BATON ROUGE, La. — Turner Industries announced a major nuclear manufacturing expansion in Louisiana that will create 1,000 direct new jobs across new and expanded facilities in New Iberia and Port Allen, strengthening the state’s position as a growing hub for next-generation nuclear energy manufacturing.
The project was formally announced by Governor Jeff Landry during the Louisiana Nuclear Strategy & Supply Chain Summit in New Orleans. The investment supports Louisiana’s recently unveiled Nuclear Strategic Framework and aligns with rising national demand for domestic nuclear supply chain capacity.
Turner Industries plans to add 500 jobs at each facility, with average annual salaries of $77,000 — approximately 25% above the state average wage. Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will also generate 1,378 indirect jobs, bringing the total potential employment impact to 2,378 new opportunities statewide.
“Louisiana is answering the President’s call for American energy dominance,” Governor Jeff Landry said. “Turner Industries has been a cornerstone of our state’s industrial strength for decades, and this expansion puts Louisiana workers at the center of building the next generation of nuclear power. This is about good-paying jobs, American energy security and making sure the future of this industry is powered right here in Louisiana.”
The facilities in New Iberia and Port Allen will manufacture high-precision modules and nuclear-grade piping systems for advanced nuclear reactors, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and other modular power technologies being developed across the United States.
Designed to meet Nuclear Regulatory Commission standards, the project will focus on modular fabrication methods that allow major plant components to be built in controlled environments and shipped to project sites, helping reduce construction timelines and costs.
Turner Industries CEO Stephen Toups said the investment reflects the company’s long-term commitment to the future of American energy production.
“Turner Industries has a 65-year legacy of supporting the energy sector, and today we are leaning into the future of American energy independence,” Toups said. “By specializing in modular fabrication and ASME Section III certified piping, we are ensuring that much of the next wave of nuclear innovation is built in Louisiana.”
The company also expects to partner with Louisiana community colleges and workforce training providers to develop specialized nuclear manufacturing training programs.
New Iberia Facility Expands Gulf Coast Fabrication Capacity
The New Iberia site, located on 95 acres at the Port of Iberia, will serve as a major fabrication hub for large-scale industrial and nuclear modules. The facility includes 90,000 square feet of indoor fabrication space, a 420-foot dock and the ability to load modules weighing up to 6,000 tons.
Port of Iberia Executive Director Craig Romero said the original investment by Turner Industries had already signaled future growth potential for the region.
“And now comes the tremendous news of their decision to increase their activity level at our port by leaps and bounds, driving a lot of excitement throughout Louisiana,” Romero said.
Port Allen Site Builds on Longstanding Operations
The Port Allen facility, located along the Mississippi River, has been a core Turner Industries operation since 1983. The 75-acre site focuses on pipe fabrication and coating, with production capacity of up to 6,500 spools per month and direct access to barge, rail and highway transportation.
West Baton Rouge Parish President Jason Manola welcomed the continued partnership.
“We’re excited about these high-quality jobs and our continued partnership with Turner Industries. This investment strengthens our local economy and workforce,” Manola said.
Louisiana Strengthens Nuclear Supply Chain Position
Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said the expansion demonstrates how Louisiana’s industrial base can evolve to meet emerging energy demand.
“Turner Industries represents the strength of Louisiana manufacturing, and this expansion shows how our homegrown companies are evolving to meet new demand,” Bourgeois said. “By building on what we do best, Louisiana is creating new opportunities, driving innovation and growing high-quality jobs that move our economy forward.”
Founded in Baton Rouge in 1961, Turner Industries now employs more than 20,000 people nationwide and remains headquartered in Louisiana.
