Expansion to Create 476 Jobs and Strengthen Louisiana’s Industrial Sector
GONZALES, La. – John H. Carter Co./ControlWorx LLC has announced a $69 million expansion project in Ascension Parish, featuring a 285,000-square-foot Center for Industrial Excellence. The facility will provide critical products and services to industries across Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, including oil and gas, refining, chemical production, power, renewable energy, and pulp and paper manufacturing.
The project is expected to create 175 new direct jobs over the next decade, with a projected annual payroll of $12.5 million, while retaining 741 existing jobs statewide. Additionally, Louisiana Economic Development (LED) estimates the expansion will generate 301 indirect jobs, bringing the total new job creation to 476 in the Capital Region.
Investment in Louisiana’s Future
“This investment continues John H. Carter Co.’s longstanding commitment to ensuring manufacturing and production facilities have the products and services they need to thrive in Louisiana and across the Gulf Coast,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “By modernizing a legacy industry, this facility will help Louisiana’s industrial sector operate safely and efficiently while securing its future growth.”
The facility will be located at 3088 S. Burnside Ave. in Gonzales, with construction set to begin in March 2025. Commercial operations are expected to launch in early 2027.
A Generational Investment
John H. Carter Co., a 100% employee-owned company since 1998, has been a leader in process automation since its founding in 1933. CEO Todd Gilbertson emphasized the significance of the project, calling it a “generational investment” in the company’s future.
“This new facility represents our deep commitment to the people and communities of Louisiana,” Gilbertson said. “As an employee-owned company, we are proud to continue growing right here at home and are grateful to the Louisiana Economic Development team for their invaluable support and partnership.”
Community Support and Economic Impact
Local leaders praised the company’s decision to expand in Ascension Parish, reinforcing the region’s role as a hub for industrial growth.
Gonzales Mayor Tim Riley expressed enthusiasm for the project:
“We are proud to celebrate John H. Carter Co.’s expansion into Gonzales, bringing new jobs and economic opportunity to our community. This investment highlights our talented workforce and underscores Gonzales as a place where businesses can thrive.”
Kate MacArthur, President and CEO of Ascension Economic Development Corp., called the project a “huge win” for the region:
“We are proud to have played a role in making this expansion a reality and look forward to supporting the company’s continued success.”
State Incentives and Support
To attract the project, LED offered a competitive incentives package, including:
- LED FastStart workforce development support.
- A $590,000 Economic Development Award Program grant for infrastructure improvements, pending approval by the Louisiana Economic Development Corporation board.
- Participation in the Industrial Tax Exemption and Quality Jobs programs.
Lori Melancon, President and CEO of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber, emphasized the broader impact of the expansion:
“Not only will this project bring 175 new jobs to our community, but its services and products will benefit local manufacturers and energy companies, fueling economic growth across South Louisiana.”
Hiring and Future Opportunities
John H. Carter Co./ControlWorx is already preparing for hiring and expansion. Interested candidates can register for job alerts and hiring events here.
For more details on the company’s expansion and career opportunities, visit JohnHCarter.com.