Able Medical Devices

Headquartered in Marquette, Michigan, Able Medical Devices is a global company that designs and manufactures high-quality surgical implants and instruments for the orthopedic and medical device industry. 

Part of the JM Longyear family of companies, Able Medical Devices works with medical device companies to provide a full range of services, from early design and development to the final production of ready-to-use products that help improve patient care. JM Longyear is a privately held company, based in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, that invests in businesses and manages assets across industries like manufacturing, natural resources and real estate.

Since beginning operations in 2018, Able Medical Devices has experienced continued growth thanks in part to support from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Most recently, the company announced in October 2024 that it would be expanding its footprint in Marquette with the construction of a new, 30,000-square-foot manufacturing facility. Able Medical Devices celebrated the ribbon cutting for its new facility on Oct. 15, 2025, marking the latest chapter for the company in the Upper Peninsula.

“We’re deeply grateful for the MEDC’s support of our expansion in Marquette,” said Martin Deloria, VP and managing director at Able Medical Devices. “Their partnership reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful opportunities and strengthening the region’s manufacturing future.”

The expansion, which is expected to create 40 new jobs and generate nearly $13 million in capital investment, was supported by a $500,000 Michigan Business Development Program grant. The new facility will enhance operational efficiency, support future growth and better serve the Able Medical Devices team, by offering improved access for current and future employees, many of whom live in nearby communities, and providing proximity to the region’s abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.

“This new facility represents a meaningful investment in both the future of Able Medical Devices and the Marquette community,” said Steve Hicks, CEO of JM Longyear. “We’re proud to support a company that is not only advancing medical innovation but also creating high-quality jobs and opportunities right here in the Upper Peninsula.”

Michigan Celebrates Small Business Recognition

When Able Medical Devices was looking to create a stronger sales and marketing strategy to foster a better brand presence, they found support through the MEDC. The company utilized the System for Integrated Growth (SIG) via the Edward Lowe Foundation, connecting with business experts with extensive experience in sales and marketing who were able to identify areas for growth.

“The System for Integrated Growth platform is about helping companies that are in a second-stage growth opportunity in the state of Michigan,” said Adam Paltzer, Vice President of Operations for Able Medical Devices. “They help support our growth potential and how to overcome gaps to grow even faster.”

Able Medical Devices’ leadership used the Edward Lowe Foundation to get connected with a social media professional to guide their online presence, along with building a strong connection with a former CEO who provided priceless guidance.

Networking is a critical component of the company’s business success within the medical device industry. While the Upper Peninsula is a more remote area of the state, Able’s representatives are ready to hit the road and attend trade shows and other national events to make those connections. Paltzer shared that many great business contacts have come through Able’s work with MEDC, and they look forward to continuing those relationships through their trade show visits.

In 2022, Able Medical Devices was recognized as one of Michigan 50 Companies to Watch from the Michigan Celebrates Small Business awards.

“We’re super excited to be recognized by Michigan Celebrates Small Business,” said Paltzer at the time of the announcement. “We feel like we’re growing fast and making a change, especially being from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan working in the fast-paced medical device market. This is a high-tech, fast-growing industry.”

With Able Medical Devices’ latest investment and expansion in Marquette, the company will continue to make waves in the medical device industry right from the Upper Peninsula.

The Edward Lowe Foundation supports second-stage businesses through entrepreneur support organizations. The System for Integrated Growth is made available to second-stage companies through organizations and government agencies in their communities. Visit to learn where the program is offered.