Copeland has completed a $14 million renovation of its Vilter industrial compression facility in Cudahy, Wisconsin, enhancing its manufacturing, training, and collaboration capabilities. The investment supports Copeland’s strategic focus on sustainable refrigeration by expanding training capacity and enabling further innovation in low-GWP refrigerant solutions.
The upgraded 400,000-square-foot site now includes 16,000 square feet of dedicated training space to educate customers on lifecycle service solutions and evolving technologies. Vilter-branded industrial compressors are used in applications such as cold storage, district heating, industrial heat pumps, and renewable natural gas systems. Updates also include modernized workspaces, a new cafeteria offering healthy meals, and a fully renovated gym aimed at promoting employee wellness.
The Cudahy facility, operational since 1995, currently employs 300 professionals, including over 50 engineers. Since 2021, the site has increased headcount by 50% and expects an additional 10% rise across salaried and hourly roles in 2025. This includes positions in operations, engineering, and skilled manufacturing. The investment underscores Copeland’s long-term commitment to Southeastern Wisconsin’s workforce and infrastructure.
“This state-of-the-art facility is more than just a building; it’s a testament to our values of innovation and sustainability,” said Marian Zincke, vice president and general manager for Copeland’s industrial business. “With these renovations, we’re not only doubling our capacity to train customers, but also prioritizing the well-being and growth of our colleagues.”
Copeland’s Vilter technology, supported by 88 patents, is used at over 6,000 sites across North America. The compressors help operators transition to low-GWP refrigerants and reduce energy consumption, contributing to emissions reduction goals. The Cudahy renovation strengthens Copeland’s ability to deliver these solutions at scale, reinforcing its role in the energy transition.
Copeland will celebrate the reopening of the Vilter facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and facility tour on May 1 at 1:00 p.m. CST, located at 5555 S. Packard Ave. in Cudahy.