Formerly Douglas Autotech Corporation, local officials and devoted employees cut the ribbon on a rebranded JTEKT Column Systems North America in Hopkinsville late Wednesday afternoon — signifying a new era in the region, while exuding a strong desire to remain one of the world’s automotive production leaders.
Plant manager for about the past five years, Clay Travis called the organization “family-oriented,” and described this change as all-inclusive and encompassing.
While this specific facility has been in Christian County for nearly three decades, its beginnings are historic in nature. In 1902, it was producing parts for Henry Ford’s “Model T,” and to this day still produce directional controls, steering and columns for General Motors, Ford and Toyota.
It’s a testament to how far the automotive industry has come in America, but also a message on the company’s prosperity and perseverance, and Travis said the storyline is often discussed.
Over the last 24 months, state leaders have been pushing for the Commonwealth to become a critical piston of the electric battery and electric vehicle industry. It’s been even more imperative for west Kentucky’s economic gurus to double down on the initiative, which has included pushes for “Kentucky Cornerstone,” “Charged & Ready” and Christian County’s announcements of multiple automotive industrial expansions and new construction for Ascend Elements, Microvast and more.
Travis said JTEKT’s mission remains in line with this growth, and the future of its production line will have some focus in the EV world.
Judge-Executive Jerry Gilliam noted he and the magistrates were pleased with the investment, as a name change means more than signage.
Matt Hauret, president for Douglas Autotech, said the organization will remain “the same, great company they’re proud of,” with even larger expectations on the horizon.
In 2011, Douglas Autotech spent $17 million in Hopkinsville’s location and created 65 new jobs, and 2015, they announced a 30% increase in operations, which brought another 115 jobs to Christian County.
Located on Commerce Court, the plant is 116,000 square feet.
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