HOKE COUNTY, N.C. — Pennsylvania Transformer Technology (PTT) has begun construction on a $102.5 million distribution-transformer manufacturing plant that state and local officials say will bring more than 200 jobs and strengthen the domestic supply chain for critical electrical equipment. The 150,000-square-foot facility marks a major expansion for the company, which has operated in Hoke County for more than three decades. PTT officials said the investment positions the company at the forefront of modern transformer production as nationwide demand climbs, driven in part by renewable energy growth and the rapid build-out of AI data centers.
The company plans to deploy advanced robotics, IoT-enabled machinery and smart-factory systems designed to improve speed, precision and scalability. Real-time data analytics will support production from core cutting through final testing, enabling the company to reduce lead times and enhance product reliability. “Built on the principles of Lean Manufacturing and Industry 4.0, the factory utilizes closed loop integrations to enable a continuous two-way flow of data, allowing real-time monitoring and adjustments to operational parameters,” said Nitin Nayak, Head of Operations and Supply Chain. “This plant is designed to be the world’s smartest Distribution Transformer factory.”
An artist rendering of of the future PTT 150,000-square-foot-facility. The cost of the new pad-mount transformer plant is estimated at $102.5 million.
The facility is expected to span more than 150,000 square feet of state-of-the-art production space and will manufacture pad-mount transformers ranging from 500 to 7,500 kVA and up to 46 kV. “PTT expects the new plant to produce about 300 units monthly,” said Andre Carvalho, Vice President of the distribution transformer business unit. “This investment positions PTT at the forefront of modern transformer technology and underscores our commitment to powering communities with reliable, high-quality distribution transformers while driving the future of intelligent manufacturing.”
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein and PTT President Sandeep Chakravarty, center, stand with other dignitaries during a groundbreaking ceremony for PTT’s new Hoke County facility.
The project is expected to deliver wages well above the Hoke County average, with new positions averaging $64,949 annually. Hiring will include engineers—electrical, industrial, mechanical and quality—along with electricians, welders, assemblers, wiremen and other skilled and semi-skilled workers. “This new facility represents our commitment to American manufacturing, to the energy transition and—most importantly—to the people of Hoke County,” said PTT President Sandeep Chakravarty. “We are building not only transformers, but a stronger future for this community and for the country.”
Local leaders said the project will bring long-term economic benefits. “We appreciate Pennsylvania Transformer’s commitment to our county and the state of North Carolina,” said state Rep. Garland Pierce, D-48. “I’d like to thank them for the opportunity and their continued support of our community.” Hoke County Board of Commissioners Chairman James A. Leach said the jobs will help families stay and thrive locally. “These kinds of jobs will let citizens take care of their families right here at home,” he said. “They’ll allow us to keep our tax rates low for our seniors, build and maintain schools and help keep the community safe.
State Rep. Garland Pierce speaks from the podium during the groundbreaking event, thanking PTT for bringing jobs to Hoke County that will help local families.
To prepare local residents for the new roles, PTT partnered with Sandhills Community College on a three-year workforce development initiative. The collaboration includes a “PTT-Ready Bootcamp” that covers winding, welding, blueprint reading, technical drawings, manufacturing math and workplace safety. Graduates will earn a certification qualifying them for interviews and potential employment with PTT. Residents say the project is already lifting morale. “Times are hard and there are a lot of people around here that badly need jobs, and these are just the kind of jobs that they need,” said longtime local resident David Hardee. Stonewall Rural Volunteer Fire Department treasurer Johnny Boyles said tax revenue from the plant will help first responders improve staffing and equipment. “The additional funds will help provide incentives to new volunteers like additional safety equipment and stylized protective outerwear,” he said.
PTT currently operates a small and medium-power transformer facility in Raeford, N.C. The new plant will expand the company’s regional presence while supporting its broader goal of reinforcing U.S. energy infrastructure.
Pennsylvania Transformer Technology, LLC, a Quanta Services company, is a U.S.-owned leader in oil-filled power transformers, producing engineered units from 5 MVA to 750 MVA and up to 765 kV for electrical utilities, data centers, renewables, BESS and industrial applications. Founded in 1929, the company is headquartered in Canonsburg, Pa., and operates a one-million-square-foot manufacturing complex along with its Raeford, N.C., production facility. PTT also provides full lifecycle support, including field services, parts and technical assistance.
