Dacon Corporation has completed a 135,000 SF new headquarters for Edwards Vacuum, a designer and manufacturer of advanced technology parts used in the semiconductor, power, renewable energy, scientific R&D markets, analytical instrument manufacturers, chemical and food processing industries. Their portfolio spans parts for vacuum and abatement; this location is dedicated to cryopump manufacturing for semiconductor and technical industries.

The design of this 2-story LEED facility centers on 4 functional domains – manufacturing, labs, offices and warehousing, “The objective was to create a state-of-the-art, innovation and solutions center that improved the overall efficiency of assembly, research & development, new product introductions and related operations activities,” said John O’Sullivan, General Manager of Edwards Vacuum.  In consideration of renewable energies, some of the location’s LEED initiatives include provisions for a future solar setup, reduced water usage, high efficiency cooling systems, EV parking and dark sky compliant lighting.  Additionally, pathways for walking and biking will connect the campus to the existing city recreational trail system.  

To mark the event, a $10,000 digital arts program was donated by Edwards and Dacon to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill (BGC). Open since 1900, this civic organization feeds, teaches and raises more than 250 children every day.  Most notably, during the pandemic, BGC provided 20,000 meals and remote learning to 125 students who had no other options.  The new Edwards Digital Arts Studio is centered on engaging teens while developing technical skills and encouraging career aspirations.  Established within BGC’s current facility, the program will be led by a graphic design educator, with teens supplied with MacBooks, drawing implements and bean bag furniture to create a casual learning space of warmth and inclusion, “We are grateful to Dacon & Edwards for playing a pivotal role in our efforts to provide quality programs that focus on future career interest opportunities. This program will complement our current STEAM program offering and bolster our teen recruitment efforts,” comments Javier Bristol, Executive Director, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill.  Adds Lauren Nowicki, Chief Communications Officer, Dacon Corporation, “BGC plays an integral yet often overlooked role in facilitating productive and safe communities.  Their members receive consistent education, encouragement and guidance that navigates them successfully through young adulthood. This is our first Designed with Dignity program tailored to providing teens with technical skills for life.” Dacon’s philanthropy, Designed with Dignity, seeks to acknowledge, encourage and highlight the work of local nonprofits that create a measurable difference. To date, 16,470 lives have been enhanced by these programs.

Enrollment is on a rotational basis in tandem with curriculum goals and capacity. This program fosters camaraderie and character building. It inspires talent, stimulating creative and analytical capabilities, while introducing Edwards Vacuum to the community.  The facility currently has 180 teen members.  Notes Congresswoman Lori Trahan, “I am thrilled to welcome Edwards Vacuum to the Third District. I’m confident that their commitment to community and environmental stewardship will make them an excellent addition to our district. Edwards is not only expanding our technical and manufacturing sector, but they have proved themselves to be excellent community partners with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill where they already helped strengthen the STEM literacy and digital skills of our students.”

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