OPELIKA, Ala. (Mar. 2, 2026) — Faith Technologies (FTI) has announced plans to invest more than $79 million to establish a new advanced manufacturing facility in Opelika, Alabama, creating approximately 200 full-time jobs with an average annual wage exceeding $65,000.
The project will transform the former JoAnn Stores Distribution Center in the Northeast Opelika Industrial Park into a state-of-the-art modular manufacturing operation supporting electrical assemblies and prefabricated infrastructure solutions.
Expanding Modular Manufacturing Capacity
Operating under its Excellerate® brand, FTI delivers modular electrical solutions for complex commercial and industrial projects nationwide. The company utilizes a modular construction model combined with lean manufacturing principles, breaking large-scale infrastructure projects into standardized components that are prefabricated in controlled environments and delivered ready for installation.
This approach enhances efficiency, reduces labor hours, improves quality control, and increases safety — critical advantages as demand grows for hyperscale data centers and advanced infrastructure supporting artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven industries.
FTI currently operates facilities in Appleton, Wisconsin, and Olathe, Kansas, and is expanding capacity in El Paso, Texas, and Pittsboro, Indiana. The Opelika facility represents a significant addition to its national manufacturing footprint.
Strengthening Alabama’s Advanced Industry Ecosystem
Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair said the project reinforces the state’s competitive position in advanced manufacturing.
“Faith Technologies’ $79 million investment in Opelika demonstrates Alabama’s growing strength as a premier destination for advanced manufacturing and innovation,” McNair said. “This project brings 200 high-quality jobs to East Alabama, reinforcing our skilled workforce, strategic location, and pro-business climate.”
Local leaders echoed that sentiment, noting that the project reflects confidence in Opelika’s workforce and economic vision.
“This investment represents more than new jobs and facilities,” said Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith. “It reflects confidence in our people, leadership, and business-friendly environment. Faith Technologies will be an important partner as we help shape the future of modern infrastructure and data-driven industries.”
Supporting Growth in the Data and AI Economy
The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure has significantly increased demand for hyperscale data centers nationwide. For more than a decade, FTI has pioneered industrialized construction methods, manufacturing electrical components off-site for streamlined installation at large-scale facilities.
Today, the company’s modular manufacturing model supports faster deployment timelines and long-term scalability — key factors for companies investing in next-generation data management and AI infrastructure.
“Faith Technologies’ decision to locate in Opelika is a strong endorsement of our community and long-term economic vision,” said John Sweatman, Economic Development Director for the City of Opelika. “Their innovative modular approach aligns with the forward-looking, high-quality growth we are working to attract.”
Positioning Opelika for Continued Industrial Growth
David Scott, Chairman of the Opelika Industrial Development Authority, noted that the investment further strengthens Opelika’s position as a hub for advanced industry.
“Your investment aligns perfectly with our skilled workforce and business-friendly environment,” Scott said. “We are excited to support your growth.”
With its new facility, FTI is poised to scale operations in Alabama while supporting the evolving needs of data infrastructure, energy, and advanced industrial clients nationwide.
