OP Mobility to Lay Off 82 Workers at Spring Hill Facility

Issue #578

October 08, 2025

In this What’s Up Columbia issue…

⛅️ Columbia’s Thursday Weather - Sunshine & clouds w/ high of 75, low of 51

📰 OP Mobility to Lay Off 82 Workers at Spring Hill Facility

📌 Columbia State Invites Middle Schoolers to Explore STEM Careers at Oct. 25 Event

🗓 List of Upcoming Events
 
🎵 This Week’s Live Music

🗓 Know of Some Local Events Not Listed? Send us the Details!

OP Mobility to Lay Off 82 Workers at Spring Hill Facility

Just over a year after announcing a $3 million expansion of its Spring Hill facility, OP Mobility has filed notice with the state that it will lay off 82 employees next month.

The notice, filed with the Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development, indicates that the layoffs are permanent and will take effect on November 21.

In June 2024, the France-based company had announced plans to expand its operations in Spring Hill, a move that was expected to add 186 new jobs. OP Mobility manufactures components used in electric vehicle production lines and has been part of Tennessee’s growing electric vehicle industry, which has created thousands of jobs and attracted billions in investment statewide in recent years.

State workforce officials confirmed that the Southern Middle Local Workforce Development Area rapid response team has been notified and will coordinate assistance for the affected employees. Those impacted can reach the Dislocated Worker Unit at 615-253-6355 for support and resources.

Columbia State Invites Middle Schoolers to Explore STEM Careers at Oct. 25 Event

Columbia State Community College will host its STEM Within Reach event on October 25 at the Columbia Campus, designed to inspire middle school students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.

“STEM Within Reach is more than just a science event — it’s a passion project of Columbia State faculty and staff who love sharing science,” said Ryan Badeau, associate professor of physics. “Our goal is to bring hands-on science experiences to middle school students right here in Middle Tennessee.”

Open to 6th–8th graders, the one-day event offers interactive workshops in areas such as animal science, astronomy, chemistry, engineering, and technology. Students will move through various stations led by Columbia State faculty and guest presenters, learning about STEM fields and career opportunities.

“Our last event featured drone flight, chemistry flame tests, Python coding, and even a cow eyeball dissection,” said Bobbie West, associate professor of engineering and physics. “We also partnered with Columbia Police and Fire & Rescue to show how technology helps keep our communities safe.”

Parents and teachers can attend an informational tour about STEM resources and career paths. Wi-Fi and lounge areas will be available throughout the day.

The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Waymon L. Hickman Building. Registration is $20, with limited financial assistance available through a scholarship sponsored by the Tennessee Valley Authority. Space is limited.

For details or to register, visit here or email [email protected].

Upcoming Local Events

🗓 Have an event to add? Send us the Details!

Wednesday, October 8th

Thursday, October 9th

Friday, October 10th

Saturday, October 11th

Sunday, October 12th

Monday, October 13th

👇 Click the Links to Learn About our Local Business Sponsors! 👇

🎵 This Week’s Live Music

Thursday, October 9

Todd Ciprian – Tito’s Spring Hill, 6–9 PM
The Grove Trio – Whiskey Alley Saloon, 7:30–9 PM

Friday, October 10

TBA – The Spot: Burgers & Beers, 5–8 PM
Kamber – Buck & Board, 6–9 PM
The Nature Project – McCreary’s, 7–9 PM
Rory Feek – Homestead Hall, 7 PM
Taylor Hughes – Puckett’s, 7:30–9 PM
Christian Chapman – Whiskey Alley Saloon, 7:30–9 PM
Escape – Fozzy’s Bar & Grill, 8–11 PM

Saturday, October 11

The Grasskickers – Keg Springs Winery, 2–5 PM
Box of Rox – Amber Falls Winery & Cellars, 3–7 PM
TBA – Buck & Board, 5–8 PM
The Def Leprechaun Band – McCreary’s, 7–9 PM
Karli & James – Puckett’s, 7:30–9 PM
Mainstreet Vinyl – The Rebel Bar & Grill, 7:30 PM
Fall Series – The Bourbon Gospel, 7:30 PM
No Fun Intended – Fozzy’s Bar & Grill, 8–11 PM

Sunday, October 12

The Sins – Amber Falls Winery & Cellars, 1–5 PM

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