Nestled in the heart of Jackson County, Penn Aluminum stands as a pillar of industrial innovation and community engagement. Since its founding in 1923, the company has grown into one of the largest aluminum extrusion manufacturers in the United States. Located in Murphysboro IL, Penn Aluminum specializes in precision-drawn aluminum tubing and custom shapes, serving industries ranging from transportation and HVAC to specialty markets that demand high-tolerance, engineered solutions.
Penn Aluminum’s Murphysboro facility employs 275 people, making it one of the area’s largest private employers. The company’s hiring process is structured and consistent, with interviews held on the first Tuesday of every month. This regular cadence reflects Penn Aluminum’s commitment to accessibility and transparency in recruitment, ensuring that local talent has ongoing opportunities to join a thriving industrial team. The majority of its workforce hails from the surrounding community, and the company takes pride in reinvesting locally—not just through employment, but through meaningful civic involvement. From sponsoring the Murphysboro Apple Festival Parade to supporting 724 Ministries and organizing seasonal drives for the Murphysboro Food Pantry and Angel Tree, Penn Aluminum exemplifies what it means to be a corporate citizen.
Their commitment to community extends to partnerships with local businesses such as Holiday Inn and regional machine shops. These collaborations not only support the local economy but also reflect Penn Aluminum’s belief in shared growth and mutual success. The company’s leadership emphasizes employee engagement, frontline development, and a culture of respect and recognition. Offering flexible schedules and competitive benefits, Penn Aluminum fosters a workplace that values both innovation and inclusion.
Strategically, Penn Aluminum has remained competitive by investing in automation and continuously refining its manufacturing processes. Their proprietary alloys and thermal management expertise allow them to deliver consistent quality with short lead times—an edge that keeps them ahead of larger competitors. This focus on precision and adaptability has earned them a reputation for excellence across the aluminum industry.
The company’s leadership also recognizes the unique quality of life in Southern Illinois. With access to the Shawnee National Forest, scenic lakes, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere, Jackson County IL offers a lifestyle that’s increasingly attractive to those seeking refuge from urban sprawl. Penn Aluminum sees this as an opportunity—not only to attract talent but to contribute to a thriving, sustainable community.
For aspiring entrepreneurs in Jackson County, Penn Aluminum offers a compelling blueprint: build strong relationships, invest in people, and stay rooted in the community. Their journey from a response to 1960s market demand to a national leader in aluminum extrusion is a testament to what’s possible when business and community grow together.