The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) brought its "2026 NAM State of Manufacturing Tour" to Komatsu's South Harbor (Milwaukee) manufacturing facility highlighting "the vital role that manufacturing plays in supporting the nation's economy."
The manufacturing operation at this facility primarily serves the mining industry, while the adjoining office building serves as one of the manufacturer's two North American headquarters for staff serving construction, mining and forestry interests.
It also serves as a brand experience center where visitors can explore everything from Komatsu's mining heritage to its "Pattern Shop" brand store that features everything from baseball hats and models to vintage P&H gear (Komatsu acquired the P&H brand as part of its 2017 acquisition of Joy Global).
The visit highlighted Komatsu's strengths as a manufacturing force in North America, and its continued investment in North American jobs and infrastructure. The equipment manufactured at South Harbor supports the production of essential minerals that power modern life, from copper used in electrical infrastructure and electric vehicles, to iron ore that forms the backbone of bridges, buildings and transportation networks.
As global demand for critical minerals increases to support energy transition, digital connectivity and infrastructure development, advanced mining technology plays a foundational role in enabling progress.
"As a stop on the NAM's State of Manufacturing Tour, this facility is a blueprint for how to highlight the strengths of manufacturing in America, while also demonstrating the real human and societal impact manufacturers have around the world," said Jay Timmons, NAM president and CEO. "Komatsu has made strong and intentional strides in growing its manufacturing and support footprint in North America, and this facility and its people are a testament to how a traditional manufacturing town like Milwaukee carries pride in U.S. manufacturing around the globe."
"The work that the NAM does in elevating the profile of the manufacturing industry in North America and advocating for our interests on every stop of this tour, is invaluable," said Rod Bull, CEO of Komatsu North America. "At Komatsu, we take pride in hard work, quality craftsmanship and the role we play in building infrastructure and communities from the ground up — we've done it for more than 100 years, and we'll keep pushing for another 100 with great partners like the NAM, our dealer network and the great people who put our equipment to work every day."
For more information, visit komatsu.com.
