Ann Arbor, MI -- Today, Rick Snyder's gubernatorial campaign announced the endorsement of Grand Rapids native Fred Keller, CEO and founder of Cascade Engineering. Keller cited Rick's strong record of job creation and detailed plans for Michigan's future as the reason for his endorsement.

Cascade Engineering is a multi-business manufacturer and marketer supporting multiple brands.

The company manufactures for a variety of industries including automotive, commercial truck and bus, solid waste and recycling, furniture, material handling and renewable energy. Keller was appointed chair of the United States Department of Commerce Manufacturing Council for both the Bush and Obama administrations.

“It’s pretty easy to see that Michigan needs more jobs and an aggressive plan to support business growth,” said Keller. “My interest in Rick Snyder is that I believe he sees Michigan’s talent as second to none in the world. He believes in the people of Michigan and would be an excellent spokesperson for our state nationally and internationally, not only to attract businesses but to influence policy that will help revive our economy.”

Keller believes that Snyder has unique credibility and strong contacts in a number of industries that can help the state compete and attract jobs. He sees Snyder as humble. “It is his humility that makes him approachable,” said Keller. He believes that Snyder’s style allows him to listen to all sides of an idea and engage the parties to arrive at better, more creative solutions that benefit the people of our state.

As an entrepreneur, Keller has founded and formed more than 15 businesses and knows the value of inspiring new businesses. “I think Rick Snyder is positive. He will attract strong talent to his administration to help him with strategies to get the state moving again," said Keller.

Rick Snyder welcomed Mr. Keller's endorsement and released the following statement.

"I'm proud to have the support of a fellow innovator and job creator. Fred has an extensive history of working to better our community and his support will be a valuable asset to our campaign. His support along with so many others is a clear signal that the Reinvent Michigan message is resonating across our state. I look forward to working together with community leaders and job creators such as Fred Keller to provide a better future for Michigan."

In addition to being the CEO and founder of Cascade, Keller is also active in his community as the chairman of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids, the chairman of the School to Career Progressions Board and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. He also serves as a director of Meijer. Keller has been featured in numerous trade and business publications, and currently teaches a course on sustainable business at Cornell University.

Keller's endorsement is part of the Citizens for Rick series of daily endorsements. Citizens for Rick is comprised of Michiganders from all across the state and with many different backgrounds who all share the common vision of Reinventing Michigan. The endorsements are available on the campaign website, here.