Pritzker Celebrates Opening of Teklab’s New Collinsville Laboratory, Highlighting Jobs and Investment (Collinsville, IL) – Gov. JB Pritzker joined state and local leaders Thursday to cut the ribbon on Teklab’s new environmental testing laboratory in Collinsville, a $10 million investment expected to create 40 full-time jobs while retaining nearly 100 existing positions in the Metro East region.
The 36,500-square-foot facility expands Teklab’s capacity to meet growing demand for environmental analytical services and underscores Illinois’ push to attract business investment outside the Chicago area. The announcement came a day after Pritzker’s State of the State and budget address, in which he touted Illinois’ economic gains and ongoing development efforts.
“For decades, Teklab has been a driver of economic growth and a key part of our state’s environmental leadership,” Pritzker said at the event. “Here in Illinois, we will use every lever at our disposal to help job creators across the state thrive.”
State officials said the project reflects broader economic momentum, noting Illinois’ $1.2 trillion gross domestic product and improved business climate rankings in recent years. Pritzker has proposed continued investment in workforce training, infrastructure and site readiness in the upcoming fiscal year to build on that progress.
Teklab CEO John Riley called the new facility a milestone for the veteran-owned company, which was founded in 1982 and provides testing for air, water, soil and hazardous materials for industrial, municipal and consulting clients.
“With this new facility, Teklab is positioned to drive continued growth in the Midwest while expanding its expertise nationwide,” Riley said, crediting state agencies, local partners and employees for helping ensure a smooth transition to the new laboratory.
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity supported the project through an Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) incentive agreement. DCEO Director Kristin Richards said the expansion aligns with the state’s focus on projects that create quality jobs and strengthen regional economies.
Environmental regulators also emphasized the importance of expanded laboratory capacity. Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Acting Director James Jennings said accredited labs like Teklab play a key role in protecting public health and supporting compliance with environmental standards.
Local leaders welcomed the investment as a boost for the Metro East economy. State Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, said the facility represents an investment in both the regional workforce and environmental safety, while Collinsville Mayor Jeff Stehman said Teklab’s decision to expand locally reflects confidence in the community.
Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser and Illinois Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Christy George also highlighted the project’s broader impact, pointing to the role of environmental testing in supporting redevelopment, infrastructure and sustainable growth across the region.
Headquartered in Collinsville, Teklab maintains additional service centers in Downers Grove and Springfield. Company officials said the new laboratory will enhance its technological capabilities and position the firm for continued expansion as demand for environmental testing grows.
Pritzker Celebrates Opening of Teklab’s New Collinsville Laboratory, Highlighting Jobs and Investment
