MASSENA -- Alcoa Chairman and CEO Klaus Kleinfeld and U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer celebrated the restart of Alcoa’s East Plant today in Massena, supervising a ceremonial pouring of first metal from the smelter.

Kleinfeld also announced a new partnership with Clarkson University to promote education in the community.

“Today we are celebrating another milestone in the long history between Alcoa and the Massena community,” Kleinfeld said. “This restart is an example of how government and a corporation can work together to help secure jobs in the North Country. We are grateful for the support of Senator Schumer and proud to have him join us today. And we deeply appreciate all the efforts of the Governor’s office, the New York Power Authority and all of the other local, state and federal leaders who helped make today possible.”

The Massena East plant has the capacity to produce 125,000 metric tons of aluminum annually. The restart began on March 1 and included the rehiring or hiring of 120 employees.

"After a recession-induced hiatus, Alcoa is re-emerging stronger than ever -- and not a moment too soon for the 120 workers who will soon be back on the job at this North Country industrial powerhouse,” Sen. Schumer said. “I am ecstatic to be part of today's celebration. The restart of Alcoa's East Plant is great news for Massena, St. Lawrence County and the American economy. Alcoa is fundamental to the region's economy and restarting this facility means that brighter days are ahead. I will assist Alcoa and the community in any way I am able and look forward to continued job expansion at this plant.”

To reinforce Alcoa’s commitment to the community, Kleinfeld presented Clarkson University President Tony Collins with a $56,400 Alcoa Foundation grant to support the Alcoa Fellows Program at Clarkson. The Alcoa Fellows will assist local teachers in delivering cutting-edge science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) curriculum.