Schneider National, a major provider of transportation, logistics and intermodal services, was recently awarded approximately $7 million in Opportunity Returns funds to support the building of a new facility in Illinois. The funds are enabling Schneider to invest in a new, state-of the-art Operating Center (company-owned truck stop) at the Gateway Commerce Center in Edwardsville, Ill., and to create at least 440 new jobs over the next two years.

Schneider National’s new Operating Center will provide company drivers and owner-operators with an array of amenities, including showers, Internet access, and other services, such as equipment maintenance and fuel. Services will be available 24 hours per day, and the new Operating Center will also offer office space for training and recruiting. On average, 150 drivers per day will come through the facility.

“We are seeing an increase in demand for transportation services in the region and are pleased with Gov. Blagojevich’s support of our efforts to bring new jobs to the area and invigorate the local economy,” said Todd Jadin, senior vice president of operations at Schneider National. “With the largest customer base in the industry, Schneider expects that new and experienced drivers will join our team and benefit from leading-edge technology, superior training and rewarding career options. We’re proud to add Edwardsville to our network of operating centers nationwide.”

The business investment package comes from the Illinois DCEO, which will provide Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) corporate income tax credits over 10 years based on job creation; a Large Business Development Program grant for infrastructure improvements; Employer Training Investment Program (ETIP) job training funds that will help enhance the skills of its workforce; as well as additional financial benefits, such as sales tax exemptions and tax credits for job creation, resulting from the company's location within an Enterprise Zone.

Headquartered in Green Bay, Wis., Schneider National has provided expert transportation and logistics solutions for more than 70 years. A $3.5 billion company, Schneider National conducts business in more than 28 countries in North America, Europe and Asia, and continues to grow its international service offerings.

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