Advanced Munitions International LLC (AMI) is investing $553.6 million to build a global headquarters and state-of-the-art munitions manufacturing facility in Alcoa, TN. The single largest business expansion in the firearms industry in recent history, the new facility is expected to create over 600 new jobs.
“I want to thank AMI for their substantial investment in Tennessee and for the more than 600 jobs they will create in Blount County,” said Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam said Oct. 20. “This is an industry leader creating jobs that require a highly skilled workforce, as we continue toward our goal of becoming the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high-quality jobs.”
AMI, formally known as Advanced Tactical Armament Concepts (ATAC), will manufacture products for the BlackOps, Emcon and HPR Ammunition brands at the factory. It expects to break ground this spring on the 300,000-square foot facility at a 235-acre site in Alcoa’s Partnership Park. The plant is expected to open in the fourth quarter of 2018.
AMI executives cited the proximity and resources of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory as a deciding factor in choosing Tennessee as home for their manufacturing, distribution and R&D operations, said Jim Antich, AMI founder and executive chairman.
“When we looked nationally for a site to build this facility, Tennessee stood out as a place with leaders that understand and support strong business growth,” said Antich. “Having a resource like Oak Ridge National Laboratory nearby also attracted us to Tennessee and Blount County. We are looking forward to a long relationship with Tennessee and to working with our new neighbors.”
Kresser added, “Tennessee has become a leading center of high-tech manufacturing in the country and AMI brings opportunities to a workforce that wants to excel. AMI is investing significant financial resources that will add to the economy in the area while offering quality jobs and stability for families.”
AMI’s Alcoa plant will hire primarily chemists and engineers with backgrounds in metallurgy, engineering, physics and energetics technology.
