Woodward to expand in Illinois

Woodward Inc., an independent designer, manufacturer, and service provider of control systems for the aerospace and energy markets, has announced plans to establish a second campus in Loves Park, Ill., for its Aircraft Turbine Systems business. Initial development of the site, referred to as the Woodward Rock Cut Campus, will include about 300,000 sq. ft. of production and office facilities.

The decision was made after a yearlong investigation of alternatives to address the growth the company expects over the next decade and beyond. That growth has been stimulated by recent wins on the CFM International LEAP-X, Pratt & Whitney PurePower®, and General Electric Passport aircraft engine platforms. These awards mean that upon entry into service of the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX, Woodward parts will be onboard every narrow-body aircraft produced.

The company anticipates investing $200 million or more over the next 10 years in land, building, and equipment between its two area campuses. Its workforce is expected to double by the end of 2021.