Modine will expand its Rockbridge County operation to increase capacity for production of data center cooling equipment.

RICHMOND, Va.—Modine, a diversified provider of thermal management products, will invest $18.1 million to expand its Rockbridge County operation, according to a release from the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). The expansion project will increase capacity for the production of data center cooling equipment and is expected to create more than 200 new jobs.

“Virginia continues to be the epicenter for the data center industry, which makes it the perfect location for Modine to expand manufacturing capacity,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin, in the release. “Modine’s increased production of data center cooling equipment will meet the growing demand of this vital sector in the Commonwealth while creating high-quality 21st century jobs.”

Modine, a global company headquartered in Racine, Wisconsin, provides thermal management products and systems that are said to improve air quality and conserve natural resources. Modine’s Climate Solutions and Performance Technologies segments support its purpose by improving air quality, reducing energy and water consumption, lowering harmful emissions, and enabling cleaner running vehicles and environmentally friendly refrigerants.

“Virginia is a world leader in the data center industry, and we are proud to contribute to the industry’s growth here,” said Modine General Manager for Data Centers-North America Rob Bedard, in the release. “This new investment in our Rockbridge plant shows our commitment to support the region and enhances our position to offer a full range of cooling solutions to serve North America data center customers through our Airedale by Modine brand.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Rockbridge County and the Shenandoah Valley Partnership to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $470,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Rockbridge County with this project.

Support for Modine’s job creation will be provided through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, a workforce initiative created by VEDP in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System and other higher education partners, with funding support from the Governor’s administration and the Virginia General Assembly.