Corning expands North Carolina cable production for AI data centers
(UI) — Corning and Meta have started construction on an expanded optical cable manufacturing facility in Hickory, North Carolina, aimed at supporting growing demand for fiber infrastructure tied to AI data centers.
The project is part of a multiyear agreement valued at up to $6 billion, under which Corning will supply optical fiber, cable and connectivity solutions for Meta’s expanding data center footprint. The Hickory site will serve as a key production hub, with Meta acting as the anchor customer.
The expansion reflects increasing demand for high-capacity fiber networks that support large-scale data processing and AI applications, placing new pressure on domestic manufacturing of cable and connectivity components.
“As America advances its lead in AI, the infrastructure we build today will determine whether we stay ahead tomorrow. High-performance connectivity is at the heart of this work,” said Dan Sachs, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy – State and Local. “Our partnership with Corning supports our goal of strengthening domestic manufacturing, supporting good jobs in North Carolina, and building a foundation for the next era of American innovation.”
Corning said the new facility will expand its manufacturing footprint in North Carolina, where the company already employs more than 5,000 workers. The project could increase its workforce in the state by 15% to 20%.
“Today we are breaking ground on a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in a critical next step for strengthening the domestic supply chain for AI data centers,” said Hal Nelson, Chief Operating Officer, Corning Incorporated. “Our expansion here in Hickory also opens a new chapter in our longstanding partnership with Meta. It’s a great example of the kind of collaboration Corning values most – helping our customers solve tough challenges by working together to move at the speed and scale that delivers the solutions they need.”
The facility is expected to produce optical cable used in high-capacity data networks, including infrastructure that supports hyperscale data centers.
“As Corning celebrates its 175th year, our partnership with Meta and today’s groundbreaking underscore the importance of our investments in U.S. manufacturing,” said Mike O’Day, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Corning Optical Communications. “North Carolina has been central to Corning’s optical manufacturing leadership for decades, supported by a highly skilled workforce and the strong, long-standing backing of state and local leaders. We’re grateful for those partnerships and proud to continue expanding advanced manufacturing capacity here to support the next generation of AI infrastructure.”
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