Vertiv bets $50 million on Ohio to power AI infrastructure boom
A $50 million expansion across two Ohio sites will add 730 jobs by 2029 and boost production of advanced cooling systems for AI data centers. The investment strengthens the state’s position as a growing hub for digital infrastructure and next‑generation manufacturing.
Vertiv Holdings Co. (NYSE: VRT) is deepening its Buckeye State footprint with a $50 million investment to expand its manufacturing and headquarters operations, a move aimed at meeting surging demand for AI-ready data centers and the liquid cooling systems that keep them running.
The expansion, announced this week, is expected to create about 730 new jobs in Ohio by 2029. Roughly 210 positions will be added at Vertiv’s Westerville headquarters, while 520 will be based at its manufacturing facility in Ironton.
By the numbers
- $50 million: Total investment across both Ohio sites.
- 730: Projected new jobs by 2029.
- 45%: Expected increase in production capacity for liquid cooling and chilled-water systems in Ironton.
- Second quarter 2027: Target date for expanded Ironton operations to come online.
Why it matters
As artificial intelligence scales, next-generation GPU clusters generate heat levels that conventional air cooling can’t handle. Vertiv is positioning itself as a key supplier of the infrastructure—power, cooling, and management systems—underpinning the AI boom. The Ironton expansion will focus on high-density thermal management products essential to data-center growth.
“Ohio operations remain integral to Vertiv’s strategy,” said Chief Executive Giordano (Gio) Albertazzi. “This investment expands our manufacturing capacity and strengthens the engineering, sales, service, and logistics capabilities that support customers building the next generation of digital infrastructure.”
Background
Vertiv’s roots in Ohio trace back more than 60 years to its origins as Liebert Corp. The company now operates 14 facilities statewide. Its latest investment underscores Ohio’s growing importance in the global AI supply chain, blending the state’s manufacturing base with advanced digital infrastructure development.
Gov. Mike DeWine welcomed the investment, saying “Ohioans will be on the leading edge of Vertiv’s work to establish and strengthen the AI supply chain.”
What’s next
The Westerville expansion will enhance Vertiv’s corporate capabilities, including engineering, services, and project execution. Meanwhile, the Ironton site will undergo machinery upgrades and facility expansion to meet its 2027 operational timeline.
