DEKALB – Today, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) joined Aermec North America leadership and the DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation to break ground on the Italian-based HVAC company’s first U.S. manufacturing site. The company’s $15 million investment will support the development of an over 186,000-square-foot facility and create 30 new full-time jobs in the DeKalb region. \u200b
“Aermec chose to locate its first U.S. manufacturing site right here in DeKalb, which reaffirms Illinois’ position as a top destination for manufacturers and job creators looking to do business in America,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “The company’s expansion creates good-paying jobs for working families and helps Illinois build an even stronger foundation for long-term economic development.” \u200b \u200b
Aermec North America is a leading manufacturer of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning solutions. Aermec’s expansion into Illinois is another example of the state’s position as a growing hub for advanced manufacturing and adds to a growing list of companies expanding or establishing their business in the state, including Voortman Steel Machinery, Ability Engineering Technology, Combe, Hyundai Translead, and more. \u200b \u200b
“Illinois is committed to fostering long-term economic growth by supporting industries and companies, like Aermec, that keep us competitive on a global scale,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Through initiatives like the EDGE program, we are empowering companies to invest in Illinois by creating quality jobs and strengthening our local economies.”
This expansion will allow Aermec to support the production of climate control and energy management system products. Beyond direct employment, the project is expected to generate additional economic benefits through construction activity and support for local suppliers and service providers.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for Aermec in North America,” said Luca Martini, Managing Director, Aermec North America. “For more than 20 years, Aermec has been serving customers across the U.S. and Canada. Our decision to invest in Illinois was driven by the State's outstanding support and collaboration. We are proud to begin this journey in DeKalb and excited about what we will build together with our customers, partners, employees and the local community.”
Guided by Illinois’ Economic Growth Plan, Governor Pritzker continues to build the foundation for long-term success by focusing on key growth industries including advanced manufacturing. That competitive advantage is helping attract projects like Aermec’s $15 million investment, which further solidifies the state’s role as a premier destination to locate or expand a business with its top-ranked infrastructure, access to supply chains, and skilled workforce. \u200b \u200b
“Aermec's decision to locate in DeKalb, following a competitive search that included sites across multiple states, is a tremendous vote of confidence for Illinois, DeKalb County and the City of DeKalb. DeKalb County has a strong manufacturing history, and this project builds on that legacy while creating new opportunities for our workforce,” said Melissa Amedeo, Executive Director, DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation.
This project was bolstered by the State’s Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement with Aermec, which is available here. So far in 2026, companies participating in the EDGE program have committed to creating nearly 6,000 new jobs and more than $2.6 billion in investments. \u200b \u200b
“Aermec's decision to expand in DeKalb shows how our state is competing and winning on the global stage,” said Illinois EDC President and CEO Christy George. “Manufacturers looking to grow their U.S. footprint find what they need in Illinois: a collaborative business climate, top-tier talent, world-class infrastructure, and a deep supplier network.”
October is National Manufacturing Month, and Illinois is home to 14,000 manufacturing companies that employ more than 650,000 hardworking Illinoisans – a workforce that contributes more than $132.5 billion in total annual economic output. This year, CNBC named Illinois the 12th Top State for Business in America, the highest ranking in state history.
“Aermec’s decision to open a new facility in DeKalb County is exciting news for our region and another important investment in our local economy,” said State Senator Sue Rezin. “This new facility will bring good-paying jobs and economic opportunities to the area while adding to the strong manufacturing presence that already exists across northern Illinois. I am proud to welcome Aermec to DeKalb and look forward to seeing the company be a part of our community for years to come.”
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