Governor Pat McCrory, N.C. Commerce Secretary John E. Skvarla III and the Economic Development Partnership of N.C. announced BlueScope Buildings North America will be expanding its facility in Scotland County and creating 115 new jobs over the next three years. The company plans to invest $9.2 million in the city of Laurinburg over the same period.
“Manufacturing continues to be one of North Carolina’s bedrock industries,” said Governor McCrory. “BlueScope Buildings’ expansion of its manufacturing operation in Scotland County shows its commitment to continue to grow in our state.”
BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc. is a subsidiary of Australia-based BlueScope Steel, Ltd. The company provides engineered building solutions for non-residential construction through its industry leading brands-Butler Manufacturing and VP Buildings. The company currently has more than 140 employees in North Carolina.
“BlueScope Buildings recognizes the value and talent of North Carolina’s manufacturing workforce,” said Secretary Skvarla. “Nothing compares to the quality of workers we have in our state.”
Salaries will vary by job but will include fabrication & detail, welding, and assembly. The average annual salary will be $38,393. The average annual salary for Scotland County is $32,716.
“We are excited to announce the expansion of our Laurinburg plant,” said Dan Kumm, President BlueScope Buildings North America. “We have a long standing history of operations in North Carolina dating back nearly 50 years with both our building brands, Butler Manufacturing and VP Buildings, and we look forward to growing our presence in a state that is dedicated to working closely with industry to develop talent in manufacturing.”
The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $402,500. 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.
“Congratulations to BlueScope Buildings for its decision to add these new jobs to Scotland County,” said Senator Tom McInnis. “I look forward to working with Governor McCrory to bring more jobs like these to our region.”
“Jobs that pay above the county average will be a huge boost to our area’s economy,” said Representative Garland Pierce.
“Scotland County can always use more good jobs,” said Representative Ken Goodman. “These new jobs at BlueScope Buildings will be a great addition to our workforce and this expansion will broaden the tax base in Scotland County.”
In addition to the N.C. Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of N.C., other partners that helped with this project include: North Carolina Community College System, NCWorks, NC Revenue, Duke Energy, North Carolina's Southeast, Scotland County Economic Development Corporation and Scotland County.