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PAGE 6 March 2026 E-Edition
2025 Was Record-Breaking Year for Alabama Economic Development
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has announced that German-based chain manufacturer KettenWulf will launch a new manufacturing operation in Auburn, Alabama. This is a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to growing in the U.S. market. KettenWulf is a family-owned company specializing in high-performance engineered conveyor chains, drive chains and sprockets serving a wide range of industrial applications. “KettenWulf’s decision to invest in Auburn speaks to Alabama’s ability to compete and win on the global stage,” said Governor Ivey. “With a highly skilled workforce and deep manufacturing heritage, Alabama’s business climate continues to attract innovative manufacturing companies from around the world.” Founded in Germany in 1925, KettenWulf recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, marking a century of growth driven by the evolution of technological advancement. Over decades, the company has established itself as an important player in advanced chain and drive technologies, providing customizable Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has announced the release of the 2025 New & Expanding Industry Announcements Report, marking a record year for economic development growth across the state. The Alabama Department of Commerce annual report lists 234 projects last year that combined for a total capital investment of $14.6 billion, the highest annual total in state history, along with 9,388 new job commitments. “Alabama’s economy is riding a wave of historic momentum, with signs of success in every corner of our state. Innovative developments, high-quality jobs and transformative investments are ushering in an extraordinary era of prosperity, as new companies move in and existing ones expand,” said Governor Ivey. “This growth is the result of a strategic economic development plan and the hard work of a team that is focused on keeping Alabama at the forefront of a competitive global economy.” Governor Ivey said the report reflects a broader economic transformation that has taken place since she took office in 2017, guided by a deliberate focus on business recruitment, workforce development and long- term growth. She highlighted her disciplined, results- driven strategy during her state of the state address. “Being a former economic developer, I knew our first opportunity was to recruit and support businesses.
“On behalf of the Wulf family, that includes my siblings, Julia and Tobias, and our father, we appreciate the valuable support we have received from the city of Auburn and the state of Alabama that made this possible,” said Ansgar Wulf, Chief Executive Officer of KettenWulf, Inc. “We are proud to have found our new home in Auburn to serve our customers across the Americas.” The company plans to invest approximately $34 million and create an estimated 70 new jobs. This strategic expansion represents the company’s decades long commitment to serving customers worldwide. “We are grateful to the Wulf family for choosing Auburn and bringing this great company to our city,” said Mayor Ron Anders, Jr. “KettenWulf further strengthens our technology-based manufacturing sector. We are excited about the economic impact that the investment represents and are grateful for the good jobs offering Since then, we have seen investments totaling $69 billion which has created 100,000+ jobs – and counting,” said Governor Ivey during her recent state address. “Alabama consistently ranks among the top ten states for doing business.” Growth was seen in a wide array of business sectors, such as biosciences, technology, metals and advanced materials, automotive and aerospace, forestry and wood products and more. Pivotal projects included: • Pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Company plans to spend more than $6 billion to build an advanced manufacturing operation in Huntsville and Limestone County. The synthetic medicine active pharmaceutical ingredient facility, which will create 450 jobs for engineers, scientists, lab technicians and other skilled personnel, represents the largest initial investment in Alabama history. • ArcelorMittal is investing $1.2 billion to build a facility in Mobile County to produce a specialty electrical steel that is used in EV motors and other applications. The project will create more than 200 jobs. • Owens Corning announced plans to open a $325 million state-of-the-art shingle manufacturing plant in Prattville that will add 89 jobs in Autauga County. The growth was not limited to Alabama’s largest cities. Rural Alabama also made a strong showing in 2025, as the state’s “targeted” rural counties combined to
opportunities for our citizens.” The Alabama Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Department of the city of Auburn worked closely together in support of the decision by KettenWulf to select Auburn. "We are excited to welcome KettenWulf to East Alabama, and we look forward to a long and prosperous relationship," said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. "The company's decision to develop future innovations in Auburn speaks to the talent and experience of the local workforce and the strong community support that is already in place." KettenWulf sees the Auburn operation as the foundation for future growth in the US and is seeking a long-term partnership with the local community. Brian Ludvigsen, general manager of KettenWulf, Inc. stated, “Auburn proved to be the right fit for our operational needs, offering a unique environment for our business while strengthening our presence in the United States market.” register a total capital investment of $2 billion and 2,011 new job opportunities. One substantial investment in this region is Georgia Pacific’s plans to spend $800 million in Monroe County to modernize, expand and streamline production capabilities at the company’s Alabama River Cellulose mill. The project will make the Perdue Hill facility the largest softwood pulp mill in the U.S. The report showed a total of $3.6 billion in foreign direct investment projects in 2025 that are set to create 2,274 new job opportunities. Governor Ivey affirmed Alabama’s economic development team is ready for more success this year and beyond. “We are open for business, ready to embrace new challenges and poised to welcome even more world-class companies, advanced technologies and breakthrough products,” said Governor Ivey. “They should look no further than Sweet Home Alabama, and we plan to get them here.” Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said the results confirm an impressive debut for “Catalyst,” the Commerce Department’s new strategic economic growth plan. At the same time, initiatives such as SEEDS and Growing Alabama are helping communities prepare industrial sites and infrastructure, while business and government leaders collaborate on ways to maintain a competitive edge.
German Manufacturer Coming to Auburn engineered solutions for heavy industries ranging from mining, steelmaking, bulk-material handling, manufacturing and other specialty applications.
Gadsden State Black History Month Celebration Honors Heritage, Leadership and Legacy
Gadsden State Community College hosted a college- wide Black History Month Celebration on February 18, 2026, at its Wallace Drive Campus, bringing together students, faculty, staff and community partners for a meaningful program recognizing heritage, achievement and continued progress. The event highlighted the importance of Black history and its lasting influence on education, culture and society while honoring individuals whose contributions continue to inspire future generations. Serving as master of ceremonies was Andy Green, Dean of Student Services. College President Alan Smith delivered opening remarks and recognized special guests in attendance. During the program, Ricky Tillis, Valley Street Campus Director, presented the Community Leader Impact Honors. The recognition honored three Alabama men whose determination led them to participate in the historic 1963 March on Washington. Honorees included Robert Lee Avery Jr., Robert Frank Thomas, and James Foster Smith. The Gadsden State Show Band provided several musical performances throughout the celebration, contributing to the program’s energetic atmosphere. Student engagement remained a central focus of the event. Sana McCarther delivered a powerful spoken word performance highlighting themes of resilience and identity.
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Four students presented reflections honoring influential figures in Black history. They include: • Morgan Raines, Salon and Spa Management student, reflected on entrepreneur and philanthropist Madame C. J. Walker. • Seana Gray, Nursing student, honored pioneering nurse Mary Eliza Mahoney. • Malaysia McCullough, Diagnostic Medical Sonography student, presented on physician and trailblazer Dr. Helen Octavia Dickens. • Jacques Walker, student athlete and General Studies student, reflected on baseball legend and civil rights advocate Jackie Robinson.
The keynote address was delivered by Cleophus Thomas Jr., Esq., who shared personal reflections on Black history and discussed the profound influence it has had on his life and professional journey. A highlight of the program was an impactful presentation by Elder Michael Verges, who delivered a powerful rendition of Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. The celebration reinforced Gadsden State’s continued commitment to honoring history, fostering community engagement and encouraging meaningful dialogue that inspires leadership and unity across campus and beyond.
Governor’s Office Summer Internship Program
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has announced that the application period for the Governor’s Office Summer Internship Program is now open. This nine-week program offers college students a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience in state government, while working alongside professionals in the executive branch. A staunch advocate for education and a former teacher, Governor Ivey encourages all college students, who are potentially interested in obtaining experience in the governmental sector, to apply for the program. “I am excited to welcome another class of bright, driven students to Montgomery this summer. Working alongside my exceptional staff, our interns play a meaningful role in the work of the Governor’s Office, contributing fresh ideas and supporting the day-to-day efforts that move our state forward,” said Governor Ivey. “This program gives young people a firsthand look at state government while allowing them to make a real difference in Alabama.” Former interns say the program leaves a lasting impact well beyond the summer experience. Mary Sullivan, a summer 2025 intern in Governor Ivey’s Press Office, current student at The University of Alabama and
recently selected as a 2026 Capitol Scholar, shared how the opportunity shaped her path. “The governor’s internship reshaped my approach to public service by providing valuable opportunities for professional development, mentorship from exceptional leaders and continued support beyond the internship itself,” said Sullivan. “During my time in the office, my appreciation for the state of Alabama grew substantially, and I left knowing I had made a meaningful impact through the responsibilities delegated to me. Being part of history by working for Team Ivey remains one of the most significant experiences in my life, and I encourage any student interested in a career in public service to apply.” Eligible applicants must be current college students with a strong interest in public service and government. Selected interns will work directly with staff, participate in special projects and have the chance to engage in key issues impacting Alabama. This program has also served as a launching point for future leadership within the Ivey Administration. John Gilchrist, a graduate of Tuskegee University who interned in Governor Ivey’s Appointments Office and now
serves as Governor Ivey’s Constituent Services Policy Correspondent, credited the internship with preparing him for public service. “My internship in Governor Ivey’s Office not only served as a vital portal into the daily operations of the Governor’s Office, but into a broader system of state government. Witnessing the collaboration between the executive branch and various state agencies revealed the immense scale of responsibilities that it takes to keep our state moving,” said Gilchrist. “This valuable experience allowed me to excel in roles as a current staffer in the Ivey Administration that covered policy implementation and meeting the needs of our constituents.” The internship will run from June 2, 2026, through July 31, 2026. The deadline to apply is March 13, 2026, by close of business. “Mary and John are excellent examples of this internship program. I am proud of the paths they have taken and grateful for the contributions they continue to make to our state,” added Governor Ivey. For more information about the program and how to apply, please visit: https://governor.alabama.gov/ administration/internship-program/
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