VanTran Transformers, a leading manufacturer of oil filled transformers will expand manufacturing capabilities in Waco, Texas. VanTran, who has operated in Waco since 1974, was recently acquired by MGM Transformers, headquartered in California and operating since 1974. Following this acquisition, the company has embarked on a large expansion in Waco including an additional 430,000 square-foot manufacturing facility. The project will add up to 700 jobs over the next 5 years, bring new investment to the region, and will retain the company’s existing presence and 198 workforce in Waco.
“We are excited for this new expansion in the City of Waco,” said Doug Banty, CEO of MGM Transformers. “This partnership between our business and the City of Waco will bring more jobs to the community and gives VanTran and MGM Transformers the opportunity for further growth. We would like to thank the Waco City Council, McLennan County Commissioners, the Waco Chamber of Commerce, and everyone else who helped facilitate this expansion.”
This project represents a capital investment of more than $20 million. Construction at the new site has commenced and production is anticipated by Q1 of 2025.
“MGM Transformers’ selection of Waco as a base from which to expand current operations, enhance production lines, retain and increase its workforce and infuse new capital into the local economy is a testament to Waco’s commitment to a vibrant environment for its residents and its workforce,” said Waco Mayor Jim Holmes. “We value new businesses coming to Waco, as well as the existing businesses that have made this a great place to live and work. For 50 years, VanTran has been an excellent corporate citizen, and we look forward to MGM being a part of the Waco community.”
“As the demand for electricity increases, so does the need for updating and expanding delivery infrastructure. The work being performed by VanTran and MGM Transformers is critical to Texas and the US electrical grid systems, and we are pleased to celebrate their growth in Waco,” said McLennan County Judge Scott Felton. “Their decision to expand in Waco and McLennan County continues to reinforce the investments we have made in economic development and throughout the community to attract high quality jobs, grow a skilled workforce and expand the tax base in order to enhance the quality of life for our citizens.”
The company has requested support from the local community, which will be considered by public officials in the near future. Support could include a phase in of property taxes and a grant through the Waco-McLennan County Economic Development Corporation to assist in offsetting a portion of expenses associated with establishing a new operation in Waco.
About MGM Transformers
Founded in 1974, MGM Transformers is one of the largest distribution transformer manufacturers in North America. The company serves a wide-variety of industries including Data Center, Grid, Manufacturing, and C&I by offering a full range of transformers, from 10kVA low-voltage to 10MVA medium-voltage units in both dry and liquid configurations. With dedicated engineering and cutting-edge manufacturing facilities across Mexico, Texas and California, MGM Transformers ensures high-quality, customized products with the industry’s fastest lead times. To learn more, visit www.mgmtransformer.com.
About Greater Waco:
Greater Waco, located in McLennan County, Texas, along the Interstate 35 corridor is home to more than 14,000 companies, 272,000 people and a regional workforce of approximately 330,000. Greater Waco’s centralized location, with access to Dallas and Austin (90 miles) and Houston and San Antonio (185 miles), makes it a regional center of economic activity and an ideal community for businesses and individuals.
Since 2006, Greater Waco has seen more than $5 billion in new industrial capital investments and over $1 billion in riverfront and downtown development, making it an attractive place to live, work and play. Greater Waco is landscaped with top-rated higher educational institutions, including Baylor University, McLennan Community College, Texas State Technical College – Waco, Tarleton State University – Waco and Texas Tech University at Waco, representing more than 40,000 students.
The Greater Waco Chamber leads economic development efforts for the area focusing on talent development and targeting six key industries for growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace and Defense, Health Care, Innovation, Professional and Financial Services and Supply Chain Management.
For more information, visit WacoChamber.com.