Nemak Kentucky to add 170 well-paying jobs with Glasgow expansion
GLASGOW, KY. – November 3, 2021 – Thursday, Nemak Kentucky, Gov. Andy Beshear, and the Barren County Economic Authority announced Nemak’s plans for expansion in Glasgow.
Nemak USA Inc., a manufacturer of innovative lightweight products for powertrain, e-mobility and structure applications, will create 170 well-paying jobs with a $27 million expansion of its Nemak Kentucky operation in Glasgow to support future electric-vehicle-related business.
“The growth of our automotive industry this year has been remarkable, and we are seeing more companies increase their focus on EV-related products,” Gov. Beshear said. “Nemak’s expansion sill not only add to that growth, but also create a significant number of high-wage jobs for residents in Barren County and the surrounding region.”
Nemak’s investment will support building upgrades and new, state-of-the-art equipment at its facility on Prestwick Drive. The expansion will support new EV-related business, and better position the operation for future contracts. The project also will increase the company’s training efforts for current and new employees in partnership with Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College and Western Kentucky University. Company leaders expect production of new parts to begin in early next year, with full production slated for Q3 2022.
The company operates a second facility in Glasgow on American Avenue. Nemak has operated in Glasgow since 2012.
“Nemak is rapidly increasing our EV-related programs in order to support our customers in their mission for an all-electric future and a more sustainable mobility,” said Luis Peña, Nemak business unit director, USA. “Having the opportunity to expand our footprint at an existing plant aligns strongly with our commitment to our people and the communities in which we operate.”
Established in Mexico in 1979, Nemak manufactures lightweight components for the automotive industry and specializes in aluminum products for powertrain and body structure applications. Nemak
Kentucky supports other companies in the state, as 20% of its spending in 2020 went toward products sourced from suppliers in the commonwealth. In addition to its Kentucky presence, Nemak has U.S. locations in Alabama, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. The company employs over 22,000 people at 38 facilities in 15 countries.
Barren County Judge/Executive Micheal Hale is glad to see Nemak expand its presence in the region.
“We are excited to support Nemak in this substantial expansion here in Barren County,” said Micheal Hale, Barren County Judge Executive “for over a decade Nemak has been a tremendous community partner and we couldn’t be more thrilled about them choosing to reinvest and strengthen their presence in Glasgow, KY.”
Glasgow Mayor Harold Armstrong noted the company’s important role in the local business community.
“The City of Glasgow is fortunate to have companies like Nemak in our community. Today’s announcement is another example of their strong presence as an industry leader, as well as a substantial contributor to our economy” Mayor Armstrong said. “Thank you to Nemak and all of their employees for helping Glasgow to again solidify our position as an automotive industry powerhouse.”
Locally, Nemak is truly a community partner, Plant Manager, Randy Dickey serves on the Glasgow Barren County Chamber Board of Directors, they support many local programs and events through sponsorships for the community to enjoy, and they strongly participate in the development of the future workforce through business and education partnership.
Maureen Carpenter, executive director of the Barren County Economic Authority, lauded the company’s commitment.
“On behalf of the Baren County Economic Authority I extend our congratulations to Nemak and their entire team, said Maureen Carpenter, Executive Director. “This expansion will have a significant economic impact on the community bringing important capital investment and high-paying new job opportunities for our residents, we are excited to work with Nemak on this project.
Currently, more than 525 motor vehicle-related facilities operate in Kentucky, employing over 100,000 full time. In 2021, automotive companies have announced new-location and expansion projects creating 6,700 full-time jobs with over $6.5 billion in new investments.
For more information about Nemak visit: www.nemak.com.
