Forging the future.
Manufacturing economic success.
Alabama’s abundance of mineral wealth has made the state ripe for economic development with more than 1,100 primary metal manufacturing companies calling Alabama home. The state’s rich past in metal manufacturing continues to build success now, with over 45,000 Alabama residents employed in the primary and fabricated metal manufacturing industry and $3.6 billion in new capital investment within the sector announced since the beginning of 2022. Alabama also has a solid grip on the future in the form of carbon fiber and advanced materials.
45.2k
employed in metal mfg. in 2024
3
of the nation’s top
pipemakers
$1.4B+
in metal manufactured
goods
exports in 2023
1.1k
primary metal companies
Traditional metals
Alabama’s unique geological conditions have primed the state for success in traditional metals manufacturing. Thanks to abundant deposits of iron ore, coal, limestone and dolomite just miles apart in Birmingham, the area benefited from the lowest raw-material assembly costs in the United States and grew rapidly as a metal manufacturing destination. That success continues today, with exports of primary metal manufactured goods and fabricated metal manufactured goods from the state exceeding $1.4 billion in 2023.
Advanced metals
Alabama is committed to pioneering the future of metalworking thanks to its capabilities and production of carbon fiber and advanced materials. Two of the world’s largest producers of carbon fiber, Toray and Hexcel, have substantial facilities in Decatur. Meanwhile, Carpenter Technologies utilizes an ultramodern plant in Athens to produce premium specialty alloys such as titanium for the aerospace industry.
Latest Metal & Advanced Materials News
Nucor plans $280 million investment project at Tuscaloosa steel mill
TUSCALOOSA, Alabama — Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa plans to invest $280 million to support current and future operations at the Tuscaloosa County rolling mill, the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority announced today.
November 16, 2023
Why Alabama?
You can make it here in Alabama.
Alabama is a state of makers, builders, and doers. So, whatever you make or build, you can do it in Alabama. We’re a launching point for aerospace, aviation, and defense. A leader in automotive production. A home for startups, technology, and research breakthroughs. And drawing on our manufacturing roots, we’re helping to usher in the industrial evolution in America.
Logistics & Infrastructure
Alabama’s prime location in the South and on the Gulf Coast grants it nearly unlimited access to the national and international markets. Alabama sits within a one day drive to all of the South and its nearly 150M residents.
Workforce & Training
Alabama’s strong workforce is a major attraction for businesses worldwide, driven by our commitment to skill development. Industry leaders like Mercedes-Benz and Airbus have benefited from on-site training programs in partnership with state workforce agencies; and our state’s focus on education and industrial training through colleges further strengthens Alabama’s appeal to businesses.
Taxes & Incentives
Alabama’s business approach is very inviting, offering global companies incentives, tax benefits, a skilled workforce, and excellent real estate options. Low taxes, affordable utilities, and a reasonable cost of living boost profits, and the state ensure ideal site locations and attractive incentives for long-term success in Alabama.
Project Assistance
Alabama’s Business Development Division actively seeks corporate investors, promotes global expansion for local companies, supports small businesses, and collaborates with various stakeholders for comprehensive investor support. The state also engages with communities to enhance competitiveness and contribute significantly to Alabama’s economic growth strategy, making the state attractive to investors, businesses, and job seekers.