For four decades, Komatsu's manufacturing plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, has been building equipment that's used on construction sites, demolition projects and infrastructure jobs across North America. 

Now, the company is celebrating another major milestone.

On July 10, Komatsu employees, customers, local leaders and community members gathered at the Chattanooga Manufacturing Operation to celebrate the facility's 40th anniversary and the production of its 60,000th excavator.

The centerpiece of the event was a specially customized PC490LC-11 excavator built for D.H. Griffin, a contractor known for demolition, environmental and infrastructure projects. The machine represents both the plant's latest achievement and its continued role in supplying heavy equipment for major projects across the region.

Visitors also got an up-close look at several machines built at the Chattanooga facility, showcasing the wide range of equipment the plant manufactures today.

Honoring the plant's history

The celebration wasn't just about the future. Employees also revealed a restored WA450-1 wheel loader, nicknamed the "Ochi Loader."

Originally built in 1988, the machine was closely connected to Shohei Ochi, the plant's first Japanese general manager. Chattanooga employees restored the loader as a tribute to the early workforce that helped establish the facility's focus on quality, safety and continuous improvement.

Four decades of growth

Komatsu opened the Chattanooga plant in 1985 as its first manufacturing facility in the United States. Since then, the operation has expanded into one of the company's key North American manufacturing hubs.

Today, the campus produces medium-size hydraulic excavators, articulated haul trucks and forestry equipment while also supporting engineering, product development and supply chain operations.

The facility has continued to grow over the years. Recent investments include expanding apprenticeship opportunities through a partnership with Chattanooga State Community College to help train the next generation of skilled workers. In 2023, the plant also resumed production of Komatsu's HM400 articulated haul trucks after manufacturing of the model had been based in Japan for more than a decade.

Looking ahead

Komatsu CEO Rod Bull said the anniversary reflects more than just production numbers.

"For 40 years, our Chattanooga plant has demonstrated what can be achieved when talented people are committed to quality, innovation and continuous improvement," Bull said. "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."

Sources: Komatsu