Komatsu’s Tennessee manufacturing facility celebrates four decades of production, highlighting its role in supplying construction equipment for customers across North America.
To commemorate the facility’s 40th anniversary, a specially customized PC490LC-11 excavator was built for demolition, environmental and infrastructure contractor D.H. Griffin. Pictured left to right are: David Griffin Jr., President, D. H. Griffin Wrecking Co.; Hiroyuki Ogawa, Chairman of the Board, Komatsu Ltd.; Rod Bull, CEO, Komatsu North America (KNA); Steve Olson, GM, Komatsu Chattanooga Manufacturing Operation; and Walt Nichols, Vice President, KNA Manufacturing and Parts Distribution. Image courtesy of Komatsu North America.
Komatsu’s Chattanooga Manufacturing Operation has marked its 40th anniversary with the production of its 60,000th excavator, reinforcing the facility’s importance within the company’s North American manufacturing network.
Employees, customers, elected officials and community members gathered July 10 to celebrate the milestone and recognize the Chattanooga plant’s contribution to the construction equipment industry since opening in 1985.
The 60,000th machine produced at the facility was a customized PC490LC-11 hydraulic excavator built for D.H. Griffin, a contractor specializing in demolition, environmental services and infrastructure projects. The machine highlights Komatsu’s continued focus on delivering equipment designed for demanding applications.
Supporting construction and infrastructure markets
The Chattanooga facility manufactures medium-size hydraulic excavators, articulated haul trucks and forestry equipment while also supporting engineering, product development and supply chain operations throughout North America.
The plant has expanded its capabilities over four decades, including the return of production for Komatsu’s HM400 articulated haul trucks in 2023. The facility has also invested in workforce development through apprenticeship programs developed with Chattanooga State Community College.
“For 40 years, our Chattanooga plant has demonstrated what can be achieved when talented people are committed to quality, innovation and continuous improvement,” said Rod Bull, CEO of Komatsu North America. “Reaching 60,000 excavators is an incredible milestone, but what makes Chattanooga truly special is the generations of employees whose dedication has helped build Komatsu’s reputation with customers across North America.”
Manufacturing legacy continues
The anniversary celebration also included the unveiling of a restored WA450-1 wheel loader, known as the “Ochi Loader,” recognizing the employees and leaders who helped establish the facility’s culture of quality and continuous improvement.
For contractors across North America, the Chattanooga plant remains a key source of Komatsu equipment supporting construction, infrastructure and resource development projects.