PRESS ROOM
Manufacturing Association Created For Alabama Automotive Companies
AAMA Press Release
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (July 27, 2001) - Mercedes-Benz. Honda. International Diesel. Ogihari. Toyota. These high-profile automotive companies all have announced large manufacturing operations in Alabama in recent years.
Combine those global manufacturers with existing companies, such as Delphi, Johnson Controls and Dunlop, and it becomes apparent that the transportation industry is becoming an important part of Alabama's economy.
Representatives of the state's automotive industry have created the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association to ensure their companies remain competitive in the global economy, and the industry will continue to provide economic benefits for Alabama.
"The AAMA is expected to improve cooperation and interaction among automotive companies in Alabama," said newly elected president Will Turner, assistant manager for purchasing and supplier development for Mercedes-Benz U.S. International Inc. "This organization will provide opportunities for automotive companies and suppliers to develop relationships that will be beneficial to all. We can work together to share information and become better informed on manufacturing and management, as well as some of the governmental issues that have an impact on the automotive industry."
Turner said the AAMA will accept members from automobile manufacturers, such as Mercedes-Benz and Honda, as well as suppliers and companies and organizations that have demonstrated experience with manufacturing trends, techniques or services in the automotive industry.
Today, the AAMA has 78 members from across the state of Alabama. Founding members of the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association include Mercedes-Benz, International Diesel of Alabama, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Delphi Automotive Systems, the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, Alabama Industrial Development Training, the Alabama Development Office, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, the Alabama Technology Network and the Business Council of Alabama.
Bernard Schroer, associate vice president for research at The University of Alabama in Huntsville, serves as executive director of the association.
"Membership in this association provides clear benefits to anyone wishing to conduct manufacturing in Alabama, particularly automotive manufacturing,," said Schroer. "Companies can share their best manufacturing techniques as well as advances in technology. Association members can also remain informed about issues that impact their industry and bottom line."
The group will hold quarterly meetings with nationally known speakers and industry executives. Workshops, seminars and roundtables on manufacturing trends, techniques and concerns are also planned. The group will also be a sponsor of the "Alabama Manufacturer of the Year Award."
For more information contact:
Bernard Schroer
256.824.6855
OR
Ray Garner
256.824.6414