Shimizu North America recently joined Toyota Industries Electric Systems
North America (TIESNA), state and local leaders, and project partners to celebrate the grand opening of TIESNA’s new 200,000-square-foot automotive electronics manufacturing facility in Pendergrass, Georgia. The award-winning facility manufactures DC-DC converters for electric and hybrid vehicles, expanding TIESNA’s automotive electronics manufacturing operations in Georgia while contributing to continued investment and job growth in the state.

The grand opening brought together government, business and community leaders, including Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson, who recognized TIESNA for its participation in Georgia Quick Start, a workforce development program that provides customized training for jobs created through new and expanding businesses in the state.

Georgia First Lady Marty Kemp and Terry Bell, Senior Advisor for Economic Affairs at the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta, also joined the celebration. Traditional Japanese dance performances marked the occasion and reflected the strong business and cultural ties between Georgia and Japan.

Building with the Environment in Mind

As design-builder for the project, Shimizu worked closely with TIESNA to deliver a modern manufacturing facility while addressing significant environmental considerations on the site. Two wetlands within the project area required the team to redesign the building footprint to protect the sensitive areas while meeting the facility’s operational requirements. The team also designed and installed a complex underground drainage system to protect nearby state waters.

These environmental requirements affected the construction schedule, requiring the project team to adapt its approach to maintain progress. Staggered concrete placement and 4D scheduling helped recover schedule impacts and more efficiently coordinate construction activities.

Throughout design and construction, Shimizu leveraged building information modeling (BIM), drones and project management technology to enhance coordination, monitor progress and address challenges as they arose.

“We are proud to have partnered with TIESNA to bring this important facility to life,” said Shimizu North America President and CEO Andrew Pendlington. “From protecting sensitive environmental areas to adapting the construction approach to maintain the schedule, our teams worked closely together to find solutions that met TIESNA’s operational needs while delivering the project safely and responsibly. We appreciate the trust TIESNA placed in Shimizu and the opportunity to help turn its vision for this facility into a reality.”

Safety and Environmental Performance

Safety remained a priority from groundbreaking through completion. The project was delivered with zero recordable injuries, reflecting the team’s commitment to maintaining a safe work environment while navigating complex construction and environmental requirements.

The facility also achieved exceptional environmental compliance, demonstrating how careful planning, technical expertise and close coordination can meet manufacturing needs while protecting surrounding natural resources.

The grand opening marks the completion of a significant manufacturing project for TIESNA and the culmination of close collaboration among TIESNA, Shimizu and the many partners involved in its design and construction. The new facility strengthens TIESNA’s manufacturing presence in Georgia and adds to the state’s growing advanced manufacturing sector.