OPELIKA, Ala. – The City of Opelika and the Opelika City Council are pleased to announce Faith Technologies Incorporated™ (FTI) has selected Opelika, Ala., as the location for its newest manufacturing facility. The project marks a significant investment in the community and a major boost to the region’s advanced manufacturing sector.
Secretary of the Alabama Department of CommerceEllen McNair added, “Faith Technologies’ $79 million investment in Opelika demonstrates Alabama’s growing strength as a premier destination for advanced manufacturing and innovation. This project brings 200 high-quality jobs to East Alabama, reinforcing our state’s competitive advantages—a skilled workforce, strategic location and pro-business climate.”
Through its Excellerate® brand, FTI delivers engineered electrical assemblies and modular solutions that support a wide range of projects, from standardized offerings to custom‑engineered construction solutions. Manufactured in controlled environments, these solutions help improve efficiency, quality, and safety for customers across multiple industries.
FTI currently operates facilities in Appleton, Wis., Little Chute, Wis. and Olathe, Kan., and is developing additional capacity in El Paso, Texas.
To support its continued expansion, FTI will invest more than $79 million to purchase and improve the former JoAnn Stores Distribution Center in the Northeast Opelika Industrial Park. The project is expected to create about 200 new full-time jobs, further strengthening Opelika’s growing employment base.
“We are proud to welcome FTI to Opelika,” said Eddie Smith, Mayor of Opelika. “This investment represents new jobs and new facilities as well as confidence in our people, our leadership and our business-friendly environment. FTI will be an important partner in our community and we look forward to growing together as they help support the future of modern infrastructure.”
FTI has spent more than a decade advancing industrialized construction methods by building electrical components in controlled environments for installation in the field. Today, it continues to refine its manufacturing approach by producing standardized components at its facilities and delivering them ready for installation. This process helps improve efficiency, quality, and jobsite safety while reducing overall labor demands.
“Becoming part of the Opelika community is an exciting step forward for FTI,” said David Jahner, executive vice president. “Our continued growth is grounded in safety and our Culture of Care, a commitment to our team members’ and to creating a workplace where people feel valued, respected and empowered. We look forward to building meaningful relationships and contributing positively to the Opelika community.”
“Welcome to Opelika, FTI,” said David Scott, Chairman of the Opelika Industrial Development Authority. “Our community is excited to support your growth as you bring innovative manufacturing and high-quality jobs to Opelika. Your investment strengthens Opelika’s position as a hub for advanced industry and aligns perfectly with our skilled workforce and business-friendly environment. We’re proud to welcome you and look forward to a long-term partnership.”
As advanced manufacturing continues to expand, companies are seeking long-term partners with established production capabilities. Speed to production, combined with quality and experience, is essential to capturing new opportunities. Opelika’s highly skilled workforce and business-friendly approach align seamlessly with FTI’s growth objectives, positioning the new facility for future development and continued investment.
For more information about economic development opportunities in Opelika, visit the City of Opelika’s website.
