A. O. Smith announced the grand opening of its new product development center in Lebanon, Tenn., a 60,000-square-foot research and development facility on the Lochinvar campus.

The new center brings together the company’s North America Water Heating commercial engineering and platform electronics functions with Lochinvar engineering to support commercial product development, including heat pump water heaters. The estimated $33 million project, which kicked off in 2023, blends a mix of new construction and existing facility renovation.

A grand opening celebration will be held for employees and key partners April 15, 2025, at the new facility. The event will kick off with a ribbon cutting, followed by executive speeches and self-guided tours. Attendees will see the facility’s environmental chambers, product engineering development lab, electronics lab and other new spaces that will house more than 120 new and existing employees with room for future growth.

“This new facility enables us to advance one of our top strategic priorities – investing in innovation and expanding our product portfolio to ensure the company’s continued growth and success,” said Kevin Wheeler, A. O. Smith chairman and CEO. “A. O. Smith remains committed to driving meaningful progress, and the work conducted at this facility will play a pivotal role in future product requirements and sustainability efforts.”

The program will feature A. O. Smith President and Chief Operating Officer Steve Shafer, Chief Technology Officer Bob Heideman, North America Water Heating President and General Manager Steve O’Brien, as well as Lochinvar President Darrell Schuh. 

“The PDC is a future-focused innovation hub that enables us to design heat pump water heaters and other sustainable products that are not only in demand now but will continue to be a major emphasis for us in the coming years,” said Heideman. “We’re excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, and we know from experience that a facility like this gives innovation a space to thrive.”