Here’s the press release from the office of Gov. Pat McCrory:
Governor Pat McCrory and N.C. Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker announced today that Elkamet Inc. is expanding its North Carolina manufacturing operations in Henderson County. The company plans to create 20 new jobs and invest more than $2.5 million over the next three years in East Flat Rock.
“We are continuing to make North Carolina a destination to grow a business through jobs-friendly economic policies,” said Governor McCrory. “I applaud Elkamet for choosing Henderson County for their expansion, and we look forward to working with them as a strategic partner.”
Elkamet Inc. produces extruded profiles from industrial polymer materials for the automotive industry as well as PA/PE/XPE tanks for fuel and hydraulic systems which are used in utility vehicles and motorcycles. Elkamet currently employs 54 full-time workers in western North Carolina.
“When Governor McCrory took office in 2013, he pledged to revitalize our state and make North Carolina more attractive for business once again,” said Secretary Decker. “Companies like Elkamet know firsthand that our state means business, and we welcome this expansion in Henderson County.”
At its four sites across the world, Elkamet employs more than 700 staff, including 77 trainees and participants on the dual study program “StudiumPlus.” The commitment, the competence and the high level of identification of the employees with the Elkamet philosophy form the basis for high-quality, technologically outstanding products that set standards.
Salaries will vary by job function, but the average annual wage for the new jobs will be $36,400 plus benefits. The Henderson County average annual wage is $33,824.
“The consideration of our East Flat Rock location for this project is based on a very committed and fast-learning workforce out of Henderson County,” said Artur Bitner, plant manager, Elkamet Inc.
The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $24,000. 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.
“We’re committed to partnering with companies to increase the number of jobs and products made right here in western North Carolina,” said Senator Tom Apodaca. “Elkamet is a great corporate citizen that is actively engaged in the Henderson County community. We wish them continued success in North Carolina.”
“Creating jobs and promoting economic development in Henderson County has been my top priority,” said Representative Chris Whitmire. “I commend the hard work of Governor McCrory, Secretary Decker and the Legislature for helping make this project a reality. It looks like our tax reform efforts are already showing tangible results — by fostering business growth and opening pathways for good-paying jobs.”
Partners that helped with this project include: the N.C. Department of Commerce, N.C. Community Colleges, Blue Ridge Community College, Henderson County and the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development.
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