Athens project tied to U.S. Army contract will add jobs, automation, and advanced production capabilities
ATHENS, Tenn. (January 15, 2026) — Heil Trailer International, a global manufacturer of specialty transport trailers, announced plans to expand its manufacturing operations in McMinn County, investing $9.8 million at its Athens, Tennessee, facility following the award of a 10-year U.S. Department of the Army contract.
The expansion will create 18 new jobs and support production of the company’s Tactical Fuel Distribution System (TFDS), a critical capability for U.S. military operations. The project includes the construction of new warehouse space, the installation of state-of-the-art automated paint and welding systems, an expanded testing area, and enhancements to Heil Trailer’s welding and training school, creating new opportunities for automation and skilled manufacturing technicians…