Illinois is adding to its manufacturing footprint with two investments that will total $615 million and promise to create nearly 3,800 jobs. In Will County, Hyundai Translead has expanded its planned investment to $600 million and 3,750 new full-time positions, while Italian HVAC manufacturer Aermec is investing $15 million in its first U.S. manufacturing site in DeKalb.
Hyundai Translead Ups Illinois Investment
In the largest single Illinois manufacturing job creation commitment in recent history, Hyundai Translead is expanding its planned investment in Will County to a total of 3,750 new full-time jobs and $600 million. Since announcing its decision to establish two advanced manufacturing facilities in Will County in March 2026 — investing $450 million and creating 2,500 jobs — the company has decided to add a third shift in order to meet growing demand.
“Expanding our planned investment reflects our confidence in Illinois, its workforce, and the long-term growth of our U.S. operations,” said Sean Kenney, CEO of Hyundai Translead. “This increased commitment will create more opportunities for working families, strengthen our manufacturing capabilities, and enhance our ability to serve customers. We appreciate the continued partnership of state and local leaders in advancing this important project.”
A subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company, Hyundai Translead manufactures transportation equipment, including dry and refrigerated van trailers, flatbeds, truck bodies, and dollies. The company’s new facilities in Illinois will focus on expanding its manufacturing footprint to better serve its customers with commercial transportation products. Hyundai Translead’s two Will County facilities will bring new manufacturing operations to the former sites of Caterpillar’s heavy equipment operations and Lion Electric’s electric bus operations…