Gov. Pritzker cuts ribbon at Teklab’s new laboratory facility

COLLINSVILLE – Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and Teklab celebrated the company’s new environmental testing laboratory in Collinsville. Teklab constructed a 36,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility to meet the growing demand for its environmental analytical services, creating 40 new full-time jobs for the region while retaining nearly 100 positions. The company’s commitment to invest $10 million further solidifies Illinois’ role as a premier destination to locate or expand a business with its top-ranked infrastructure, access to supply chains, and skilled workforce. 

 

This announcement comes on the heels of Governor Pritzker’s annual State of the State budget address, where he highlighted Illinois’ economic progress over the last several years, including achieving a $1.2 trillion GDP, attracting record-breaking private sector investments across all regions of the state, and being ranked number 13 in CNBC’s Best States for Business — up 17 spots since 2019. 

 

“For decades, Teklab has been a driver of economic growth and a key part of our state’s environmental leadership. Today, we’re building on that legacy and reaffirming our commitment to Illinois’ dynamic business environment,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “In my State of the State address yesterday, I talked about the importance of cutting red tape to jumpstart development and supporting economic growth in the face of federal headwinds. Here in Illinois, we will use every lever at our disposal to help job creators across the state thrive.”

 

“Teklab proudly announces the opening of its new state-of-the-art laboratory facility in Collinsville, Illinois. This move marks a major milestone in the company’s continued growth and long-term investment in advanced technology, expanded capacity, and talent. With this new facility, Teklab is positioned to drive continued growth in the Midwest — while expanding its expertise nationwide,” said Teklab Inc. CEO John Riley. “The project was made possible through the support of the State of Illinois, particularly DCEO, along with valued partners ARCO Construction and the Bank of O’Fallon. Teklab also extends its appreciation to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) for working closely with the Teklab team to ensure all laboratory accreditations remained fully intact throughout the transition. Most importantly, Teklab recognizes its employees for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring a seamless relocation while continuing to deliver exceptional service to clients. None of this is possible without a shared commitment to working together toward a common goal — growth, innovation, and opportunity.” 

 

Illinois offers strong economic policies and bold environmental leadership to support companies like Teklab in their growth and innovation. Under Governor Pritzker’s leadership, Illinois has led on climate action, setting a path toward a clean energy future through landmark policies — such as the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA) — that prioritize sustainability, equity, and long-term economic development. Illinois also recognizes the critical role that environmental testing laboratories play in safeguarding the environment, supporting regulatory compliance, and protecting public health. Teklab’s new facility underscores Illinois’ commitment to pairing business growth with environmental stewardship. 

 

Supporting jobs creators looking to locate or expand in Illinois is a key priority for growing the state’s economy. In FY2027, Governor Pritzker is proposing to build upon the state’s economic momentum through funding for manufacturing training academies, community revitalization and public infrastructure projects statewide, significant capital investments in site readiness, and more. 

 

“Teklab’s investment is exactly the type of project DCEO supports — one that creates good-paying jobs, strengthens regional economies, and positions Illinois as a leader in innovation,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “This new facility will generate meaningful opportunities for the Metro East region while reinforcing Illinois’ role as a premier destination for companies looking to grow and invest.” 

 

“Robust statewide environmental laboratory capacity is critically important to Illinois’ ongoing efforts to provide its residents a safe and healthy environment. As one of the many environmental laboratories accredited by the Illinois EPA laboratory, Teklab is a progressive facility committed to excellent work,” said IEPA Acting Director James Jennings. “Our laboratory accreditation unit has worked closely with this great group of scientists to validate their equipment throughout their move and looks forward to our continued work together.” 

 

Established in 1982, Teklab is a veteran-owned, full-service environmental testing laboratory that analyzes air, wastewater, groundwater, soils, special wastes, hazardous wastes, oil, sludge samples, and drinking water. The company works with clients in the industrial, consulting, and municipal industries. Teklab is headquartered in Collinsville and has a presence throughout the state with service centers in Downers Grove and Springfield. 

 

“Teklab has been a valued member of the Metro East community for decades, and I’m thrilled to see them continue to grow right here in our district,” said State Representative Katie Stuart (D-Edwardsville). “This new state-of-the-art laboratory represents more than just a building — it’s an investment in our local workforce, our regional economy, and the health and safety of communities across Illinois.” 

 

“We are thrilled to congratulate Teklab on its expansion and continued growth here in Collinsville. Teklab’s decision to reinvest in our community speaks volumes about the strength of our local workforce, our business-friendly environment, and the confidence companies have in Collinsville’s future,” said Collinsville Mayor Jeff Stehman. “We are grateful for Teklab’s ongoing commitment to our city and look forward to the jobs, innovation, and economic momentum this expansion will bring.”

 

“Teklab’s move into its new Collinsville facility represents a strong investment, not only in its future, but in the future of Madison County,” said Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser. “Environmental testing plays a critical role in supporting infrastructure, redevelopment, and safe growth across our communities, and we’re proud to see companies expanding their footprint here.” 

 

“Teklab’s new facility in Collinsville is an example of the steady growth that powers Illinois’ economy,” said Christy George, President and CEO of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation. “As a family and veteran-owned company, Teklab represents the entrepreneurial spirit and technical expertise that define the Southwestern Illinois region. This new testing facility reflects the strength of the Metro East’s skilled workforce and strategic location.” 

 

DCEO’s Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) agreement with Teklab is available here: https://dceo.illinois.gov/expandrelocate/incentives/edgeagreements.html