The Knox County Land Bank is excited to announce the sale of Plant 2 at Heartland Commerce Park and the former American National Can site to Airco, a leading company specializing in fireproof coatings for industrial steel. This expansion marks Airco's commitment to serving the growing needs of Ohio's industrial construction sector while bringing new employment opportunities to the region.
Airco, headquartered in Newnan, Georgia, has decided to expand its operations to Mount Vernon, recognizing the state's rapid growth and the increasing demand for large industrial construction services. The company's decision to expand to Ohio aligns with its strategy to better serve customers in the region while contributing to the local economy.
As an industry leader in painting and coating services, Airco's presence in Knox County is expected to benefit the community substantially. It plans to hire 200 local employees within the next three years and offer locally competitive wages. The company's expertise and commitment to quality align closely with the region's values and culture. The Knox County Land Bank has worked diligently to attract occupants to Heartland Commerce Park who complement the community's character, and Airco's arrival is a testament to those efforts.
"We are thrilled to welcome Airco to Heartland Commerce Park," said Jeff Gottke, president of the Knox County Land Bank. "Their decision to establish operations in Mount Vernon is a testament to the attractiveness of our community and its potential for economic growth. It provides quality jobs, and represents a new manufacturing sector, which will continue to diversify and stabilize the county’s economy. We are confident that Airco's presence will not only create valuable job opportunities but also contribute to the continued prosperity of Knox County."
“It is extremely exciting to have Airco become part of Heartland Commerce Park, and to acquire the former American National Can site. Any time a company chooses to locate in Knox County, it brings with it economic benefits, including jobs, and in this case, Airco is joining other companies who are helping to revitalize the former Siemens campus. I am extremely proud of the efforts of the Knox County Land Bank, its development arm CPDC and the Knox County Area Development Foundation staff in working to bring quality companies like Airco to Knox County,” said Knox County commissioner and chair of the Land Bank board of directors, Teresa Bemiller.
“The city couldn’t be happier with Airco and its team coming to Mount Vernon,” said Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr. “Fireproofing industrial steel is an industry that diversifies our manufacturing portfolio and provides additional jobs and opportunities for our community. What is even nicer is Airco is central to the city and within walking distance to many members of the potential workforce.”
Airco's expansion to Mount Vernon represents a significant milestone for both the company and the local community. With a focus on delivering high-quality services and fostering economic development, Airco is poised to become an integral part of Knox County's industrial landscape. Since taking over the former Siemens campus in 2020 and the American National Can site in 2018, it has been the goal of the Land Bank to find occupants who will integrate themselves into the community with plentiful jobs, competitive wages, and community partnerships. Airco makes the fifth occupant at Heartland Commerce Park.
“I am excited about Airco coming to Mount Vernon, and I am equally excited about the prospect of more companies locating to Heartland Park soon,” Gottke said.
For more information about Airco and its services, visit aircocorp.com/.
