Waupaca Foundry has started the final stage of a multi-year, $100 million-plus capital investment program to modernize operations, enhance worker safety and provide advanced foundry technology to meet customer needs.
The final investment phase includes a $20 million upgrade to Waupaca Foundry’s Plant 4 in Marinette, Wisconsin, featuring a complete replacement of the facility’s melt charging system. The modernization project replaces vibratory shaker equipment with advanced steel slat conveyor systems, new weigh scales and an integrated charge material drying system that feeds directly into charge buckets for the furnaces. Scheduled for completion in late January, this enhancement streamlines operations and improves efficiency at the Marinette facility.
This latest investment builds on Waupaca Foundry’s long-standing commitment to modernization and comprehensive facility enhancement improvements. Since 2016, Waupaca Foundry has invested more than $400 million in capital improvements to build and continuously enhance state-of-the-art operations. Completed enhancements include:
- Advanced safety systems – Safety PLC installations and enhanced lockout protocols across all facilities.
- Energy-Efficient technologies –Implementation of steel slat conveyors and electric charging systems to reduce environmental impact while improving operational efficiency.
- Workplace environment improvements – Enhanced air quality systems, temperature control and ergonomic automation to create more comfortable and modern work environments.
- Advanced manufacturing equipment – State-of-the-art machinery and automation technology to enhance quality, consistency and production capabilities.
These enhancements support Waupaca Foundry’s workforce of nearly 3,500 employees in Wisconsin and Indiana, with more than half of team members having more than 10 years of service with the company. Capital improvements focus on creating safer, more efficient workplaces while providing opportunities for skill development and career advancement.
Published December 2025
