Alabama officials announced the existing Hexcel production site in Decatur has been selected by the company for its first integrated U.S. carbon fiber and PAN production facility. When completed and fully operational, the expansion will add about 90 new jobs to Hexcel's existing workforce in Decatur.
The expansion was announced this morning at a ceremony in Decatur attended by Hexcel executives, state officials and local leaders. The project is part of the company's strategic plan to ramp up production of advanced composites to meet increasing demand in the aerospace and industrial markets. Production is expected to begin in 2021.
Hexcel Chairman, CEO and President Nick Stanage said the company conducted a comprehensive study for the project before choosing to expand in Decatur. “We are pleased to reaffirm our commitment to Decatur, to the State of Alabama and to our existing team at the plant. We looked around the world at possible locations for this expansion, and the people of Alabama made it clear that Decatur would be the right choice," he said.
"Hexcel's expansion plan underscores the company's confidence in its loyal Alabama workforce and reflects the strong partnership that has been built in Decatur," Governor Kay lvey said. "I look forward to seeing Hexcel's Alabama operation continue to grow and thrive."
"Alabama stands in the center of the emerging Southeastern aerospace cluster, and we want to penetrate all levels of the industry supply chain," added Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. "The growth of companies such as Hexcel shows that we are positioned for an expanding role in that supply chain."
According to the Morgan County Economic Development Association (MCEDA), Hexcel's investment in the expansion project is approximately $200 million, adding to previous investment totaling $691 million in the facility.
"This exciting announcement for Morgan County reinforces our qualified workforce and competitive location. We appreciate Hexcel's investment and look forward to their continued growth in Morgan County," said Morgan County Commission Chairman Ray Long.
"The size of this capital investment makes it one of the largest in the history of Morgan
County and will pay long term dividends to local schools and governments," Senator
Arthur Orr said. 'We are grateful for Hexcel Corp.'s renewed commitment to the people of this area and look forward to an enhanced, mutually beneficial relationship."
"I have been associated with Hexcel since 1988 when they were known as Hispan," Decatur Mayor Tab Bowling said. "Since those early years, Hexcelleaders have continued to invest in Decatur and they have remained a leader in the growing carbon fiber industry. This investment is a reflection of a wonderful economic development community led by our EDA staff, a strong workforce, and our logistical advantages."
Joining MCEDA and the Alabama Department of Commerce on the project recruitment team were the Morgan County Commission, Decatur's mayor and City Council, and the Tennessee Valley Authority.
About the Alabama Department of Commerce
The Alabama Department of Commerce is the state's lead economic development agency, working with economic development allies throughout the state to fulfill the objectives of Accelerate Alabama, the state's strategic economic development growth plan. In addition to its business development activities, Commerce divisions promote exporting and international investment opportunities for Alabama businesses, assist small businesses, and position the state as a location for film and television productions. Commerce is home to the state's primary non-education workforce development programs, including AIDT, a nationally known job-training agency.
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