ESCO Electric planning new facility at Marion’s eastern entrance

Marion-based ESCO Group is moving forward with plans for an $8.5 million facility as the company expects additional growth.

The proposed $8.5 million facility would house the company's long-standing business unit, ESCO Electric, a safety and logistics team, electrical supplies, and a prefabrication shop.

“This expansion represents more than just a new building — it’s a commitment to continued growth, innovation, and job creation in our community,” the company said in a post on its LinkedIn Profile announcing the project. “Over the next three years, we anticipate remarkable progress and new opportunities for our team and local workforce.”

The project was announced during the State of the City luncheon hosted by Marion Mayor Nick AbouAssaly Tuesday. There are still pieces that need to be completed before construction can begin — including a finalized development agreement with the city and a job training contract with Kirkwood Community College, he noted.

The facility would create 18 new office jobs, Marion economic development officials said.

The facility would be located at the eastern gateway to the city, east of the Highway 151 and 13 intersection.

Founded in 1964 by Wayne and Shirley Engle, ESCO was a small electrical contractor that was run out of the Engle home. The employee-owned company has seen huge growth and has three business units: ESCO Electric, ESCO Automation, and ESCO Power. The company now serves multiple Fortune 500 companies.

In addition to their Marion headquarters, the company has operations in St. Louis, Minneapolis, Denver, Omaha and Des Moines.