By WILL PERKINS
Glasgow News 1
Charles Huang, chief executive officer of Contemporary Amperex Technology Kentucky, said his company has invested in Barren County since 2020.
“We’ve been trying to bring jobs and create jobs for this community,” he said. “Also, to transform the industry, bring high-tech, advanced manufacturing technology to this area.”
CATK acquired a Glasgow property in December 2020 with the intention of establishing a battery operation. But in August 2023, the company placed the property for sale.
At the time, Maureen Carpenter, president and CEO of the Barren County Economic Authority, said while they were disappointed that this particular project wasn’t proceeding, they were still looking forward to working with the company in the future.
Last Friday, CATK donated $20,000 to the Barren County Chamber Foundation’s leadership program.
“It will help to develop the leadership of our next generation,” Huang said. “I think it will at least help the next generation understand the trend of the economy, also the industry development, so that they understand how they can help bring the economy to develop further more in this area, in this county.”
The foundation’s two leadership programs — Lead Forward and Leaders of the Future — have more than 300 graduates “who continue to make meaningful contributions across the community,” according to a Barren Inc. press release.
“Graduates frequently go on to serve on nonprofit boards, lead civic initiatives, support charitable causes, and pursue elected office,” the release states. “Helping strengthen the long-term vitality of Barren County.”
During the recent check presentation at Barren Inc.’s office in Glasgow, Carpenter spoke about a previous conversation she had with CATK. She said when the company sold their Glasgow property last year, they wanted to give back to the area in some way.
“When they sold the building, they wanted to do something for the community,” Carpenter said, adding that she suggested supporting a program that helps inspire the future leaders of the community.
“This is how we develop our boards,” she said. “A lot of our boards come from the leadership program.
“So this is very exciting. We’re very appreciative.”
When asked about future investments in the community, Huang said they are partnering with other companies “around this area” to make a battery energy storage system.
“It’s going to be very beneficial for the state of Kentucky,” he said. “Also for the whole industry in the U.S., too.”
Charles Huang, chief executive officer of Contemporary Amperex Technology Kentucky, presents a $20,000 check to the Barren County Chamber Foundation on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Barren Inc. office in downtown Glasgow. This money is to be used for the chamber’s leadership program. Will Perkins/Glasgow News 1
