The deal to purchase 60 acres of land was signed in 2015, but took five years to close given the time required for re-zoning and to secure government approval for a full facility expansion.

The new facility was formerly known as the Engineering Centre. It will enable thyssenkrupp to expand its capacity to service its own machinery as well as those of its competitors throughout Canada.

The organization has narrowed its choice of sites down to two—South Bruce and Ignace. It has secured a series of agreements with area landholders for the use of the land for investigation.

No construction plans have been announced, but the company plans to add 500 workers at its Canadian headquarters within three years.

The group’s first meeting laid the groundwork for its work going forward. It will meet quarterly to develop ideas on how to deal with racism and change the industry’s culture.