Premier Technology expands into new 36,000-square-foot facility

BLACKFOOT, Idaho — A major Blackfoot nuclear manufacturing company opened a significant expansion Friday.

Premier Technology completed a new 36,000-square-foot facility through a partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).

The $14 million to $15 million project will increase the company's ability to manufacture complex components and systems.

“This facility is really going to be dedicated to nuclear work,” said Premier Technology Chief Business Officer Doug Sayer. “We've got some brand-new manufacturing equipment that is going to revolutionize manufacturing in Southeast Idaho.”

The expansion will triple the company's capacity to build nuclear gloveboxes, specialized sealed enclosures that allow technicians to safely handle hazardous materials without direct exposure. These components are used at the Idaho National Laboratory and across federal facilities nationwide.

"Not only will this equipment and facility support Premier's scope of work, but we will also be making the capacity available to support the entire supply chain," Sayer explained.

Company officials were joined by U.S. Rep. Mike Simpson and Blackfoot Mayor Scott Stufflebeam for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the site.

“This expansion is very big—not only for Blackfoot, but for Southeast Idaho, the Idaho National Laboratory, and frankly, the entire country,” Simpson said. “I'm very proud of the work they've done.”

The expansion also shows continued investment in the Eastern Idaho workforce. Premier Technology expects to create 40 to 50 new jobs while strengthening the region’s advanced manufacturing base.