Waukesha-based Husco International, an engine parts supplier, is planning a major expansion that will help the company launch new automotive programs and create new jobs.
The company announced last week it will invest $20 million into its Waukesha headquarters at 2239 Pewaukee Road. The investment includes modernization of 15,000 square feet of manufacturing space along with several highly automated assembly lines.
Parts in the plan
New products that will be manufactured by Husco include key components for cylinder deactivation, variable engine oil pumps and advanced transmission systems used in automotive powertrain applications.
The new programs will create approximately 30 new direct manufacturing and office positions in Waukesha, according to a news release from the company.
"Husco is a tremendous asset to the city of Waukesha," Mayor Shawn Reilly said. "It employs more than 400 skilled people with great jobs and great wages. Having Husco announce that it will be improving its facility and hire more workers is wonderful news for Waukesha."
Husco supplies components for vehicle makers, including Ford Motor Co., and also develops and manufactures hydraulic and electro-hydraulic controls for off-highway and automotive applications.
"Car buyers are looking for improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing horsepower and torque, and they want it for a reasonable price," Husco Chief Executive Officer Austin Ramirez said in a statement. "Husco's automotive products help make this possible."
The announcement comes just two years after Husco International launched a $45 million expansion that went toward equipment and assembly lines at the company's plants in Waukesha and Whitewater.
Headquartered in Waukesha, Husco has manufacturing locations in China, India and England, and three locations in the Midwest.
Reilly said despite General Electric announcing it is eliminating 350 jobs at its Waukesha Power and Water facility over the next two to three years, he remains optimistic about manufacturing jobs here.
"It is my hope that the number of new skilled labor positions available in Waukesha continues to increase so that at the time the GE Power and Water positions are finally eliminated, there will be an actual increase in good paying skilled labor positions in Waukesha," Reilly said.
Noted achievements
Recently, Husco was honored for its continued growth. In May, the company was recognized with a top supplier award from Ford Motor Co. in May.
"Husco's recognition as being at the top of this already exceptional group of automotive suppliers puts us among the best-of-the-best in this industry," said Todd Zakreski, president of Husco's Automotive Division.
Husco also received the 2014 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year award by the Wisconsin Manufacturers Commerce. According to the Wisconsin Manufacturers Commerce, Husco has tripled its global sales and grew its earnings by more than seven times in the last five years.
The company was also honored for providing more than $7 million in 2014 to nonprofits and has established an extensive co-op and internship program that provides employment and development opportunities for approximately 50 college level students per year, primarily in engineering and technical fields.
Husco also partners with local high schools and technical colleges to provide internship opportunities for an additional six to 10 students per year.