ROCHELLE — U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood toured Zekelman Industries in Rochelle Wednesday, meeting with Chairman and CEO Barry Zekelman to discuss domestic manufacturing, trade, skilled labor and the growing demand for steel conduit. Zekelman said the Rochelle facility has about 380 employees and has received more than $250 million in investment since the company purchased the property in 2019. The facility produces about 3,500 to 3,700 tons of conduit each week as demand continues to grow, including demand tied to data centers and other infrastructure projects.
“We have really unlimited demand right now. We cannot make enough product,” Zekelman said.
The two also discussed the need for workers with mechanical, electrical, maintenance and other technical skills as manufacturers face a shortage of skilled labor. Trade policy and the importance of domestic steel production were also discussed, along with the growing need for electricity and infrastructure to support data centers. LaHood said the United States faces growing competition from China in technology and manufacturing.
“China has a plan to replace the United States. And they’re working at it every day,” LaHood said.
LaHood also said the United States needs to remain competitive in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and advanced chip manufacturing. Zekelman said the company is using automation and artificial intelligence to improve production, equipment performance and worker safety. The visit also included conversations with employees about their jobs, wages and opportunities to build careers in manufacturing.
