Another One: High-Tech German Manufacturer to Open Alabama Operation

AUBURN, Ala. — The Winkelmann Group, a German-based high-tech manufacturer that primarily services the aerospace industry, is coming to Alabama and bringing 50 jobs with it. In a Monday announcement at the Paris Air Show, the company and Gov. Kay Ivey (R-Ala.) stated that a $12 million metal forming operation will be set up in Auburn, and it will create 50 jobs over the next five years.

“As we declare to the world that Alabama is open for business, we welcome Winkelmann to our family of aerospace and defense-related companies in Alabama,” Gov. Ivey said. “The Winkelmann Group, with over a hundred years of industrial history, operates numerous manufacturing facilities globally, and we are extremely proud that they chose Auburn as the home of Winkelmann Flowform Technology.”

Winklemann has more than 45 years experience working in space flight and aviation. The company generally focuses on high-precision, high-strength, thin wall roto-symmetrical parts from all kinds of metals, including titanium and high-strength steel.

The official name of the Auburn operation will be Winkelmann Flowform Technology LP. It is merely the latest addition to Alabama’s already booming aerospace manufacturing sector. Jobs in manufacturing grew again last month, and the sector’s growth helped lead Alabama to its lowest unemployment rate in almost a decade.

“Winkelmann’s impressive capabilities add another dimension to Alabama’s robust aerospace sector, and we’re happy that the company picked Auburn as the home of its first U.S. production facility,” said Alabama Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield.

In addition to the economic growth, the facility’s location will likely have an educational impact as well. Auburn University, already renowned for its engineering programs, has reached out to Winklemann leadership about potential collaboration. “There are numerous areas where some of our departments — including mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, and materials engineering — will be able to assist the company with its operation in Auburn,” Dr. Chris Roberts, dean of Auburn’s Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, told the Commerce Department’s website. “And the company will offer excellent employment opportunities for our students in the future.”