THE FOLLOWING IS A VERMILION ADVANTAGE RELEASE
Danville, IL – December 22, 2025 – The past several weeks have brought difficult news for Vermilion County. Announcements from Hyster-Yale Group and McLane Midwest have created uncertainty for workers, families, and the broader community, and the impact is being felt far beyond the walls of any single facility.
Vermilion Advantage has been actively engaged alongside the City of Danville and regional partners, working to retain jobs and support long term business stability in the county. While those efforts included extensive discussions and negotiations to keep Hyster-Yale Group in Danville, the company has announced plans to close its Danville operations in 2026 and relocate to Avon, Indiana, impacting 220 individuals. McLane Midwest has also announced an undisclosed number of workforce reductions.
While these outcomes are deeply disappointing, Vermilion Advantage remains focused on its most important responsibility: supporting the people who live and work in Vermilion County.
“Our role has always been to support business and industry, but first and foremost, we serve people,” said Tracy Wahlfeldt, Interim CEO of Vermilion Advantage. “We recognize how unsettling these announcements are, and we want workers to know they are not alone. Vermilion County has strong employers who need talent, and we are committed to helping individuals find opportunities to stay, grow, and build their future right here.”
Vermilion Advantage is actively working to connect displaced and transitioning workers with employment opportunities across the region. The organization is encouraging individuals looking for opportunities in Vermilion County to take advantage of available resources and support.
Resources for Individuals Seeking Employment
• Vermilion Advantage will accept resumes directly and share them directly with member employers. Resumes can be submitted to sarah@vermilionadvantage.com.
• Job seekers are encouraged to visit the Vermilion Advantage Job Board at https://www.vermilionadvantage.com/job-board/
• Resume writing assistance and job search support are available through Vermilion County Works at www.vermilioncountyworks.org
Resources for Employers
• Vermilion Advantage member employers may post open positions free of charge on the Vermilion Advantage Job Board at www.vermilionadvantage.com/job-board
• Employers seeking talent are encouraged to contact Vermilion Advantage directly. Resumes received will be shared with employers who are hiring.
Vermilion Advantage continues to work alongside public and private partners to strengthen business conditions in Vermilion County and support long term economic vitality. While recent announcements bring challenges, they do not define the community’s future.
“Vermilion County remains a place where people care deeply about one another, where businesses can succeed, and where talent is valued,” Wahlfeldt said. “This community has always moved forward together. Our focus is on supporting both workers and employers as we navigate these changes and keep opportunities here at home.”
For additional information or support, individuals and employers are encouraged to contact Vermilion Advantage directly.
