Long known as a manufacturing powerhouse, Northwest Alabama has a large workforce of highly-skilled advanced manufacturing workers who are sharing their knowledge through industry-led training. 

With thousands of our workers commuting to the more than 50 automotive OEMs and suppliers within a 90-minute drive, we have sites, skilled employees, and training resources ready to attract these companies even closer to home.

Legacy homegrown food companies and nearby international food and beverage brands currently employ over 4,800 people in our region, providing a pool of talent alongside prime infrastructure resources for food industry growth.

Perfectly positioned on the I-20/I-22 corridor halfway between Memphis and Atlanta, we have pad-ready industrial sites, a strong manufacturing base, available rail sites, and access to two ports within a 30-minute drive.

Our cluster of specialty metal fabrication companies represents a legacy industry with enduring growth over five decades that promises more to come thanks to the 20-plus successful metal fabrication training programs in higher education statewide.

With a history dating back over 200 years, the wood product industry continues to grow with diversified opportunities, relying on our highly skilled workforce, natural setting, and excellent logistical advantages.