Wacker Chemical Corp. announces strategic workforce reduction at Charleston facility

Charleston, TN — Wacker Chemical Corporation has announced a strategic workforce reduction affecting approximately 90 of nearly 650 employees at its Charleston, Tennessee production site. The decision comes amid a broader realignment effort to address evolving market conditions and ensure long-term business sustainability.

The Charleston facility, which opened in 2016 and employs around 650 people, produces high-consistency silicone rubber, high-purity polysilicon, and fumed silica. Despite a significant $200 million expansion in 2022 that added roughly 200 jobs, the company now faces economic headwinds that have prompted this difficult but necessary step.

“This decision was not made lightly,” said Chris Kowitz, President and CEO of Wacker Chemical Corp. “We are deeply grateful for the contributions of our colleagues and remain committed to supporting them through this transition.”

Impacted employees will be eligible for severance benefits, and Wacker will continue to prioritize safety, innovation, and customer service across its operations. The company reaffirmed its commitment to the Charleston community and its role in the regional economy.

Wacker Chemical Corp., headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, is the North and South American subsidiary of Munich-based Wacker Chemie AG. The Charleston site is one of seven production facilities operated by Wacker in the Midwest.