GAF Celebrates Golden Shovel Groundbreaking for State-of-the-Art Roofing Manufacturing Facility, Bringing 130+ Skilled Jobs to Newton, Kansas

GAF Celebrates Golden Shovel Groundbreaking for State-of-the-Art Roofing Manufacturing Facility, Bringing 130+ Skilled Jobs to Newton, Kansas

GAF Celebrates Golden Shovel Groundbreaking for State-of-the-Art Roofing Manufacturing Facility, Bringing 130+ Skilled Jobs to Newton, Kansas

Newton, KS (June 5, 2025) — GAF, a Standard Industries company and North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, today announced that construction has begun on its new, world-class shingle manufacturing facility in Newton, Kansas. GAF leadership, local and state officials, and members of the Newton community gathered for a ceremonial groundbreaking to mark the beginning of construction and celebrate this major investment in Kansas manufacturing and economic development.

The Newton facility represents the first ground-up development expansion of GAF’s Residential operations since 2004 and reinforces the company’s long-term investment in domestic manufacturing as well as its commitment to serving customers across the country. The facility will feature cutting-edge equipment and advanced manufacturing capabilities designed to help meet demand for GAF’s market-leading roofing products while supporting innovation for future roofing solutions.

“Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter for GAF and Newton,” said John Barkhouse, President and Incoming CEO of GAF. “Our decision to build in Kansas reflects our commitment to serving our customers nationwide and our belief in the strength and potential of this community. This facility will not only expand our ability to meet the growing needs of our customers—it also represents our long-term investment in the people and economy of Harvey County.”

The plant is expected to begin production in 2027 and reach full production capacity by mid-2029, creating more than 130 high-skilled manufacturing jobs in the region, spanning management, engineering, and operations. GAF has begun hiring for this new facility, including key leadership positions as well as salaried and hourly positions. Current and future open positions can be viewed and applied for here.

“While this site may be a field of dirt today, it will become a state-of-the-art facility, delivering essential roofing materials across the country,” said Andrew Shoults, Plant Manager of GAF Newton. “I’m grateful for the warm welcome from Newton and proud that we’ll be creating new, rewarding job opportunities and engaging deeply with the community as we grow.”

In addition to bringing jobs in a stable industry to the area, GAF is dedicated to becoming an integral part of the community and supporting Harvey County and its residents. Even before construction began, GAF  reached out to local organizations to offer its support. Most recently, GAF provided the roofing material and supported the reroof efforts of two local families in need through partnerships with Habitat for Humanity of Harvey County and Wichita Habitat for Humanity.

“We’re very excited to have GAF come to Newton and for this construction to begin,” said Newton Mayor Rich Stinnett. “This groundbreaking isn’t just about a new facility—it’s about opportunity, innovation, and shared progress. We look forward to a strong partnership for years to come.”

About GAF

GAF, a Standard Industries company, is the leading roofing and waterproofing manufacturer in North America. For more than 135 years, GAF has been trusted to protect what matters most for families, business owners and roofing professionals with its innovative solutions and focus on exceptional service. GAF’s leadership extends to its commitment to strengthen its communities and industry through investments in career development, sustainable products, and local community resilience. Learn more at www.GAF.com.

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TEAM Kansas Appreciation Event

TEAM Kansas Appreciation Event

On May 5, Jennifer Mueller, along with several regional partners, attended the Annual TEAM Kansas Appreciation event at Cedar Crest inside the Governor’s residence. Brief remarks from the Governor and Lieutenant Governor were made.

HCEDC Sponsors Signing Day

HCEDC Sponsors Signing Day

On April 29, 2025, Harvey County EDC was pleased to sponsor the area wide career and technical education recognition and Brooks Trade Center signing day. This event has grown significantly over the past several years, and this year over 180 students from Harvey County were awarded certificates!

We think it is fair to say this is a hidden gem within our community. It gives our youth the opportunity to successfully enter the workforce after high school should they choose. It also provides valuable skill sets they will carry through life.

Thank you to all of the staff and students for your dedication. Your efforts make Harvey County better!

Southern Start Hosts Open House

Southern Start Hosts Open House

On October 10th, Southern Star, located just outside Hesston, KS, hosted a community open house and tours of their state of the art training facility. Guests were able to view the training areas, classrooms, and see some of the hands-on full-scale training models at work. It was a fascinating and well-attended event. Thank you for opening your doors to us, Southern Star!

HCEDC Attends State-Wide Conference

HCEDC Attends State-Wide Conference

Harvey County EDC Staff had the privlege to attend the Kansas Economic Development Alliance’s annual conference this week. Staff attendance at these conferences is pivotal to our continued success. It was a great opportunity for continued learning, and connection with peers throughout the state. Follow us on Facebook or check out the “Latest News” section on our website to see where HCEDC will be networking next! https://harveycoedc.org/

HCEDC Hosts 2024 Annual Meeting

HCEDC Hosts 2024 Annual Meeting

The Harvey County EDC hosted their 2024 Annual Meeting on Wednesday, August 28th at the Meridian Center in Newton, KS. Author & Guest Speaker, Ross Patten, presented on economic development best practices as highlighted in his book, Economic Development is (Still) Not for Amateurs!

HCEDC Staff shared the 2024 Annual Report while attendees enjoyed connecting with each other over lunch. We were very pleased with the turnout and engagement we experienced at the event.

Senator Moran Visits Harvey County Manufacturer

Senator Moran Visits Harvey County Manufacturer

It’s a great day when Senator Moran’s office calls and asks to tour one of our manufacturers.  Thank you to Millennium Machine & Tool for hosting the Senator, and for all you do for our community.

Harvey County EDC Welcomes Visitors from GAF

Harvey County EDC Welcomes Visitors from GAF

We were so excited to welcome some guests from GAF this week. We were able to show them all the best of what Harvey County has to offer. From our wonderful medical center, to our institutes of higher education, our guests were thouroughly impressed! Thank you to all of the community and regional partners for supporting the visit. GAF is a great company and we are so excited to see them expand in Newton, Kansas.

Thank you to all of our partners:

YMCA

Bethel College

Hesston College

Hutch Community College

Brooks Trade Center

NMC Health

Newton Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Wichita Partnership

The City of Newton

WSU Tech

NIAR

Groundbreaking Ceremony Held to Welcome Hillsboro Industries

Groundbreaking Ceremony Held to Welcome Hillsboro Industries

Newton, KS – Harvey County Economic Development was excited to host a ceremonial groundbreaking at the Kansas Logistics Park for Hillsboro Industries.  On Friday, May 31st, many people gathered to celebrate the regional expansion of Hillsboro Industries into Harvey County.

In the last decade, Hillsboro Industries has nearly quadrupled business and continues to stand out in the industry for their unmatched commitment to innovative engineering and quality truck beds and trailers.  The Newton facility, which will be built on 30 acres, and create 50 new jobs in the first 5 years, will be home to the trailer side of the business, while the truck bed operation will continue in their current facility in Hillsboro, KS.

Mike Gerken, CEO of Hillsboro Industries said, “The shovel ready site, along with the deliberate and intentional housing growth and community amenities, made Newton a clear choice.  We appreciate the support we have received from the City, County and JCEDC, and look forward to becoming part of the community.”

We are thankful for our project collaborators, the City of Newton, Harvey County, and the Kansas Department of Commerce, as well as all those who attended to show their public support of growing industry in Harvey County.

“Harvey County Economic Development is dedicated to the growth and advancement of Harvey County’s economy.”