Copeland has completed renovations at its Vilter facility and will hold a grand opening event on May 1, 2025.
Copeland’s Vilter industrial compression solutions play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable practices by supporting the transition to low-GWP refrigerants and optimizing energy efficiency.
The $14 million investment strengthens Copeland’s innovation and sustainability efforts, and enhances both global and local impact with expanded training facilities and new opportunities for local recruitment.
Marian Zincke, vice president and general manager for Copeland’s industrial business, said the facility is more than just a building, it’s a testament to Copeland’s values of innovation and sustainability.
“With these renovations, we’re not only doubling our capacity to train customers, but also prioritizing the well-being and growth of our colleagues,” he said.
The updated 400,000-square-foot site now features 16,000 square feet of enhanced training areas and modernised spaces for collaboration.
These updates aim to educate customers on evolving industry technologies and provide knowledge and training on Copeland’s lifecycle services solutions, equipping operators with expertise to optimize their system performance and accelerate sustainability goals.
Vilter industrial compression solutions are used in application like cold storage, industrial heat pumps, district heating and renewable natural gas.
The enhanced facility also included a new cafeteria, an upgraded gym and reimagined workspaces, showcasing the company’s dedication to prioritising colleague health, well-being and productivity.
The Cudahy facility has been a fixture in the community since 1995, housing 120 manufacturing professionals and 180 operations team members, including more than 50 engineers.
The facility has achieved a 50 per cent increase in headcount since 2021 and, with its recent expansion, anticipates at least a 10 per cent rise in headcount across both salaried and hourly positions over the course of 2025.
This growth reflects increased opportunities for skilled professionals in operations, engineering, and project management, as well as essential manufacturing roles like welders, assemblers, and material handlers.
Copeland’s investment in this site underscores its confidence in the skilled workforce of Southeastern Wisconsin.
“We chose to invest in Cudahy because of the incredible talent and dedication of our people, as well as the city’s proximity to major highways and airports that provides access to a vast and skilled workforce,” Zincke added.
“This location allows us to build a thriving base of operations and logistics for our Vilter industrial business, while also serving as a magnet for the highly skilled talent critical to driving innovation and sustainable growth.”
Over 6,000 sites in North America rely on Vilter technology, backed by 88 patents, to maintain critical temperatures efficiently while driving down energy costs and meeting sustainability targets.