The economic landscape of rural North Carolina is set for a significant boost as Governor Josh Stein, along with the NC Department of Commerce, have unveiled plans to create over 800 new jobs across several counties. This initiative reflects a concerted effort to bring the fruits of economic growth to the more remote areas of the state, often overshadowed by the burgeoning metropolitan hubs.
In a statement obtained by the North Carolina Office of the Governor, Governor Stein expressed his excitement, "I am excited to see over 800 new jobs coming to small town North Carolina." Stein heralds these developments as an acknowledgment of the skilled manufacturing workforce in rural parts of the state, an area he believes is ripe for investment and expansion. Not only are these jobs a sign of growth, but they represent, in the Governor's eyes, a leveling of the playing field that allows prosperity to seep into every county and corner of North Carolina.
Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley shared a personal connection to the project, "I was born and raised in rural North Carolina, so I know that there are great opportunities for companies to expand in every community in this state." Lilley, alongside Governor Stein, is keen on tapping into these opportunities to foster job creation throughout the region, as per the North Carolina Office of the Governor.
The investments strategically target various sectors and regions within North Carolina's rural landscape. Syntec Precision Technology Corporation is laying down roots with a new production and warehouse facility in Henderson, aiming to create 34 new jobs with an $8 million investment. Hoke County is set to see a more substantial job surge, with Pennsylvania Transformer Technology, LLC expanding its manufacturing scope in Raeford, ushering in 217 new jobs and pouring more than $102.5 million into the local economy. Craven County will benefit from 45 new positions thanks to Chatsworth Products, Inc, bolstered by an $11 million investment to upscale their New Bern facility. Provalus is not far behind, with plans to invest $6.48 million into Chowan County via a new Center of Excellence in Edenton, promising 61 new jobs. Lastly, Columbus County stands to gain 151 jobs as Barrier Fencing Supply sets up its headquarters and manufacturing center.
The NC Rural Infrastructure Authority also plays a pivotal role, having approved 13 grant requests that will pave the way for 785 jobs, 414 of which had been previously announced. This collaboration between state departments and corporations indicates a turning of the tide for rural North Carolina, providing the potential for a more diverse and resilient economic base. Further information detailing the distribution of these jobs and the specific impacts they may have on their respective communities can be found on the North Carolina Office of the Governor's official news release.
