#United States #DENSO #Battle Creek #housing fund

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan Celebrates 40 Years

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan, Inc. (DMMI) celebrated a remarkable milestone of 40 years in Battle Creek with an impressive donation of $250,000 to the local housing fund. This generous contribution emphasizes the company's ongoing dedication to the community that has been its home since 1986.

The recent anniversary event saw participation from notable figures, including Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, U.S. Representative Bill Huizenga, and key executives from DENSO. The gathering recognized four decades of manufacturing excellence and the strong partnerships DENSO has nurtured within the Battle Creek community.

DENSO plays a vital role as a leading mobility supplier, committed to building a greener and safer world through its innovative products. The housing fund, managed in partnership by the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the City of Battle Creek, and Battle Creek Unlimited, focuses on supporting affordable housing options. This fund aims to address the critical shortage of available homes in the region, aspiring to build or rehabilitate 1,000 homes by the year 2035.

The Growth of DENSO Manufacturing Michigan

DMMI has transformed significantly since its inception on July 1, 1986. Initially designed to employ around 200 individuals, it has blossomed into Calhoun County’s largest employer, with over 2,000 team members working in a sprawling 1.38 million-square-foot facility. DMMI produces advanced automotive thermal technologies for various car manufacturers across North America.

The 40th anniversary was marked by a ceremonial event where DMMI President Shuichi "Shu" Kamakura, along with DENSO North America CEO Tomoyuki "Tom" Arakawa, reflected on the company’s journey. Governor Whitmer and Mayor Mark Behnke added their voices, reinforcing the importance of DENSO's presence in the community.

"Reaching 40 years is an incredible milestone for DENSO Manufacturing Michigan and a testament to the dedication of generations of team members who have helped build our success," Kamakura expressed. "We are deeply grateful to our teams, customers, and community partners for their trust and support through the past four decades. We make today’s donation to show this appreciation and to contribute to affordable housing locally – an important need for Battle Creek."

Commitment to Innovation and Community

DENSO’s role in Michigan’s manufacturing landscape has never been more crucial. In 2023, the state supported the company’s $63 million investment aimed at retrofitting production areas to accommodate the manufacture of advanced thermal technologies for the next generation of electrified vehicles. The installation of a new production line at DMMI signifies the company’s adaptation to meet evolving customer needs in an increasingly electrified automotive market.

Governor Whitmer stated, "Michigan is proud to celebrate 40 years of partnership with DENSO. DMMI supports over 2,000 good-paying jobs, produces cutting-edge technology, and is a cornerstone of Battle Creek. Together, we are building the future of the auto industry right here in Michigan."

A Look Back at DMMI's Milestones

Over its 40-year history, DMMI has achieved numerous significant milestones, including:

• - 1986: Production begins at DMMI.
• - 1991: Named one of IndustryWeek's Top 10 Manufacturing Plants in America.
• - 1993: Recipient of Chrysler's Pentastar Award.
• - 2019: Opening of the North America Technical Training Center.

Beyond its manufacturing excellence, DMMI has actively participated in community development through educational partnerships, charitable initiatives, and workforce development programs.

Looking Ahead

While celebrating its rich history, DMMI is poised for the future. With a focus on advanced manufacturing, innovative thermal technologies, and workforce development, DMMI will continue playing a crucial role in shaping the future of mobility while supporting the communities it serves.

About DENSO

DENSO, headquartered in Kariya, Japan, is a leading mobility supplier with a rich portfolio of advanced technologies and components for vehicles. Globally, it employs around 155,000 individuals in approximately 170 facilities, underscoring its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. In North America alone, DENSO employs over 23,000 team members across more than 40 sites, contributing significantly to the region's industrial landscape.

For more information about DENSO’s impact and its future plans in North America, visit their website at DENSO.