AIDT Expands Workforce with New EV Technology Center
Decatur, Alabama — The future of electric vehicle manufacturing in Alabama is taking shape at the Alabama Robotics Technology Park, where a new multi-million-dollar EV Technology Center is currently under construction.
This transformative investment will strengthen Alabama’s workforce pipeline and position the state as a national leader in electric vehicle (EV) production and advanced manufacturing training.
According to AIDT Deputy Director and Assistant Director of Birmingham and North Alabama, Kevin Taylor, construction is approximately 60% complete and on schedule to reach the September 2026 completion date. “Construction is progressing well and we are actively coordinating facility requirements to support advanced training equipment and future program expansion,” said Taylor.
As the automotive industry steadily transitions toward electrification, the demand for highly skilled workers continues to grow. The new $30 million, 40,000-square-foot facility will serve as a dedicated training hub focused on:
- Electrical fundamentals
- High-voltage safety
- Battery Systems
- EV manufacturing processes
- Advanced technologies, like laser welding
Once complete, the center will provide hands-on, industry-driven training programs that support both established automakers and the expanding EV supply chain across Alabama and the Southeast. Programs are being developed in a structured pathway, beginning with foundational skills and expanding into specialized training as industry needs evolve.
The EV Technology Center reflects collaboration among workforce, education, and industry partners across the state. AIDT continues to ensure Alabama companies have access to the skilled workforce needed to compete globally.
This training center positions us as a leader in high-voltage and advanced manufacturing training within the region,” says RTP Center Manager, James Reeves. “What sets us apart is our focus on production-level equipment and real-world applications, not just simulation-based training,” says Reeves. In addition to adding new skilled labor to the workforce, the EV Technology Center will also provide incumbent worker training to upskill the industry’s current employees.
Located in Decatur, the Alabama Robotics Technology Park is already recognized as a premier workforce training destination. The addition of the EV Technology Center further enhances RTP’s role in supporting next-generation manufacturing. Aligning directly with the needs of EV manufacturers and suppliers, the center will build a pipeline that supports current industry demands while also preparing for future growth.
Once operational, the EV Technology Center will serve as a cornerstone of Alabama’s strategy to remain competitive in an increasingly electrified global marketplace. When asked about training opportunities, EV Manufacturing Trainer Charles Salter says, “We are developing structured entry points that allow individuals to build foundational skills and transition into EV manufacturing careers. This approach provides flexibility while maintaining strong alignment with industry demand and supports both workforce advancement and new talent pipeline development.”
Initial training will launch in Winter 2027 following the completion of the EV Technology Center and will utilize a combination of advanced training systems and production-level equipment that will provide hands-on experience in real world conditions.
“Success will be defined as establishing a strong, scalable training pathway that begins with foundational programs, and expands into specialized, industry driven training,” said Kevin Taylor. “We aim to build a sustainable pipeline of skilled technicians while also providing incumbent training to upskill the current EV workforce.”
AIDT will measure the success of the EV Technology Center by the ability to support both new workers and current employees in the industry, helping companies remain competitive as the industry evolves. Developing strong partnerships with EV manufacturers and suppliers will be critical for the center.
At AIDT, workforce innovation isn’t just a priority — it’s a promise. And with the EV Technology Center rising at RTP, Alabama is accelerating toward the future of advanced manufacturing.
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