On Thursday, March 19th the Economic Development Commission held a Forum on the growing manufacturing sector of Alternative Energies.  Representatives from the Appalachian State University Energy Center were on site to discuss possible industrial manufacturing components. (www.energy.appstate.edu)

EDC Director, Tom Johnson stated, "We were really excited to see local industrial interest in this new market development.  We feel this is a great area to explore that fits with our strong manufacturing base."

Local industries had the opportunity to look at samples of possible manufacturing parts as well as discuss their own interests in this sector and where they feel they are best situated to expand into new products.

Mike Saunders with Isothermal Community College also stated that "it was interesting to know that Rutherford County was positioned 4th in the state strategically for supplying the materials like plastics, metal fabrication bearings and etc. to companies that need the component parts for their alternative energy products like solar panels and wind mills.

The alternative energy area appears to be an industry with the highest growth and highest demand."

If you would like additional information or were unable to attend, please contact either Tom Johnson (248-1716) or Mike Saunders (286-3636, ext. 399)