Heil Trailer International to Expand Manufacturing Operations in McMinn County, TN
January 15, 2026 - NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Deputy Gov. and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter and Heil Trailer International officials announced today the company is expanding its manufacturing operations in Athens, Tennessee.
Heil Trailer will create 18 new jobs and invest $9.8 million following the securement of a 10-year U.S. Department of the Army contract for the company’s Tactical Fuel Distribution System (TFDS). The project comprises the construction of new warehousing space, state-of-the-art automated paint and welding systems that will create new opportunities for automation technicians, new testing area and an expanded welding and training school.
Founded in 1901 as the Heil Rail Joint Welding Company, the company is now part of the EnTrans International family of brands, with operations spanning two continents, facilities in four countries and more than 1,850 employees serving customers in over 85 countries worldwide. The Athens facility has been home to Heil Trailer since 1977 and will celebrate its 50th anniversary in Tennessee next year.
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“Today’s announcement further underscores why Tennessee is leading the nation as the best place to live, work and raise a family, thanks to companies like Heil Trailer that continue to invest and grow in our state. I look forward to this company’s continued success and the lasting impact this project will have on our Southeast region.” – Gov. Bill Lee
“When companies choose to stay and expand in Tennessee, it’s a strong endorsement of our skilled workforce and pro-business climate. This expansion reflects the momentum we’re building across the state and the confidence employers have in our ability to support their long-term success. We appreciate Heil Trailer’s continued investment and stand ready to support the company’s continued growth.” – Deputy Gov. and TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter
“EnTrans proudly supports Heil Trailer’s TFDS manufacturing program, a milestone initiative that underscores both the strength of our partnership with the U.S. Army and our long-standing commitment to Athens, Tennessee. The support we have received from the city, county and the state for this important program exemplifies the pro-business environment we’ve grown accustomed to here. The TFDS program represents a monumental win for Heil Trailer, EnTrans and the Athens community, aligning directly with the Army’s Transformation Initiative to deliver critical capabilities to soldiers rapidly, at scale and affordably. In support of this mission, Heil Trailer is expanding its Athens facility to ensure TFDS orders are produced on time and on budget.” – Ryan Rockafellow, CEO, EnTrans International
“Heil Trailer produces approximately 50% of all tankers in the U.S., which means McMinn County’s excellence and craftmanship are on display throughout the nation. I’m proud Heil Trailer has made yet another investment in our workforce and will continue its presence in our community that has existed for 48 years.” – McMinn County Mayor John Gentry
“Heil Trailer’s continued investment in Athens and McMinn County is a testament to the strength of our community and the partnerships that drive economic growth. Investments like this not only create jobs but also reaffirm that Athens is a place where businesses can thrive. We are committed to supporting companies that choose to grow here because every investment strengthens our local economy and enhances the quality of life for our residents.” – Athens Mayor Larry Eaton
“TVA and the Athens Utility Board congratulate Heil Trailer on its plans to expand operations in McMinn County. We are proud to partner with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development and the McMinn Economic Development Authority in our shared commitment to fostering economic growth in the region and to support companies like Heil Trailer in its continued business success.” – Heidi Smith, vice president of economic development, TVA
“Heil Trailer’s decision to grow in McMinn County speaks volumes about the strength of our workforce and the quality of our business climate. This investment will support good-paying jobs and reinforce the manufacturing foundation that keeps our region competitive. We’re grateful for their continued commitment to Athens and to Tennessee.” – Sen. Adam Lowe (R-Calhoun)
“This announcement is a testament to the strength of Tennessee’s business-friendly climate. Heil Trailer International is an industry leader and a vital partner in the Volunteer State’s booming automotive and transportation sectors. I’m thrilled the company has chosen to continue investing in our community, creating new jobs and further strengthening our local economy.” – Rep. Mark Cochran (R-Englewood)
About Heil Trailer International
Established in 1901, Heil Trailer International is a leading global manufacturer of durable, specialty transport trailers, recognized for enduring performance, premium quality and long-term value. The company designs and builds tank and specialty trailers for petroleum, dry bulk, stainless, crude, asphalt, oilfield, construction, platform, towing, defense and other specialized applications, engineered to meet the most stringent region- and load-specific requirements. Serving customers in more than 85 countries, Heil Trailer is backed by industry-leading service, a nationwide dealer network, and a solutions-driven team, earning the trust of customers worldwide for reliability, longevity, resale value, and consistent premium performance. Heil Trailer is a part of the Engineered Transportation International (“EnTrans”) family of brands that provides innovative transportation engineered solutions to meet customer challenges. EnTrans is owned by TerraVest Industries Inc. and headquartered in Athens, Tennessee.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD)
TNECD is the state’s primary agency committed to fostering economic growth through job creation and community development. By attracting new corporate investment and facilitating the growth of existing businesses, the department works to strengthen Tennessee’s competitive landscape. Additionally, TNECD strives to increase the economic prosperity for all Tennesseans by providing grants to communities statewide, helping them to become vibrant, business-friendly environments where companies can flourish. For more information, visit us at tnecd.com. Join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.