German Tech Company Opens U.S. Headquarters in Lewiston, Planning 500 Jobs

LEWISTOWN — Governor Greg Gianforte joined more than 100 guests Friday to celebrate the grand opening of VACOM Montana, marking the German semiconductor technology company’s establishment of its U.S. headquarters in central Montana.

The $10 million facility represents the initial phase of VACOM’s broader $90 million investment plan through 2030, according to the Governor’s Office. The company projects creating up to 500 jobs across Montana by the end of the decade, with the Lewistown location expected to employ up to 50 workers by 2027.

“It was just over a year and a half ago, in December of 2023, that we stood together and announced the plans for this facility,” Gianforte said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “That day, we celebrated a bold investment and a big commitment from a global company that saw something special in Central Montana.”

VACOM, founded in Germany in 1992, specializes in vacuum technology for the semiconductor industry. The family-owned business currently employs approximately 400 people and opened its first U.S. location in Naples, Florida, in 2020.

The Lewistown facility combines high-tech cleaning and logistics operations under one roof and completed its first production order this week, according to the Governor’s Office. The company manufactures vacuum mechanics, electrical feedthroughs, vacuum measurement technology, vacuum optics and high-purity parts cleaning technology.

CEO Jens Bergner emphasized Montana’s business environment as a key factor in the company’s decision to establish its headquarters in the state.

“Our decision for Montana was an easy one: not only have we found a business-friendly environment here, but above all exceptional people with an impressive work ethic and a strong community,” Bergner said in his remarks to the gathering.

The grand opening attracted notable political figures, including former Montana Senator Dan Bartel, who attended in person, and current Senator Steve Daines, who delivered congratulations via video message.

Gianforte highlighted the investment as part of Montana’s broader economic growth under his administration’s pro-business policies.

“When companies choose Montana, they’re choosing more than just a place on a map, they’re choosing a state and a pro-business environment that supports job creators and the hardworking Montanans they employ,” the governor said.

According to the Governor’s Office, Montana currently ranks among the top five states for low unemployment rates. The state has seen wage growth outpace inflation over the past four years, making it one of only two states nationally to achieve this economic milestone.

The governor’s office noted that more Montanans are working than ever before, crediting pro-jobs policies including the largest income tax cut in state history and regulatory reforms implemented during Gianforte’s tenure.

VACOM’s expansion to Montana reflects growing demand from the U.S. semiconductor industry, which the company aims to serve more effectively through its centralized American operations.

“With this new location, we are sending a clear signal for long-term growth and transatlantic cooperation,” Bergner said.