Manufacture Alabama on Monday announced the appointment of Karen Johnston, Toyota North America’s regional director of governmental affairs, to the association’s board of directors.
Johnston has served in numerous roles throughout her 22-year career at Toyota North America in government affairs, corporate communications and human resources. She has overseen the implementation of communications strategies for media, community and government leaders.
In her current capacity, Johnston actively works to influence state legislative issues of importance to Toyota and coordinates with stakeholders to promote policies that benefit the company.
A major source of economic activity in the Tennessee Valley, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama (TMMAL) holds an investment of $1.2 billion at its 1.3 million-square-foot Huntsville plant.
TMMAL in October 2021 began production of its hybrid electric-powered twin-turbo V6 and gas-powered twin-turbo V6, which brought the company’s total Rocket City workforce to 1,800.
In a release, Manufacture Alabama president George Clark asserted that the appointment would serve to bolster the association’s positive impact on its membership.
“Karen’s appointment to the board of directors affirms the commitment of Manufacture Alabama to a diverse and inclusive board, not only in board members, but in the industries represented,” advised Clark. “With representation from seven industry sectors, and a vision to make Alabama the best place to be a manufacturer, I am confident that our current Board is equipped to guide us into the future and enhance our role as the voice of Alabama’s manufacturers.”
Johnston touched on the Yellowhammer State’s robust automotive manufacturing industry.
“I am honored to represent the automotive industry on the Manufacture Alabama board,” stated Johnston. “The automotive industry in Alabama is a pillar in the state’s economy, which is why it is a critical state for Toyota and other automakers. Collectively, our team members, suppliers and dealers have the expertise to set industry standards.”
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
