Waddell, Arizona, January 28, 2026
Electric Research and Manufacturing Cooperative, Inc. (ERMCO) is launching a new manufacturing facility in Waddell, Arizona, expected to create over 500 jobs. This facility will enhance Arizona’s reputation as a center for advanced manufacturing and energy innovation, with operations set to begin in 2027. The strategic location and capital investment of $91 million will support not only local economic growth but also contribute to the resilience of the energy grid nationwide.
Waddell, AZ – A significant development is unfolding in Waddell, a growing community approximately 30 miles west of Phoenix, as Electric Research and Manufacturing Cooperative, Inc. (ERMCO) establishes a new, expansive manufacturing facility. This strategic investment is poised to inject vitality into the local economy, bringing with it a substantial number of jobs and reinforcing Arizona’s position as a hub for advanced manufacturing and energy innovation. The arrival of such an enterprise underscores the positive impact of a robust business environment, attracting leading companies that contribute to sustained economic growth and community prosperity.
The decision by ERMCO, a prominent manufacturer of distribution transformers, to expand its operations to Maricopa County marks its first manufacturing venture west of the Mississippi River. This move highlights the appeal of the Arizona AZ entrepreneurs and the broader Phoenix AZ business landscape, which offers a conducive environment for companies seeking to innovate and expand. With foundational work commencing in 2026 and operations slated for 2027, this facility is more than just a new building; it represents a commitment to the region’s workforce and its economic future.
Driving Economic Growth and Job Creation
The new ERMCO facility is expected to create more than 500 direct jobs within the local community, encompassing roles in engineering, skilled trades, and operational support. This influx of high-quality employment opportunities represents a tangible benefit for families and individuals, fostering personal achievement and offering long-term career paths. Such private sector investment is a powerful catalyst for economic development, empowering residents and strengthening the fabric of local communities. The expansion demonstrates the potential for Phoenix small business and manufacturing sectors to thrive when supported by a favorable economic climate.
Located at Building A, 15784 West Hatcher Road in Waddell, the facility will span an impressive 566,121 square feet, including 4,070 square feet dedicated to office space. This scale of development reflects a significant investment in infrastructure and a long-term vision for the region. ERMCO’s commitment to this project underscores confidence in Arizona’s economic trajectory and its capacity to support large-scale industrial operations.
Strategic Advantages of an Arizona Location
ERMCO’s choice of Waddell, Arizona, was driven by several strategic advantages that align with themes of limited regulation and a pro-business approach. Arizona offers a strong business climate, a skilled labor market, and advantageous proximity to key customer regions across the Western U.S. These factors enable companies like ERMCO to operate more efficiently, reduce transportation times and costs, and deliver products more effectively to utilities, thereby strengthening the power grid for future generations. The state’s appeal to such a crucial industry highlights the benefits of fostering an environment where enterprises can flourish without undue impediments.
The new facility is specifically designed to expand ERMCO’s production capabilities for three-phase distribution transformers. These transformers are essential components for reliable power distribution and are critical in meeting the rising demand for electricity driven by urbanization, industrialization, and grid modernization initiatives Nationwide. Furthermore, the facility will contribute to addressing the current distribution transformer shortage Nationwide. The ability of private enterprises to respond to such crucial market needs is a testament to entrepreneurial innovation and adaptability.
Enhancing the Energy Grid and Supporting Technology
The demand for distribution transformers is increasing due to the urgent need to replace aging infrastructure, some of which is decades old, to improve grid reliability and mitigate outage risks across the United States. ERMCO’s expansion directly supports these efforts by boosting the capacity for producing these vital components. This not only enhances energy stability but also contributes to the resilience of essential infrastructure that powers homes and businesses. The project’s contribution to strengthening the electrical grid is a significant benefit for both local and broader energy security Nationwide.
Beyond traditional energy needs, ERMCO’s new facility in Waddell is also positioned to support Arizona’s burgeoning technology industry, particularly the semiconductor and data center sectors. The products manufactured at this site could directly supply power to major chip manufacturing giants, further integrating Arizona into the high-tech supply chain and contributing to the Arizona AZ entrepreneurs ecosystem. This strategic alignment demonstrates how foundational industries can interlock with cutting-edge technology, driving diverse economic growth.
Private Investment and Community Partnerships
The establishment of this facility involved a substantial investment of $91 million for the industrial property alone. This significant capital deployment by ERMCO, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Arkansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., exemplifies the power of private investment in driving economic development. The new location is part of the Virgin Industrial Park, a campus co-developed by IndiCap and Invesco Real Estate, showcasing successful public-private sector collaboration in creating robust industrial infrastructure.
Such projects go beyond mere commercial transactions; they create a ripple effect throughout the local economy. The demand for local services, suppliers, and ancillary businesses grows, fostering a thriving environment for Phoenix small business ventures and generating additional employment opportunities. The collaborative spirit between industry, developers, and local government highlights how aligned interests can lead to significant community benefits and sustainable economic expansion.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Economic Horizon
The arrival of ERMCO’s manufacturing facility in Waddell is a powerful testament to the resilience and dynamism of the Phoenix AZ business environment. By attracting major manufacturers and fostering a climate ripe for private investment and entrepreneurial innovation, Arizona continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for business growth and job creation. This venture ensures that the region is not only meeting current demands but is also strategically positioned for future prosperity and technological advancement.
We encourage readers to stay informed about these developments and to support the businesses and initiatives that contribute to our shared economic future. The continued success of companies like ERMCO in Arizona is a collective triumph, reflecting the spirit of hard work, innovation, and strategic vision that defines our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ERMCO bringing to Waddell, Arizona?
ERMCO is establishing a new manufacturing facility in Waddell, Arizona.
How many jobs will the new ERMCO facility create?
The new ERMCO facility is expected to create more than 500 jobs.
What types of jobs will be available at the ERMCO facility?
The facility will offer long-term opportunities in engineering, skilled trades, and operational support.
What will ERMCO manufacture at its Waddell facility?
ERMCO will expand its Three-Phase distribution transformer production capabilities at the Waddell facility.
When will the ERMCO facility in Waddell be operational?
Foundational work for the facility will begin in 2026, and it is expected to be operational in 2027.
Why did ERMCO choose Arizona for its expansion?
ERMCO chose Arizona due to its strong business climate, skilled labor market, and proximity to key customer regions in the Western U.S., as well as its ability to support grid modernization and address growing power demands.
What is the size of the new ERMCO manufacturing facility?
The new facility will span 566,121 square feet, including 4,070 square feet for office space.
Key Features of ERMCO’s New Waddell Facility
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Company | Electric Research and Manufacturing Cooperative, Inc. (ERMCO) |
| Location | Waddell, Maricopa County, Arizona (approximately 30 miles west of Phoenix) |
| Facility Size | 566,121 square feet, including 4,070 square feet for office space |
| Jobs Created | More than 500 new jobs (engineering, skilled trades, operational support) |
| Products Manufactured | Three-Phase distribution transformers |
| Operational Timeline | Foundational work beginning in 2026, operational in 2027 |
| Strategic Significance | First ERMCO manufacturing expansion west of the Mississippi River |
| Economic Impact | Strengthens energy grid Nationwide, supports technology and chip manufacturing ecosystem |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
