275 direct jobs expected as SNT establishes first U.S. consolidated plant in former Trinity Marine building

BRUSLY, La. — South Korea-based SNT Motiv and SNT Energy are investing $59.4 million to establish their first U.S. consolidated manufacturing facility in West Baton Rouge Parish, creating a domestic supply chain for components used by defense, automotive, energy and process industries nationwide.

The investment will create 275 direct new jobs, with Louisiana Economic Development estimating an additional 418 indirect jobs for a total of 693 potential positions in the Capital Region.

Parish President Jason Manola confirmed the project at Thursday's Parish Council meeting, noting the facility will be located at the end of Choctaw Road in the former Trinity Marine Products building. Manola emphasized that SNT operates as a "manufacturing and petroleum equipment supplier" rather than a petroleum plant, helping to "broaden our base here in West Baton Rouge Parish."

Strategic Location Choice

SNT will renovate the former Trinity Marine Products building in Brusly that has been vacant since 2015. The project is expected to begin operations in spring 2026.

"SNT's decision to launch its first consolidated U.S. manufacturing facility in West Baton Rouge is exactly the kind of global investment our 9×90 plan is designed to deliver," said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. "By prioritizing site readiness, talent and innovation, we are positioning Louisiana to capture projects of this caliber."

The facility will serve both SNT Motiv, which produces components for the automotive and defense industries, and SNT Energy, which manufactures equipment for petrochemical and energy sectors.

Existing Louisiana Connections

While the Brusly site represents the companies' first consolidated U.S. manufacturing facility, SNT Energy already supplies air coolers for Bechtel's work on Woodside Energy's $17.5 billion LNG project in Calcasieu Parish.

SNT Motiv will serve U.S. customers including General Motors, while SNT Energy will supply Louisiana's energy and process industries along the state's industrial corridor.

"LED played a pivotal role in our decision to set up a manufacturing facility in West Baton Rouge," said SNT Energy CEO Hyung S. Kim. "We are very excited to work more closely with world-class engineering companies and the end customer for timely and better services by bringing our world class precision specialty manufacturing capabilities to Louisiana."

Infrastructure Improvements Planned

The SNT investment will trigger significant infrastructure improvements to support the manufacturing operation and benefit area residents.

Parish President Jason Manola announced during Thursday's council meeting that the parish will coordinate with Louisiana Economic Development, Union Pacific Railroad, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, legislators and the Governor's office to upgrade access infrastructure around the Choctaw Road facility.

"I look forward to working with LED, DOTD, the railroad, the governor's office and our legislators in making improvements to Choctaw to make sure that it's a successful operation there," Manola said. He emphasized the improvements would benefit "not only for them but also for the residents back there."

The infrastructure coordination involves multiple agencies and funding sources, though specific improvement details, timelines and costs have not been disclosed. The multi-agency approach suggests the road improvements may qualify for state or federal transportation funding beyond parish resources.

Regional Economic Impact

The West Baton Rouge Chamber of Commerce emphasized the project's broader significance for regional self-sufficiency.

"We are thrilled to welcome SNT to West Baton Rouge," said Chamber Executive Director Anna Johnson. "An investment of this size into our community will not only support our local businesses and economies, but it also sets our region on the path to self-sufficiency."

The Baton Rouge Area Chamber also expressed support for the expansion into the Capital Region.

"We are delighted to welcome SNT to Louisiana's Capital Region," said President and CEO Lori Melancon. "We look forward to continuing to support SNT Energy as they establish their first U.S. manufacturing facility in West Baton Rouge."

Incentive Package and Programs

To secure the project, LED offered a competitive incentive package including comprehensive workforce development solutions through LED FastStart. The company is also expected to participate in the state's Industrial Tax Exemption and High Impact Jobs program.

Company Background

SNT Motiv operates as a leading global player in defense and automotive industries, producing motors for hybrid and electric vehicles, electronic modules, airbag systems, and suspension components for GM, Hyundai and other manufacturers. The company also supplies infantry weapons and equipment to government agencies and defense industry partners.

SNT Energy manufactures air fin coolers, surface condensers, heat recovery steam generators, and DeNox systems, supporting petrochemistry plants, petrochemical refining, gas plants, generator equipment and steel industries.

Job Opportunities

Those interested in SNT job opportunities, hiring events and news updates can register for notifications through Louisiana Economic Development's website.

The project represents a significant addition to West Baton Rouge Parish's growing industrial base, bringing advanced manufacturing capabilities and high-wage employment opportunities to the region while supporting critical infrastructure needs across multiple industries.

This story was compiled from official press releases and statements from Louisiana Economic Development, West Baton Rouge Parish government, and regional chamber organizations.