Trane - by Trane Technologies, a global climate innovator, announced plans to expand operations at its manufacturing facility in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
The expansion project supports the production of thermal management solutions and provides the opportunity to increase the full-time workforce in Fort Smith by about 20% over the next year.
"We’re excited to expand our operations in Fort Smith, strengthening our manufacturing capacity in support of our customers and their sustainable business growth," said Holly Paeper, President, Commercial HVAC Americas, Trane Technologies.
Commitment to innovation
“We appreciate the longstanding collaboration with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission, Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce, and thank the leaders of Sebastian County and the city of Fort Smith.”
“Their support has been instrumental in making this expansion a reality and underscores our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the creation of high-quality jobs within the community," concluded Holly Paeper.
“If there's one thing Arkansans can appreciate, it’s a good HVAC system in the heat of summer,” said Governor Sanders. “I am grateful for the nearly three decades Trane has invested in the people and community of Fort Smith, and I am excited about what their latest expansion means for Arkansas’ workforce and economy.”
Trane business
The facility has been an integral part of the Trane business and a member of the Fort Smith community
The facility has been an integral part of the Trane business and a member of the Fort Smith community for nearly 30 years.
The site showcases Trane’s commitment to sustainability, with upgraded HVAC, lighting and water systems to help substantially reduce energy and water usage, while creating a more comfortable, efficient environment, and eliminating wood waste to landfill in 2021.
It also has a long track record of providing a safe and uplifting work environment for its workforce. In February 2024, the facility celebrated twelve consecutive years – more than 5,000,000 hours – without a lost time safety incident and is on track to reach 6 million hours without a lost time incident by October 2025.
Fort Smith community
Trane employees continue to actively support the Fort Smith community through volunteerism
Trane employees continue to actively support the Fort Smith community through volunteerism, already more than doubling recorded volunteer hours in 2025, compared with 2024.
“Trane Technologies is an international manufacturing leader, and the company has chosen Fort Smith, Arkansas for its latest expansion. This new expansion will create more than 60 new jobs, making a significant impact on the local economy,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.
“Fort Smith has all the elements needed for business success, and we congratulate the city and its leadership on this latest win.”
Capital investment
"Trane’s capital investment and expansion in Fort Smith reinforces our city's role as a center of advanced manufacturing,” said Fort Smith Mayor George McGill.
“The addition of more than 60 new jobs reflects their confidence in our skilled workforce and our community's business-friendly environment. With nearly 300 employees already here, Trane's continued growth is a strong indicator of Fort Smith's economic momentum and industrial strength".
Industrial landscape
“Trane has long been a cornerstone of our industrial landscape, and we are grateful for their commitment to our region.”
“This exciting expansion is the direct result of a strong and seamless collaboration between Trane, the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the city of Fort Smith. It demonstrates what can be accomplished when the public and private sectors work together toward a shared vision of economic progress,” said Tim Allen, President/CEO of the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce.
