During the last five years, U.S. and foreign companies have flocked to Alabama. The credit goes to low taxes, top-grade schools, and a statute that curbs union power, as well as local and state incentives.

According to Greg Canfield, Alabama Secretary of Commerce, "2011 is the best year we have had in terms of manufacturing jobs and activity since 2007. The percentage of our workforce in manufacturing has jumped to 12% from 5%.

Companies that are set to open new plants include German conglomerate ThyssenKrupp and a Chinese manufacturing giant, Golden Dragon Precise Copper of China.

The automobile industry continues to expand. Our area will experience spin-off industry from the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.

Carpenter Technology Corporation which has broken ground in Limestone County is expected to create 4,879 jobs and $1.6 billion in capital investment over the next 2 - 3 years. The company chose Alabama out of 250 worldwide locations.

"Accelerate Alabama" is a state plan to aggressively court manufacturers in 11 business sectors over the next five years. A few of the sectors include automotive, aerospace, agricultural products, information technology and bioscience.

The incentive package that Alabama offers in terms of tax abatements, labor training programs and infrastructure grants is very compelling to companies.

Our city government is also futuristic in their recruiting efforts for these companies.

Our area can certainly sell management on the quality of life for their employees. The pristine beauty and the accessibility to large metropolitan areas are enticing.

It is so exciting to see our entire community working together for a common cause - improving the quality of life for all citizens.