Astraeus is a Michigan-based partnership formed by Dowding Industries and MAG Industrial Automation Systems. It combines a skilled workforce in machining technologies, with one of the largest machine tool manufacturers in the world having specific expertise in carbon fiber aerospace applications and metal removal techniques. The combined effort utilizes the expertise in machine tool design and implementation and the skilled operation of large machines. This new venture has already generated interest from around the world in its game changing technologies. MAG is already offering automation equipment currently used in wind blade finishing processes (trimming, sanding, polishing, painting, coating). Astraeus has identified some of the major problems with wind turbine components and is designing and manufacturing solutions to the significant problems that currently impede wind as an energy source. Astraeus is developing new technologies that will automate blade manufacturing processes utilizing carbon fiber and other composite materials for blades and spar caps. These new solutions will make wind energy less expensive to generate, and will create components such as blades that outlast anything currently on the market worldwide.

In April 2010, the State of Michigan designated Astraeus as a Center of Energy Excellence focused on the automated manufacturing of wind turbine blade components using advanced materials. Under this program, Astraeus works cooperatively with Dow Chemical Co. and Oakridge National Laboratory to develop new technologies for use in wind component manufacturing. Additional details about the COEE program can be found in this fact sheet.

Dowding Industries Inc. and Dowding Machining

Dowding Machining is a precision machine solutions provider for large components and
is an affiliate of Dowding Industries Inc., a woman-owned manufacturer of progressive die stampings, metal fabrications, and welded assemblies. Located just south of Lansing, Mich. in Eaton Rapids, Dowding Industries was founded in 1965. For the better part of 44 years, Dowding Industries has enjoyed a solid business as a manufacturer of progressive die stampings, metal fabrications and welded assemblies.

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MAG Industrial Automation Systems

MAG is a leading machine tool and systems company serving the durable-goods industry worldwide with complete manufacturing solutions. MAG offers a comprehensive line of equipment and technologies including process development, automated assembly, turning, milling, automotive powertrain production, composites processing, maintenance, automation and software, and core components. Key industrial markets served by these technologies include aerospace, automotive and truck, heavy equipment, oil and gas, rail, solar energy, wind turbine production and general machining.

With manufacturing and support operations strategically located worldwide, MAG ranks as a leader in the capital equipment market. A growing number of leading international companies are relying on the impressive innovation power of MAG to assure their technological leadership and prepare for future challenges.

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Oak Ridge National Laboratory

One of the world’s premier centers for research and development on energy Oak Ridge National Laboratory is a Center for Energy Excellence partner with Astraeus

Oak Ridge is a multi-program science and technology laboratory managed for the U.S. Department of Energy by UT-Battelle, LLC.The laboratory was created in 1942 with a collection of scientists brought together from every cor­ner of America. While the new generation of scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory represents more than 80 countries, they remain heirs to a great history. More than six decades later, they continue a rich tradition of scientific exploration in the service of humankind.

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Dow Chemical Co.

Dow Chemical Co. is a Center of Energy Excellence partner with Astraeus, focusing on the automated manufacturing of wind turbine blade components using advanced materials.

Dow combines the power of science and technology with the “Human Element” to passionately innovate what is essential to human progress. The Company connects chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help address many of the world's most challenging problems such as the need for clean water, renewable energy generation and conservation, and increasing agricultural productivity. Dow's diversified industry-leading portfolio of specialty chemical, advanced materials, agrosciences and plastics businesses delivers a broad range of technology-based products and solutions to customers in approximately 160 countries and in high growth sectors such as electronics, water, energy, coatings and agriculture. In 2009, Dow had annual sales of $45 billion and employed approximately 52,000 people worldwide. The Company's more than 5,000 products are manufactured at 214 sites in 37 countries across the globe.

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Roger Cope, Chairman

Roger W. Cope brings his extensive experience launching and growing international manufacturing operations to Astraeus as chairman.

Roger has built his career starting new companies or leading turnarounds. He’s experienced in building strong management teams despite challenging situations and has served as president of companies with revenues ranging from $10 million to $1.8 billion. He has been responsible for all major company functions, including marketing, research and development, strategic planning and business management.

In addition to his role at Astraeus, Roger is president of the Strategic Business Development Group of MAG Industrial Automation Systems, a leading machine tool and systems company serving the durable-goods industry worldwide with complete manufacturing solutions. Roger has led a variety of MAG’s U.S. and international operations since he joined the company in 2005 with its acquisition of Cincinnati Lamb.

Roger has extensive military service, accounting for five years of active duty as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and five years of service as a captain in the California Air National Guard. Roger earned a bachelor’s degree in business and MBA in finance from the University of Southern California.

Roger is married and has two children.

Jeff Metts, President

Jeff Metts is President of Astraeus and a pioneer in Michigan’s renewable energy frontier.

Since 2007, Jeff also has served as President of Astraeus partner Dowding Industries, a manfacturer in Eaton Rapids, Mich., that specializes in heavy equipment, rail, automotive and wind energy components. Jeff’s passion and drive moved Dowding toward renewable energy. In 2007, he oversaw the design and development of Dowding’s newest facility for wind power components, which is located next to the company’s Eaton County headquarters.

Jeff is considered a leading advocate and strong ally within the renewable energy community. He has appeared at several conferences across the nation speaking as a knowledgeable proponent of renewable energy, as well as in promotional videos. He has also testified in front of numerous congressional committees on the issue. In recognition of his dedication and role as an active leader, he was awarded the Business Leadership Award by the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association.

In January 2010, Gov. Jennifer Graholm appointed Jeff to the Executive Committee and Corporate Board of the Michigan Economic Development Corp. Jeff also serves as a member of the governor’s Green Energy Task Force.

Jeff began his career with Dowding Industries in 1997 as a Sales Representative. His responsibilities quickly expanded to include growing Dowding Industries’ customer base, resulting in tripling sales for the company. He has also served as the Plant Operations Manager and Vice President of Operations, before stepping into his current role as President and Principal Partner. The company has a multitude of capabilities including stampings, large sheet metal fabrications and large scale precision machining. Capital Area Michigan Works named Dowding an Employer of the Year in 2008.

Jeff has a passion for flying and is an accomplished pilot. He is married and has three children and eight grandchildren.