Modine Presence Grows Again Company Relocating Heating HQ Here
Modine Manufacturing is continuing to expand its presence in the Rockbridge area.
The company announced last week that it is relocating the headquarters for its heating business to Buena Vista, where it is investing $19.6 million and creating 57 new jobs.
This latest investment, according to a press release from Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s office, “will fund a combination of warehouse, office and testing facility construction as well as new machinery and equipment transfers to support growth in Modine’s heating business.”
Modine is a Racine, Wisconsin-based manufacturer that produces thermal management solutions for various applications, including heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) products like unit heaters and chillers. It has plants in Buena Vista and Rockbridge County that employ nearly 600 workers locally.
The company has had a plant at 1221 Magnolia Ave. in Buena Vista since 1963 and opened up a manufacturing facility at 360 Collierstown Road in Rockbridge County in 2021. Last year the company acquired the former Rea Magnet Wire plant building on 10th Street in Buena Vista. This building has been undergoing refurbishment since then and is being used primarily for warehousing.
The heating business headquarters is being relocated from Modine’s company headquarters in Wisconsin to the company’s Buena Vista plant building on Magnolia Avenue.
“Modine’s decision to relocate their heating division to Virginia is a powerful testament to what is possible when we foster an environment where businesses and families can thrive,” said Youngkin in the press release. “With deep roots in Buena Vista, Modine is a trusted leader in the Shenandoah Valley and a valued partner in driving economic opportunity across the region. Together, we’re building a stronger, more prosperous future for all Virginians.”
“Modine’s continued growth and investment are a tremendous vote of confidence in Buena Vista,” said Mayor Tyson Cooper. “For more than 60 years, our community and Modine have shared a strong, productive partnership that has benefited both the company and our community. Their decision to locate the heating division’s headquarters here, and to further expand operations, underscores Modine’s long-term commitment to Buena Vista and highlights the supportive environment we work hard to provide. We look forward to building on this valued relationship for years to come.”
“With this expansion from Modine, things are really heating up in the city of Buena Vista,” said Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura. “Investments like this, especially from a business that has called Virginia home for decades, shows that there is no better place than Virginia to grow a manufacturing business. As demand for thermal management technology rises, Modine and the commonwealth are rising to the challenge.”
“Modine is proud of our long partnership with the city of Buena Vista, having operated our manufacturing facility here for more than 60 years. We are excited to build on that legacy with this new investment in our operations and testing facilities,” said Modine Heating General Manager Matt Niebur. “We are grateful for the strong partnership and support we have received from local and state authorities. Their collaboration has been essential for our continued growth and success in Virginia.”
“Modine’s ongoing investment is a powerful testament to the resilience and dedication of both the company and the city of Buena Vista,” said Shenandoah Valley Partnership Executive Director Jay A. Langston. “The company has consistently invested in the city, creating new jobs and economic growth. Simultaneously, the city has proactively listened to its existing businesses, facilitating an excellent climate that benefits both parties. We are thrilled that the Buena Vista facility will additionally become the headquarters of its heating division.”
“Congratulations to Modine on another significant investment in our region,” said Del. Terry Austin. “Just over a year ago, Modine announced an $18.1 million expansion in Rockbridge County that created more than 200 new jobs. Today’s $19.6 million expansion in Buena Vista, including 57 new positions and the relocation of the company’s heating division headquarters from Wisconsin, further demonstrates their long-term commitment to Virginia. Modine’s continued growth underscores the strength of our regional workforce and the pro-business environment that allows innovative manufacturers to thrive here in the Commonwealth.”
The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with the city of Buena Vista and the Shenandoah Valley Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Youngkin approved a $300,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Rockbridge County with the project.
Modine’s job creation will be supported through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program, which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens.
