Gov. Bev Perdue today announced that Advanced Textile Solutions Inc., a regional company specializing in fabric products for the military, automotive, aerospace and marine markets, will open a new plant in Caldwell County. The company plans to create 127 jobs and invest $500,000 during the next three years in Sawmills. The project was made possible in part by a $127,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund.
“North Carolina is strongly committed to the aerospace and military sectors and remains very attractive to companies seeking the ideal location to serve those strategically key markets,” Gov. Perdue said. “Our state’s skilled workforce, custom training programs and top-rated business climate create the perfect platform for businesses to succeed, grow and create new jobs and investment.”
Advanced Textile Solutions is a sister company of American Technical Solutions Inc., headquartered in Walkertown. The company produces custom-sewn fabric products for a variety of markets. The new facility will produce military apparel and gear, and products for commercial aircraft seating.
Salaries will vary by job function, but the annual average wage for the 127 new jobs will be $19,111, not including benefits.
“Advanced Textile Solutions Inc. chose North Carolina because of its business-friendly programs, which are essential in helping companies to expand their operations during these tough economic times,” said company Vice President Gettys Knox. “Caldwell County was chosen because of its skilled workforce, manufacturing expertise and the tremendous show of support from the community. Assistance provided by the local commissioners, the local economic development team and Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute also helped solidify our decision to locate here.”
The One NC Fund provides financial assistance, through local governments, to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state. Companies receive no money up front and must meet job creation and investment performance standards to qualify for grant funds. These grants also require and are contingent upon local matches.
North Carolina continues to have a top-ranked business climate. Through Gov. Perdue’s JobsNOW initiative, the state works aggressively to create jobs, train and retrain its workforce, and lay the foundation for a strong and sustainable economic future.
Through use of the One NC Fund, more than 40,000 jobs and $7 billion in investment have been created since 2001. Other partners who helped with this project include: the N.C. Department of Commerce, N.C. Community Colleges and Caldwell County.
For more information about employment opportunities with Advanced Textile Solutions Inc., contact the Lenoir Employment Security Commission office at (828) 757-5622.