Construction is progressing rapidly at the Timet site near Ravenswood, West Virginia, heralding a new era in manufacturing for the region. Timet, an abbreviation for Titanium Metals Corporation, is in the process of establishing a plant that will utilize large furnaces for melting titanium, a material known for its lightweight yet robust properties extensively used in aerospace, defense, commercial, and medical sectors.

During a recent media event at the construction site along Route 2, just a short distance from Ravenswood, Timet’s Director of Operations, Aaron Valentine, expressed enthusiasm about the project. The company, a subsidiary of Precision Castparts Corporation associated with Berkshire Hathaway, aims to commence the titanium melting operations by the first quarter of 2025. The facility will produce titanium ingots that will be shipped to the company’s milling facility in Toronto, Ohio, for further processing into various product forms.

The 50-acre site currently showcases significant progress, with large cranes and excavated areas where concrete is being poured for the foundation of the furnace pits. Notably, Timet’s choice of Ravenswood as the location for this advanced manufacturing facility is closely tied to the Berkshire Hathaway Renewables solar energy project underway nearby. The plant will draw power from the world’s largest microgrid, marking it as the first titanium facility globally to be powered by renewable energy.

According to Timet’s HR manager, Hannah Hesson, the company is actively recruiting talent for various roles, particularly engineers and technical experts to lead the project from inception to completion. These individuals are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s future and driving innovation in the field. Additionally, there are numerous hourly positions available, offering opportunities for individuals to be part of this groundbreaking venture.