Anniston, AL — Community leaders, industry partners, and employees gathered this week to celebrate a major milestone in Anniston’s industrial landscape as Tyler Union unveiled its newly completed $27 million expansion. At the center of the celebration was Congressman Mike Rogers, representing Alabama’s 3rd District, whose remarks underscored the importance of domestic manufacturing and the resilience of the local workforce.
The event, held at College Union’s Anniston operations, drew attention to the facility’s significant upgrades—including a state-of-the-art induction melting furnace, advanced environmental control systems, and a 3D sand printer—all designed to meet the growing demand for large castings in the nation’s waterworks infrastructure.
Congressman Rogers, a sixth-generation East Alabamian who grew up in nearby Blue Mountain, praised the McWane family and Tyler Union for their long-standing commitment to the area. “Most people don’t know this town was founded because of the pipe industry,” Rogers said. “McWane didn’t have to stay here. When many companies were pressured to move overseas, they chose to stay, to fight, and to compete. And now, with the world realizing the need to bring manufacturing back to the U.S., companies like McWane already have the advantage because they never left.”
Rogers noted that the expansion reflects a broader national need for resilient, American-made infrastructure. “It is important that we be able to manufacture and produce in our country,” he said. “And nobody does it better than you.”
The ceremony opened with remarks from company leadership who expressed deep gratitude for the support of partners at every level. Chairman Phillip McWane emphasized the human impact of the project. “We’re investing in our team members, in Anniston, and in Alabama,” he said. “Today is a great day.”
Jon Pollard, McWane Anniston Operations Vice President, highlighted both the scope and the impact of the expansion. “This project will position us for long-term growth and diversification. We’re expecting to add up to 25 jobs over the next 12 to 18 months,” he said, noting that the Anniston operations, including Tyler Union and M&H Valve, contribute $60 million annually in wages and benefits to the local economy.
Pollard thanked key contributors to the project, including Forsyth Building Company, Seals Welding and Fabrication, Logan Construction Company, AMC Mechanical, Southeastern Crane and Hoist, Alabama Power, the City of Anniston, and others. He also acknowledged the dedication of Tyler Union’s employees—especially members of the USW and IEM unions—whose efforts were critical to the facility’s transformation.
The program also featured Don Hopper, Executive Director of the Calhoun County Economic Development Council, who reflected on the broader impact of Tyler Union’s presence in the community. “This isn’t just about one company,” Hopper said. “It’s about workforce development, STEM education, and economic partnerships that extend across the region. Tyler Union’s $40 million in payroll and its 517 employees make a real difference in Calhoun County.”
State Senator Keith Kelley also attended the event and praised the investment as a sign of confidence in the local economy. “This expansion is more than bricks and mortar—it’s a statement that Anniston and Calhoun County are open for business and ready to grow,” said Kelley. “We’re proud to support companies like McWane and Tyler Union that create good jobs and provide real opportunity for Alabama families.”
As the event concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, the atmosphere was filled with a shared sense of pride and optimism. With the expanded foundry now fully operational, Tyler Union continues to build on a legacy that dates back decades—cementing Anniston’s role as a leader in American manufacturing.
