Blackford Capital, a private equity firm in Grand Rapids, has acquired Data Science Automation, an automation engineering services and training firm with operations in Pittsburgh and Cleveland.
The latter firm collaborates with its clients to digitally transform and automate laboratory, product, manufacturing, and test systems and applications. Terms of the were not disclosed.
DSA is the first add-on to Blackford’s PACIV Platform, announced in June 2023. PACIV, which has offices in Indianapolis; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Cork, Ireland; is a provider of industrial process automation and systems integration primarily for manufacturers in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries.
The addition of Data Science Automation expands the Platform’s North American operations, expands engineering and technology capabilities, and provides new customer opportunities globally.
“We are excited to welcome Data Science Automation as the first add-on acquisition to the PACIV industrial automation platform,” says Jeff Johnson, managing director at Blackford Capital and chairman of the board of PACIV. “This strategic acquisition brings enhanced engineering and training capabilities, a proven track record, and a team of talented professionals that complement our vision to further expand our U.S. footprint.”
Founded in 1993, DSA is a gold-tier Control Systems Integrators Association (CSIA) certified controls systems integrator with more than 30 years of experience providing automation engineering services in support of its clients. Using its electrical, mechanical, software, and systems engineering capabilities, DSA provides diversified services including measurement and automation, machine building and mechatronics, enterprise and integration, and consulting and training services to many of the world’s leading companies spanning various industries throughout North America, Europe, southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
DSA Founder and CEO Rich Brueggman, along with the rest of DSA’s employee base, will maintain their roles following the acquisition.
“Over the past three decades, our team of highly acclaimed and certified automation experts have solved over 3,000 challenges for more than 1,650 businesses worldwide, improved clients’ products and operations, and achieved ambitious and impactful automation engineering and digital transformation initiatives,” says Brueggman. “Joining Blackford’s industrial automation platform and cooperating with a seasoned team will allow us to not only enhance our market position but also accelerate our collective growth trajectory. We are confident in our combined ability to drive bigger success and provide enhanced value to our customers and partners.”
Martin Stein, founder and managing director of Blackford Capital, says: “DSA’s commitment to professionalism, operational excellence, and long-term value creation aligns with our values at Blackford Capital. The acquisition is poised to yield significant value creation, including operational efficiencies, resource optimization, and an expanded global network, and underscores Blackford Capital’s dedication to building a versatile and dynamic portfolio while generating value for all stakeholders involved. Together, we are poised to unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and deliver exceptional returns for our investors.”
