MI2's Newest Members

We are thrilled to introduce six new members to the ranks of the Metals Innovation Initiative! As we start our second fiscal year, we are excited to have a host of new members to join MI2 and begin collaborating on our industry-wide innovation work. These forward-thinking companies bring experience and a shared commitment to our vision of making Kentucky the preeminent destination for metals innovation.

MI2 cannot achieve its mission without the deep collaboration of Kentucky metals companies and innovative technology companies doing work relevant to the metals industry. We extend our gratitude to all members for their ongoing dedication and commitment of time, resources, and funding to our strategic focus areas.

[Image: Bilstein]

Bilstein Cold Rolled Steel

Bilstein Group, a German family business founded in 1911, is a leading global producer of high-performance cold-rolled steel. With a focus on precision and advanced manufacturing processes, Bilstein has expanded globally and established a significant presence in North America, supplying cold-rolled steel for over 25 years. To meet the growing demand and exacting standards in the U.S. market, Bilstein Group invested in a new production site in Bowling Green, starting operations in 2017. This strategic move positions Bilstein as a reliable partner for automotive suppliers worldwide.

[Image: Blastics]

Blastics

The paint and coating removal industry faces challenges from harmful chemicals, often barred from entering the US. Traditionally, companies shipped products overseas for stripping or risked damage through sandblasting. Blastics—based in Georgetown--aims to revolutionize this process by providing a safer, more efficient paint removal solution. Their mission is to minimize environmental impact and enhance results, transforming practices from suppliers to waste removal.

[Image: KTI]

Kentucky Thermal Institute

With more than 12 years in the professional inspection industry, founder John Harnage realized the importance of thermal imaging to conduct a full and conclusive non-destructive inspection. The Kentucky Thermal Institute—based in Bowling Green at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus HQ--was founded to offer others the opportunity to grow their business and become a part of this explosive industry of thermography. The institute brings years of experience from within the science of thermography to the public in an easy-to-understand training format and provides industrial consulting and analysis services as well.

[Image: Recyera]

Recyera

Recyera stands at the forefront of innovation in the metals recycling and recovery sector, revolutionizing the industry with cutting-edge technologies. Their expertise spans the entire spectrum, from theoretical concepts to pilot-scale implementations, with a strong focus on seamlessly transitioning technologies from the laboratory to commercialization. They proudly offer a comprehensive range of technical and engineering services to their clients, including recycling solutions, process development, techno-economic analysis, consulting, and workforce development. Their commitment at Recyera goes beyond mere services; they are dedicated to empowering their clients to achieve true sustainable development in the recycling and metal recovery domains, ultimately enhancing profitability. By leveraging their in-depth knowledge, they guide clients towards economic and environmentally sustainable practices in support of the circular economy.

[Image: Southern Coil Solutions]

Southern Coil Solutions

This highly advanced aluminum and steel storage facility in Bowling Green, KY, sets a new industry standard, blending cutting-edge technology with unmatched expertise. They’ve successfully integrated innovation and operational efficiency, backed by top-tier security systems. Whether it's Automotive Exposed, Food Grade, Battery Steel, or other critical metals, their tailor-made storage solutions, paired with advanced building automation, ensure quick retrieval of valuable materials.

[Image: Transmission]

Transmission

Transmission—headquartered in Bowling Green at the Western Kentucky University Innovation Campus HQ--is dedicated to transforming the manufacturing industry through enhanced communication and content to create safer and more engaged factories. Recognizing the importance of safety culture and effective communication, their digital signage goes beyond a mere screen—it's a dynamic tool managed by their expert team. Real-time communication is crucial in manufacturing. The company’s Check-In Kiosk ensures safety orientation completion and emergency accessibility, while screens throughout the facility deliver important messages for safety, HR programs, and other needs. Transmission alleviates manufacturers' burdens by fully managing their digital signage, understanding the challenges they face in today's world.