Existing Industry Growth Brings $26.2 Million Investment, 77 New Jobs
Published: 5:41 PM Thursday, September 17, 2026
VALDOSTA — The Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority (VLCDA) has announced that five local industries are set to invest $26.2 million and create 77 new jobs over the next year. These projects will focus on expanding facilities, constructing new spaces, upgrading equipment, and improving production efficiency.
The VLCDA aims to attract new businesses while supporting the growth of existing ones. Their initiatives include workforce training and investments in infrastructure, which are designed to strengthen local industries and encourage future investment.
Niki Y. Ogletree, VLCDA president and CEO, emphasized the significance of supporting local companies: “Recruiting new industries often gets the spotlight, but when a company decides to expand, it shows trust in our workforce and community.”
Leading these expansion efforts is Ace Electric, which plans to invest $20 million in a new corporate headquarters. This facility will not only consolidate administrative functions but also provide enhanced resources to support the company’s growth.
The new headquarters will feature amenities such as a gym, walking trail, outdoor areas, and a multipurpose training facility, reflecting Ace Electric’s commitment to workforce development.
Located on Inner Perimeter Road in Valdosta, this corporate office will join Ace Electric’s existing facilities, including Ace Engineering & Fabrication and Ace University, their training center.
Rob Stalvey, president of corporate support for Ace Electric, expressed pride in the company’s history: “The new corporate office marks a defining moment for us.” Founded in 1975 with just three employees, Ace Electric has grown significantly over the past 51 years.
With over 1,500 employees across multiple states, Ace Electric is involved in numerous projects and continues to be rooted in Valdosta. Stalvey stated, “Every step of this journey has been rooted here in Valdosta.”
Ogletree highlighted the importance of collaboration in economic growth, stating that teamwork between industries, local government, and educational institutions is crucial for creating an environment ripe for investment and success.
“It takes tremendous teamwork to compete for new investments and to support our existing industries,” she added. “These partnerships are essential for keeping Valdosta-Lowndes County ready for growth.”
