Volumetric Building Companies (VBC) – the modular construction company, has marked the official opening of its Global Centre of Excellence in Co Monaghan. 

Headquartered in Philadelphia, Volumetric Building Companies is a vertically and horizontally integrated global modular construction leader, with locations across the United States and Europe.

Utilising its technology-enabled design and engineering model, precision-driven manufacturing capabilities, and project-proven modular construction expertise, the company is focused on providing high quality, sustainably produced buildings in less time across varied market sectors. 

'Huge significance'

Enterprise minister Peter Burke said: “I am delighted Volumetric Building Companies has chosen Ireland for its Global Centre of Excellence. A global leader in modular construction setting up in Monaghan is of huge significance.

"It recognises the professional talent available here and across the border region. VBC’s major investment, in areas such as off-site construction, is increasingly important, both economically and environmentally. I wish VBC and the team in Monaghan the very best for the future.”

Rural and community development minister Heather Humphreys said: “Today really is a great day of celebration as we mark the official opening of this fine facility.  As a government minister and as someone who represents the Cavan-Monaghan constituency, I’m particularly pleased that Volumetric Building Companies has chosen Co Monaghan as the location for its Global Centre of Excellence.

"I assure you, there is a wealth of talent to draw from in Monaghan and surrounding areas. Monaghan has an outstanding track record in the engineering sector and a highly educated workforce which make it an excellent location for your business.”

The Monaghan facility houses dozens of skilled product designers, engineers and architectural technicians who provide the detailed designs and models essential for VBC’s US & EU-based factories to deliver high quality modular projects across North America, Europe, the UK and the Middle East. 

“Historically there has been a lot of advanced manufacturing talent concentrated in the Monaghan area”, said VBC CEO Vaughan Buckley. “The companies and educational institutions that have supported the training of key workers in the modular construction sector have built an incredible talent pool for VBC to tap in to.

“Modular companies like VBC have an important role in complementing traditional construction in helping meet market demand now and into the future” said  Alan Fannin, building systems director 

Durable multi-storey buildings

 “In addition to its agile and adaptable approach to delivering high quality and durable multi-storey buildings, modular construction significantly reduces waste and the amount of traffic movements on site, so also has an important role to play in improving the sustainability of the construction industry.”

Demonstrating their commitment to Monaghan and indeed the northeast, VBC has recently been announced as chief sponsor of Monaghan GAA’s Centre of Excellence. “We are proud to sponsor Monaghan GAA’s own Centre of Excellence as we share a vision of helping our teams perform at the highest level,” added Buckley.

Denis Curran, head of regional enterprise development and strategic property at IDA Ireland, said: “VBC’s decision to establish its Global Centre of Excellence in Monaghan is very welcome news and speaks to the skills and talents available to IDA client companies in the northeast region. I wish to thank Vaughan Buckley and his team for the confidence they have demonstrated in Ireland and wish Alan Fannin and all at the Monaghan facility continued success.”