Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday announced electrical contractor Helix Electric broke ground on a $45.3 million facility in Jackson County that will create 160 jobs.
“Helix Electric’s major investment in Jackson County is exciting news for Alabama and a strong vote of confidence in our state’s workforce, infrastructure and business climate,” said Governor Ivey.“This project represents meaningful opportunities for Alabama families and continued momentum for economic growth in the region. We are grateful to Helix Electric for choosing Alabama and for the confidence the company has placed in Jackson County. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this investment will have on the region for years to come.”
The California-based company’s new Advanced Fabrication Campus will focus on manufacturing prefabricated electrical components and large modular electrical assemblies used in construction and industrial projects. Products will include underground duct banks, duct bank risers, hangers, electrical devices and modular electrical skids, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce.
The rural Alabama facility will allow the company to expand those capabilities while establishing a manufacturing presence closer to its existing teams and East Coast customers.
“Hollywood, Alabama, is exactly the kind of community where Helix Electric belongs,” said CEO Boris Shekhter. “The people here are hardworking, the region is growing, and local leaders have made it clear they want to build something that lasts. That is the same standard we hold ourselves to every single day. We are not just building a facility in Jackson County. We are making a long-term commitment to the people, the families and the future of this region.”
The project aligns with Commerce’s metals and advanced materials strategy under Catalyst, its 10-year economic development plan. The project underscores the state’s efforts to attract new investment and jobs to Alabama’s rural communities, including Jackson County, a designated Target County.
Helix Electric’s investment will extend well beyond the jobs created at a single facility, Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said.
“They can generate new opportunities for local contractors and suppliers, support small businesses and strengthen the communities that make Alabama an attractive place to live, work and do business,” said Secretary McNair. “Just as importantly, projects like this help position Jackson County for long-term success by expanding economic opportunity and creating new pathways for residents to build rewarding careers closer to home.”
The Tennessee Valley Authority and North Alabama Electric Cooperative congratulated Helix Electric on its milestone in Jackson County.
“A groundbreaking is always a special occasion because it represents a commitment to creating new opportunities and investment in the region,” said Heidi Smith, TVA’s vice president for economic development. “We are proud to partner with North Alabama Electric Cooperative, Jackson County EDA and the Alabama Department of Commerce in our shared commitment to supporting job creation and investment in the communities we serve. We celebrate this important next step with Helix Electric and look forward to its future business success here.”
Alabama State Sen. Steve Livingston added, “Helix Electric’s investment in Jackson County will benefit our citizens and our communities for decades to come. It is a major milestone for economic development in Northeast Alabama and is proof that our industry recruitment strategies are working. I’m proud to join Governor Kay Ivey in welcoming Helix Electric to Sweet Home Alabama.”
The groundbreaking represents a massive win for Jackson County and a testament to what makes the community so attractive to industry leaders, said Nathan Lee, president and CEO of the Jackson County Economic Development Authority.
“A $45 million investment and 160 new jobs will provide life-changing career opportunities for our residents and stimulate our local economy for years to come,” said Lee. “We are proud to welcome Helix Electric as our newest corporate partner and look forward to supporting their continued success.”
