Partnership-Driven Growth Brings 240 New Jobs and Energy Innovation to Boone County

On May 13, Schneider Electric marked a significant milestone this week with the groundbreaking of its $73.6 million expansion at its Columbia, Missouri, manufacturing facility. This investment brings 240 new jobs and reaffirms Missouri’s role as a leader in domestic manufacturing and energy infrastructure.

The expanded facility will boost production of industrial circuit breakers and integrate AI-enabled technology to meet growing energy demands across the country. It’s a critical piece of Schneider Electric’s broader $700 million investment in U.S. manufacturing.

The event was attended by key leaders from across sectors, including Michael Quinn of Schneider Electric, Mayor Barbara Buffaloe, Boone County Presiding Commissioner Kip Kendrick, Lori Becklenberg from the Missouri Department of Economic Development, and Governor Mike Kehoe.

“Today marks not just the start of construction, but the beginning of an even stronger future for Schneider Electric in Columbia,” said Michael Quinn, VP for Schneider Electric.

Each speaker's comments shared a common theme: economic success happens when public and private partners align behind a shared vision.

Mayor Buffaloe emphasized how investments ripple across the region:

“When companies invest here, it’s because they want to be here and partner with our community. The investment from Schneider supports public safety, infrastructure, education—the things that keep our city strong.”

Commissioner Kendrick echoed that sentiment, noting,

“We win when we work together, and we can make strong economic achievements when we are on the same page.”

Lori Becklenberg, Missouri Department of Economic Development, highlighted the value of alignment across agencies and partners:

“When DED aligns our resources and partners streamline our efforts and share a common vision, we create an environment where businesses don’t just grow—they thrive.”

Governor Kehoe captured the broader importance:

“ This investment is about more than new equipment and square footage. It's about Schneider Electric's confidence in Missouri's workforce."

The Schneider Electric expansion strengthens Missouri’s advanced manufacturing footprint and supports national infrastructure and energy priorities. It also underscores the power of coordinated economic development–where local leadership, state resources, and private-sector investment converge to build lasting opportunity.

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500 E Walnut St #102, Columbia, MO 65201

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