Caterpillar Decatur celebrates 70 years of innovation as company marks centennial

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - A global leader in heavy machinery is marking two major milestones.

Caterpillar Inc. is celebrating 100 years of global operations, while its Decatur facility commemorates 70 years of building big machines that move the world. The twin anniversaries shine a spotlight on the legacy of manufacturing, innovation, and workforce pride in central Illinois.

The Decatur plant joined the Caterpillar family in 1955, quickly becoming one of its most essential manufacturing hubs.

Sherley Tyus has worked at the Decatur plant for 55 years and told WAND News it has been an incredible time.

"I always say that if I had to do my career all over again, I would do it the same," Tyus said.

She saw the facility change over time, specifically when it came to automation. "We have some highly, highly efficient tools," she said.

The Decatur site specializes in large mining trucks, track-type tractors and wheel tractor-scrapers. This equipment is seen on major infrastructure and mining sites around the globe.

The company’s 100th anniversary has sparked a global reflection on its impact. From building roads and bridges to supporting disaster recovery efforts, Caterpillar’s machines—and the people behind them—have helped shape modern society.