Wishing you a joyful and restful Thanksgiving! Southwest Michigan First offices will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 as we celebrate the holiday.
Good Morning, Southwest Michigan! This week in FIRST & 42, Southwest Michigan is celebrating major investments, standout leaders, and new ways to live and work in our region. American Axle & Manufacturing is committing $132.9 million to upgrade its Three Rivers plant and elevate it as a Center of Excellence; Vicksburg entrepreneur Zack Bishop of 4 Flutes Machining is named Michigan’s Emerging Leader of Manufacturing 2025; and Kalamazoo County advances $400,000 in community grants to fuel local projects and nonprofits. We also explore luxury short-term housing options in Kalamazoo and tools to help you better understand your health care costs. Plus, make plans to connect over Korean fried chicken at the Monday Midday Mixer at Dak Good on Monday, December 8, from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
ST. JOSEPH COUNTY
American Axle Invests $132.9M in Three Rivers
American Axle & Manufacturing is upgrading its Three Rivers facility and designating it as a Center of Excellence through a $132.9 million reinvestment. The project preserves high-wage union jobs and strengthens Southwest Michigan’s advanced manufacturing edge.
● A new Farrand Hall café is coming to downtown Three Rivers in February 2026 with a casual, thoughtful menu backed by the team’s popular farm-to-table philosophy.
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● On January 29, 2026, over 300 regional leaders will gather at WMU’s new Student Center for AMPLIFY, a one-day leadership experience packed with 5+ high-energy keynotes, practical tools, and meaningful networking. Early bird tickets and sponsorships are now available.
RSVP ›
Upcoming Events
MIX Innovation Celebration
Join us for the MIX Innovation Celebration, where Southwest Michigan’s design community comes together to honor standout companies, 2024 product launches, and top student innovators. Explore award-winning work, connect with creative professionals, and enjoy an evening of networking, music, food, and drinks.
List your open positions on our Jobs Board for only $50 per listing. Each post includes 60 days online plus newsletter and social promotion. It’s an easy way to connect with the region’s best talent.
denotes Southwest Michigan First event
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