Voortman Steel Expands to Monee: A Game-Changer for Local Jobs and Industry Growth
Voortman Steel, a global leader in CNC steel processing, is making a bold move by establishing its headquarters in the small village of Monee, Illinois. This decision is surprising to some, considering the company's global presence and the many international options available. Despite this, Voortman is forging ahead with a major office and manufacturing project on a 27-acre site located at 25715 S. Ridgeland Avenue in Monee. The project is already underway, with the first phase now in development.
Once completed, the facility will feature a 20,000-square-foot office area and a 90,000-square-foot manufacturing plant. This project is poised to create hundreds of jobs and positively impact Monee’s local economy. In total, Voortman’s new Monee headquarters will employ 142 people, with 80 positions in the office and 62 in the manufacturing area. According to Voortman Steel President Ben Morall, 95% of the employees will be hired locally.
Voortman Steel’s Commitment to Local Communities
The expansion will not only create jobs but also bring new economic activity to Monee. Voortman’s presence is expected to attract customers from around the world who will come to witness live machinery demonstrations and learn about the company’s latest technologies. This influx of visitors is expected to benefit local hospitality businesses, boosting tourism and local service industries.
Furthermore, the company is working closely with local educational institutions to provide technical training for future workers. Training facilities at the Monee site will require additional technical staff, offering competitive salaries and addressing the skills gap in manufacturing professions. This will provide a direct pathway for young people in the area to build careers in fields such as engineering, CNC operations, and steel fabrication.
Monee’s Role in Steel Processing and Global Supply Chain
Voortman’s steel processing operations are crucial to the construction sector. The company is heavily involved in fabricating and laser-cutting steel I-beams, which are used in everything from skyscrapers and bridges to cranes and other major construction projects. The Monee headquarters will play an integral role in this supply chain, contributing to the production of steel products that are essential for global development, particularly in emerging economies.
This move to Monee is seen as a significant milestone for Illinois, especially considering the recent struggles that many businesses have faced with relocation to other states or even overseas in search of lower operating costs. By choosing to expand in Monee, Voortman is demonstrating a long-term commitment to both the local economy and the U.S. steel industry.
A Partnership for Workforce Development
As Monee seeks to address the growing skills gap in trades, Voortman has partnered with the village and local educational institutions to foster a new generation of skilled workers. The partnership with Governors State University will create an internship program that offers hands-on experience for young people interested in manufacturing and industrial careers. This initiative will help bridge the gap left by retiring skilled professionals in fields like welding, electricians, and mechanics.
Monee Village Administrator Ruben Bautista emphasized that the Voortman Steel expansion is an important win for the community, not only for the job opportunities it will create but also for the community engagement and educational opportunities it will provide. Bautista noted the vital role Voortman plays in the global steel infrastructure, especially in the wake of geopolitical disruptions such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which affected the global steel industry.
Monee's Economic Growth and Future Prospects
The new Voortman facility is expected to be a game-changer for Monee. It will bring critical revenue to the village, stimulate the local economy, and support the growth of Illinois' manufacturing sector. The village has a long-standing partnership with Voortman Steel, and the collaboration continues to grow as Monee invests in workforce development and sustainable business practices. With construction set to be completed by January 2026, the future looks bright for Voortman’s Monee headquarters and the local community.
The Voortman Steel project is a testament to the resilience of the American steel industry, which has faced significant challenges in recent years but continues to evolve and thrive through innovation, education, and local partnerships.
Key Takeaways:
• Voortman Steel Chooses Monee: The global CNC steel processing leader, Voortman Steel, has chosen Monee, Illinois, for its new headquarters, a surprising move given the company’s international options.
• Massive Development Project: The new facility will span 27 acres and include a 20,000-square-foot office and 90,000-square-foot manufacturing plant.
• Job Creation: The headquarters will bring 142 jobs to the area, with 95% of positions expected to be filled by local hires.
• Global Impact: Voortman is a key player in the steel infrastructure supply chain, providing steel beams for skyscrapers, bridges, and construction projects worldwide.
• Partnership with Local Education: Voortman is working with local educational institutions to provide technical training for workers, addressing the growing skills gap in manufacturing.
• Economic Boost for Monee: Voortman’s expansion will bring increased economic activity and revenue to the local community, benefiting hospitality businesses and supporting workforce development.
• Sustainable Growth: Voortman’s expansion in Monee reflects a commitment to local manufacturing and sustainable growth, even amidst the challenges facing the broader steel industry.
• Internship Program: Voortman has partnered with Governors State University to create an internship program that will offer hands-on manufacturing experience to young people in the community.
