Rockwell Automation to Build Wisconsin Factory in $2 Billion U.S. Expansion

Wisconsin industrial automation technology giant Rockwell Automation recently announced plans to build a new greenfield manufacturing site in Southeastern Wisconsin, as part of a broader effort to expand its U.S. production and digital capabilities. The project is part of a wider, two-billion-dollar investment aimed at strengthening Rockwell’s U.S. operations.

“Designing a new facility presents the opportunity to create the future of industrial operations, with highly orchestrated production,” said Blake Moret, chairman and CEO at Rockwell Automation. “We are expanding our U.S. manufacturing footprint with advanced production capability that supports growth and performance with the latest Rockwell technologies and solutions.”

According to Rockwell, it will be their largest manufacturing campus in the world, spanning over 1 million square feet. “It will integrate the latest in Rockwell’s production technologies, including AI and analytics tools, to increase efficiency and precision, while providing team members with access to advanced tools and training…” Bob Buttermore, chief supply chain officer at Rockwell Automation added in the announcement. “This investment reflects our confidence in our teams that deliver excellence every day.”

This expansion comes alongside Rockwell Automation’s recent advancements in autonomous mobile robotics (AMRs). The company recently began assembling its OTTO 600 and OTTO 1200 AMRs at a dedicated twenty-five-thousand-square-foot space within its Milwaukee global headquarters. Robert Buttermore, senior vice president and Chief Supply Chain Officer, Rockwell Automation said “the expansion strengthens our portfolio of advanced material handling solutions and underscores Rockwell’s leadership as the largest industrial automation company building AMRs in the U.S., It’s also a showcase for our customers, demonstrating how seamlessly and safely these technologies can transform their operations."

Rockwell has not yet released additional details on hiring, construction timelines, or the expected start of production at the new Wisconsin site. The company said that more information will be shared as the project develops.