high-end custom metal signage, crafted through their proprietary trademarked process called “Turn Your Logo into Art.” Each piece is designed using their signature layered technique to transform logos into three-dimensional works of art. With full in-house fabrication capabilities, ShieldCo offers 3D modeling, precision laser cutting, fabrication, and powder coating, ensuring every sign produced is both durable and visually captivating. They value every team member’s voice and many of their most impactful innovations originate from the production floor.
STRUCTURAL BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Structural OpCo provides complete roof truss, floor truss, and wall panel packages as well as a variety of engineered wood products. The company specializes in providing innovative and reliable structural components to meet the demands of construction projects. Their team is committed to delivering solutions that ensure strength, efficiency and seamless integration. They make strategic investments in IT systems and services to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry landscape.
Summit Anchor Company, Inc.
6836 English Muffin Way, Suite A Frederick https://www.summitanchor.com/
Summit Anchor Company manufactures safety tie-back anchors for suspended workers. The company specializes in fall protection systems and suspended maintenance equipment, installation and testing. What began as a one-man window cleaning business in 1988 has grown into a fall protection company with 24 employees. Summit Anchor’s innovative solutions are used by high-rise window cleaners and other suspended maintenance workers across the globe.
STULZ Air Technology Systems, Inc.
STULZ is a privately owned, global manufacturer of highly efficient temperature and humidity management products and solutions. STULZ engineers a full line of precision air conditioners, air handlers, ultrasonic humidifiers, desiccant dehumidifiers and custom solutions specifically for industrial, commercial and mission critical applications. From the STULZ headquarters in Frederick, the company is proud to research, design, manufacture, test, deliver and support products and solutions for mission critical applications. STULZ creates custom built solutions for specific applications by using early concepts, designing high quality precision cooling equipment, then manufacturing the equipment in the U.S.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 5
Tenth Ward Distilling Company
55 E. Patrick St., Frederick | www.tenthwarddistilling.com
Tenth Ward Distilling Company makes spirits and canned cocktails. The company manufactures on Hughes Ford Road in Frederick, while their cocktail bar and tasting room in Downtown Frederick is utilized for tastings, sales and events. The tasting room allows Tenth Ward
to sell their spirits and serve creative cocktails. With the slogan “Ward off ordinary,” they specialize in creating products with an unconventional twist. The distilling company recently purchased its own canning line and is proud to support local businesses by contract canning for those who don’t have equipment.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 28
TAMKO BUILDING PRODUCTS, LLC
TAMKO Building Products is a leading independent manufacturer of residential roofing shingles, commercial roofing, waterproofing and building products. Their continuous improvement process led to the development of innovative technologies for high-performance roofing products that provide superior extreme weather protection. TAMKO is also known for producing some of the best colors available in roofing shingles. This third generation privately owned company is celebrated its 80th anniversary, as well as 45 years of the Frederick facility.
7305 Executive Way, Frederick www.thermofisher.com
Thermo Fisher manufactures a range of cell culture media, supplements and reagents at its Frederick facility. These products are essential for cell growth and maintenance in research and bioproduction applications. This site is key for the production of biologic drugs used in the treatment of cancer, autoimmune disorders and infectious diseases, including monoclonal antibodies and other therapeutic proteins. Thermo Fisher actively supports STEM education through partnerships with local schools and educational institutions, providing resources, mentorship, and funding to encourage students to pursue careers in these fields.
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES IN FREDERICK COUNTY 815
Headquartered in Frederick, Theradaptive’s mission is focused on developing new therapies to restore quality of life to people suffering from tissue injury. This led to a transformational new technology that permits guided tissue regeneration and enables the body to overcome barriers to healing. Their lead product, OsteoAdapt™ SP, is an investigational biologic designed for patients with degenerative disc disease. It combines Theradaptive’s next-generation engineered protein AMP2™ with a synthetic bone graft.
5520 Adamstown Road, Adamstown www.trans-techinc.com
Trans-Tech designs and manufactures radiofrequency (RF) and microwave components that are integral to the technologies that connect us, safeguard us, and push the boundaries of exploration and discovery. They have been pioneers in the ceramics manufacturing industry. Trans-Tech products enable critical functions, such as wireless telecommunications, GPS navigation, commercial aviation, medical imaging, bone grafting and augmentation, and clean energy. Their defense products base is broad, including military aircraft propulsion, tactical systems and defense radar systems. TransTech’s culture and long-standing presence as a local manufacturer fosters employee loyalty, with many team members having 30-plus years of tenure.
Uncle Ralph’s Bakery
801 N. East St., Suite 5, Frederick | www.uncleralphsbakery.com
As one of the oldest bakeries in Frederick, Uncle Ralph’s Bakery began producing gourmet-level baked products in 1986. From a rented kitchen, the founders began baking cookies using family recipes. Uncle Ralph’s Cookies sold their cookies throughout Frederick County, then expanded throughout Maryland. After moving to a much large commercial space, the company’s line expanded to 60+ products. These include baked and frozen cookies, brownies, assorted pound cakes, breads, crumb cakes, and cupcakes. While Uncle Ralph’s is about 90% wholesale, the Frederick facility features a small retail storefront. New owners took over the business in 2022 and began using the tagline “It all started with a cookie” to honor the company’s origins.
United Plate Glass of Maryland LLC
1666 Bowmans Farm Road, Frederick | www.unitedplateglass.com
United Plate Glass of Maryland manufactures and distributes fabricated flat glass products. The Frederick facility is the third location in a family business that started in 1981, and it was the company’s first location to implement robots and increased automation. United Plate Glass partners with leading manufacturers of glass and glass fabrication machinery to fabricate frameless bath and shower enclosures, custom polished and beveled glass and mirrors, high performance insulating glass units, tempered and heat strengthened glass, as well as custom aluminum entrances and store fronts.
WILCOXON SENSING SYSTEMS Wright Manufacturing
Headquartered in Frederick, Wilcoxon Sensing Technologies is a high-performance vibration monitoring solutions manufacturer providing industrial and defense applications globally. Founded in 1960 by former staff members of the David Taylor Naval Research Center, and originally known as Wilcoxon Research, Inc., the company is a leader in machine vibration monitoring and underwater sensing products. Known for their reliable sensors, the company specializes in products that enable precise condition monitoring and predictive maintenance, serving industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace.
7340 Executive Way, Suite M, Frederick www.zegaz.com
ZEGAZ Instruments manufactures state-of-the-art analyzers for the natural gas industry. Their products are used to monitor natural gas quality in pipelines, refineries and storage facilities, and gasbased power plants. Their analyzers are used for measurement of hydrocarbon and/or water dew points in natural gas streams. In fact, their dew point analyzers are the only ones in the world that can distinguish between the hydrocarbon and water dew points spectroscopically. ZEGAZ prioritizes sourcing from the U.S. with a special focus on Maryland and Frederick County. They export globally and have equipment installed on six continents.
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Wright Manufacturing produces commercial lawn mowers and accessories known for their innovation, quality, and ergonomic designs. Since its inception over 40 years ago, the company has revolutionized the landscaping industry with products such as the Grass Gobbler™, a revolutionary line of stand-on mowers, and the first full size commercial autonomous mower that can operate in autonomous mode or with an operator. Wright’s engineering teams have earned over 50 U.S. patents. The company takes pride in developing talent from within and supports employees with comprehensive training programs and continuous learning opportunities.
