Alabama State University, Callan JMB and Bia Power Systems have formed a strategic joint venture to establish an advanced transformer and electrical-equipment manufacturing and assembly operation in Brewton. The $60 million investment is expected to expand domestic production capacity for equipment serving the nation’s power-infrastructure needs.
“This venture brings together manufacturing expertise, an Alabama operating base and workforce-development capabilities around a clear national need,” said Wayne Williams, president and CEO of Callan JMB, an integrated logistics and infrastructure services company supporting the healthcare industry, emergency-management agencies and other organizations responsible for maintaining essential operations. “It directly advances the strategy behind Callan Power by expanding domestic access to transformers and other essential electrical equipment.”
The manufacturing operation is planned for an ASU-owned facility in Brewton. At full capacity, the venture is projected to support more than $150 million in annual manufacturing revenue, with commercial sales targeted to begin within nine months following groundbreaking.
“Alabama State University is proud to support an initiative that brings advanced manufacturing workforce development and economic opportunity together,” said Quinton Ross Jr., president of Alabama State University. “This collaboration demonstrates how higher education and private industry can work together to prepare talent, strengthen communities and contribute to Alabama’s future growth.”
During the first year of production, the facility is expected to have between $25 million and $40 million in revenue, increasing to the $150 million projection by year three.
The project is expected to create between 150 and 250 direct jobs in Alabama.
“Demand for reliable electrical infrastructure continues to accelerate across utility, industrial, renewable-energy and data-center markets,” said Brandon Wu, CEO of Bia Power Systems LLC, which specializes in power infrastructure solutions, electrical-system integration and advanced technologies supporting utility, industrial, commercial and government customers. “The planned Brewton facility will position the venture to deliver high-quality, domestically manufactured products while helping customers address supply constraints and support grid modernization.”
Planned operations will include advanced automation, modern quality-control processes, testing capabilities, warehousing and logistics designed to improve product availability. Products will include transformers, power-distribution equipment, switchgear and electrical systems.
This is the second project partnership between ASU and Callan JMB. They recently broke ground on the Marion 9 Biomanufacturing Center at the Atlas Complex. Callan JMB will provide operational infrastructure supporting future pharmaceutical manufacturing activities, including logistics, compliance, warehousing, facility leasing, supply chain management and related operational services, while ASU will support workforce training, applied research and technology commercialization.
The Marion 9 Biomanufacturing Center is expected to create 150 direct positions across biotechnology, engineering, research and advanced manufacturing while supporting approximately 300 indirect jobs through construction, logistics, supplier networks and regional business activity.
