In this May 2019 photo, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey announces 650 new jobs in Limestone County through a $220 million investment by Y-tec Keylex Toyotetsu Alabama. YKTA is an automotive parts supplier for Mazda-Toyota Manufacturing USA.

A new Tier-1 auto supplier for the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing U.S.A. plant in Limestone County will bring 650 new jobs as part of a $220 million investment, officials said Wednesday.

A groundbreaking ceremony for Y-tec Keylex Toyotetsu Alabama was attended by Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and a spate of other state, regional and local officials. Dubbed YKTA, the venture represents a collaboration between three existing Japanese automotive suppliers — Y-tec, Keylex and Toyotetsu.

YKTA, which will produce body and chassis components, is the second on-site partner announced for MTMUS. Another on-site supplier, DaikyoNishikawa US, recently announced plans to build a $110 million plant and hire 380 workers.

“As our three companies collaborate, our vision is to be the supplier of choice,” said YKTA President Ryuji Fujimoto. “We want everyone in Alabama to be proud of us.”

To show their appreciation and commitment to the community, Fujimoto also announced a donation of $10,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of North Alabama, which will be used to expand robotics programs in five area clubs.

YKTA and Ivey joined other state and local officials and members of the business community for a groundbreaking ceremony. A representative explained that beyond merely sticking a shovel in dirt for a photo, they wanted to honor traditional Japanese groundbreaking ceremonies by asking for blessings for the people of YKTA, MTMUS and other supplier partners while also praying for good health during construction.

“This is another opportunity for us to be able to demonstrate how valuable this project is, and this joint venture between Mazda and Toyota,” said Greg Canfield, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “… It’s another demonstration that Alabama is open and ready to do business, and our automotive sector is going to continue to thrive in North Alabama.”

Ivey called it “a great day in Alabama,” adding the state is currently projected to become the No. 2 producer of automobiles in the nation.

“Today’s announcement signals the bright future still ahead for Alabama,” she said. “To put it simply, Alabama business is on a roll, and we don’t plan on stopping any time soon. Our success is rooted in strong teamwork, and we’re so proud (YKTA has) chosen to be in Sweet Home Alabama.”

YKTA has already started hiring professionals in the area. For a list of available job opportunities, visit https://bit.ly/YKTAjobs.