CARPENTERSVILLE – Where Business & People Prosper

Angelo Carpenter first came to what is now Carpentersville with co-founders, his father Charles and his uncle Daniel. Angelo saw opportunity everywhere and went on to map the land, gain ownership of a dam and mill, which he converted into a prosperous yarn and flannel factory. He continued to acquire factories throughout the mid-1800s and went on to serve two terms in the Illinois House of Representatives. This enterprising spirit is in our DNA and is alive and thriving today. The Village of Carpentersville continues to be a place that supports businesses of all types and one that fosters innovation and growth.

LOCATION

“Carpentersville is home to a diverse group of businesses – manufacturing, food processing, landscaping, retail, and services,” says John Skillman, Village of Carpentersville president.

One such business is world-recognized OTTO Engineering, Carpentersville largest employer, which designs and manufactures a full line of control switches and audio accessories for unique and demanding applications.

“Carpentersville has been a good location for my manufacturing business,” says Tom Roeser, president of OTTO Engineering. “It is close to transportation and we can draw employees locally, toward the City of Chicago or out into the farm areas. This creates an opportunity to find employees of many different types of skill sets.”

Platt Hill Nursery says it chose Carpentersville for its second nursery in large part because of the great location and availability of a diverse workforce.

“Our location – right in the middle of large residential and ‘horse country’ communities – puts us close to a tremendous customer base,” says Graham Hill, vice president, Platt Hill Nursery. “Plus, a very pro-business village allows us to continue expanding with support from the local community.”

WORKFORCE

A prime location isn’t the only major draw: Just as important are the people.

“We are so blessed that Carpentersville welcomed our new (to the area) business back in 2001. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to employ nearly 150 hard workers from the area, and are so thankful for each of them,” notes Mike Lookingland, vice president of production at Trim-Rite, the custom boning facility of Rantoul Foods.

Acme Industrial Company moved to Carpentersville in 1970 and enjoys the Villages’ solid workforce. Human Resources Manager Debbie Bartels says recruiting during periods of low unemployment is no easy task. “Thankfully, the labor pool in Carpentersville is strong. As a result, we are able to fill our positions, while our employees enjoy a short commute.”

Roesner agrees. “Ninety percent of my employees live within 10 miles of our business. Carpentersville is the type of community where families stay. We have many employees whose parents have worked for us. This helps to create a strong company culture.”

According to Skillman, there are many reasons why businesses relocate or choose to open in Carpentersville – sometimes it’s the availability of land or the ease of commute for their employees, or it’s because the market is perfect for their products. In all cases, it’s due to the strong employee base, support from the Village government and ability to thrive and prosper here.

For more information on working and investing in Carpentersville, contact Eric Johnson, Village Manager, 224-293-1660 or ejohnson@cville.org.