A new manufacturing facility coming to Opelika is expected to create 261 jobs in the community.
Hanwha Cimarron, a developer of carbon fiber tanks and pressure vessels, will open its new manufacturing facility in the Northeast Opelika Industrial Park, the City of Opelika announced Tuesday. The company estimates it will invest $130 million in the new facility.
David Jeon, CEO of Hanwha Cimarron, said the facility will create products catering to the aerospace, defense, marine and automotive markets.
“We’re excited about bringing over 200 good paying jobs to the local area, and about being a part of the greater Opelika community,” Jeon said. “We look forward to forming strong local partnerships that will benefit the company, the community, and our employees.”
In December 2020, South Korea-based Hanwha Solutions Corp. acquired Huntsville-based Cimarron Composites as part of an expansion into the hydrogen energy business. Cimarron was founded in 2008 by a NASA researcher and previously made tanks for rockets. Its products also have potential implications for hydrogen-powered automobiles and charging stations, the press release says.
Gov. Kay Ivey said the company’s decision to open the Opelika facility is great news for the state.
“This is another project that will create jobs for our hard-working citizens while also showing Alabama offers the kind of business environment that companies seek for success,” Ivey said.
Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller announced the project at a meeting with the company and the Opelika City Council on Tuesday. Fuller thanked Hanwha Cimarron for choosing Opelika for its new manufacturing facility.
“Our city provides a strong workforce and offers great living amenities,” Fuller said. “We are excited to support this new industry.”
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Evan Mealins, senior in philosophy and economics, is the editor-in-chief of The Auburn Plainsman.
