CRP Automotive and CQT Weapon Systems announce major expansion projects in Washtenaw and Macomb counties
LANSING, Mich. (June 10, 2026) — Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced two business expansion projects that will generate more than $27.7 million in capital investment and create 164 new jobs in Washtenaw and Macomb counties.
The projects include an expansion by CRP Automotive in Pittsfield Township to support growing demand for advanced remanufactured automotive service parts, as well as an expansion by CQT Weapon Systems in Macomb Township to grow advanced defense manufacturing and training operations.
Together, the projects further strengthen Michigan’s position as a leading state for automotive innovation, defense manufacturing, advanced technology and high-wage job creation.
“Michigan is on the move and open for business, competing for and winning big projects in next-generation industries like defense and auto manufacturing,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Today’s announcement will create 164 new good-paying jobs and help cement Michigan as the best place to chase the next big idea. Let’s keep working together to show the world that Michigan is the best place to build the future.”
Project Highlights
The two Michigan expansion projects include:
- $27.75 million in total capital investment
- 164 new jobs across Washtenaw and Macomb counties
- Expansion of Michigan’s automotive remanufacturing and defense manufacturing sectors
- Performance-based support through the Michigan Business Development Program
- New jobs with starting wages above regional median wage levels
“The automotive and defense industries are two vital drivers to Michigan’s overall economy,” said Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President of Regional Development at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Today’s announcement expands on the state’s legacy in these industries and creates good-paying jobs. We applaud CRP Automotive and CQT Weapon Systems for their ongoing commitment to Michigan and continued successes.”
CRP Automotive Expanding in Washtenaw County
CRP Automotive will expand operations in Pittsfield Township to support rising demand for advanced remanufactured automotive service parts. The company plans to invest $4.05 million and create 28 new jobs.
As vehicle technology becomes more complex and replacement parts become more expensive, original equipment manufacturers in both light-duty and heavy-duty markets are increasingly turning to remanufactured solutions. CRP Automotive’s expansion is designed to help fill a market gap by developing remanufactured products that meet the same quality, performance and reliability standards as original new parts.
The company’s new operation will support engineering, production, testing and validation capabilities for advanced remanufactured automotive components.
“Opening this new facility is a testament to our commitment to meeting the growing need for remanufacturing of complex mechatronics,” said Dan Schildge, CEO of CRP Industries. “We chose Ann Arbor, Michigan because of its strategic location, talented workforce and supportive business community. This facility not only scales our engineering and production capabilities but also brings job opportunities to the area.”
New Automotive Jobs in Pittsfield Township
To support the project, the Michigan Strategic Fund board approved a $100,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. The project is expected to create nearly 30 jobs with starting wages of $23 per hour plus benefits, which is above the regional median wage.
“CRP Automotive’s expansion in Pittsfield Township is an exciting investment in Washtenaw County, bringing new jobs and advancing innovation in automotive remanufacturing,” said Jennifer Olmstead, Vice President of Business Development at Ann Arbor SPARK. “Ann Arbor SPARK is proud to support the company’s continued growth in our region.”
Founded in 1954 as Conti Rubber Products, Inc., CRP Automotive is a veteran-owned, family-led company that began by supplying tires to Volkswagen of America. The company has since grown into a diversified automotive replacement parts, technical fluids and components supplier. CRP is headquartered in Cranbury, New Jersey, and operates facilities in the United States and internationally, including South Carolina, Michigan and Puebla, Mexico.
CQT Weapon Systems Expanding in Macomb County
Center for Quality Training International, doing business as CQT Weapon Systems, will expand its advanced defense manufacturing and training operations in Macomb Township. The company plans to invest $23.7 million and create 136 new jobs.
The expansion will help CQT meet increasing domestic and international demand for U.S.-made weapons systems, optics integration, unmanned systems engineering and tactical training services.
The project includes the acquisition, renovation and buildout of a 24,000-square-foot facility designed to support:
- Precision machining
- Weapons assembly
- UAV engineering and production
- Optics and tactical component integration
- Technical training functions compliant with federal export regulations
“We are incredibly grateful to the MEDC for its continued support of CQT Weapon Systems and our mission to build advanced defense manufacturing capabilities here in Michigan,” said Al Dustan II, Chief Executive Officer of CQT Weapon Systems, LLC. “The resources, guidance and confidence MEDC has provided have helped accelerate our growth, expand our workforce and position our company to compete in both domestic and international defense markets.”
Dustan added that MEDC’s support has been instrumental in helping the company scale its operations, pursue long-term growth opportunities, create jobs and advance innovation.
“We are proud to call Michigan home and remain committed to investing in our people, our technology and our state’s leadership in advanced manufacturing and defense,” Dustan said.
Defense Manufacturing Investment to Create 136 Jobs
CQT Weapon Systems selected Macomb Township for the expansion over a competing location in Ohio. To secure the project in Michigan, the Michigan Strategic Fund board approved a $456,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant.
The company expects to create 136 jobs with starting wages ranging from $27.50 to $40 per hour plus benefits, exceeding the regional median wage of $24.63.
“CQT Weapon Systems’ expansion into Macomb Township is an exciting investment in our community and a strong example of the innovation and advanced manufacturing happening right here in Michigan,” said Frank J. Viviano, Macomb Township Supervisor. “We are proud to welcome CQT to Macomb Township, which will strengthen our local economy, support job creation and reinforce Macomb Township as a destination for business growth.”
Established in 2019, CQT Weapon Systems currently operates in Shelby and Macomb townships and employs 21 Michigan residents. The company specializes in the design, production and integration of advanced U.S.-made weapons systems, optics and tactical components. Its capabilities include precision machining, small arms assembly, suppressor and modular accessory development, unmanned systems engineering and export-compliant training programs for military, law enforcement and allied defense partners.
Michigan Strengthens Automotive and Defense Manufacturing Growth
Michigan continues to build on its legacy as a national leader in automotive innovation, advanced manufacturing and defense-related industries. The state remains well positioned to capture future defense investment and expand critical supply chain capabilities.
Michigan’s defense and aerospace sector contributes more than $30 billion in annual economic activity and supports more than 166,000 jobs across approximately 4,500 businesses. The industry plays a significant role in U.S. military readiness, advanced manufacturing growth and supply chain resilience.
With investments from companies like CRP Automotive and CQT Weapon Systems, Michigan continues to support high-wage job creation, small business growth and next-generation industry expansion across the state.
About the Michigan Business Development Program
Investment and job numbers represent commitments made by the businesses to the state of Michigan. Terms will be formalized in performance-based project agreements, with funds disbursed as milestones are reached. Agreements may be amended or canceled if commitments are not met due to risks or uncertainties. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation provides an annual public report on agreements and their status to the state legislature.
