AvCraft Technical Services, an aircraft maintenance, repair and modification provider, today announced plans to expand its current operations in Horry County. The $1 million investment is expected to generate 150 new jobs.
“Location was a major factor in choosing to expand operations here. Myrtle Beach gives us a centralized location to most efficiently reach our customer base,” said Mike Hill, president of AvCraft. “Horry County officials and the Myrtle Beach Regional EDC made expanding here a very easy process.”
AvCraft will expand its facility in Myrtle Beach to help the company increase its aviation MRO services.
“It’s another great day in South Carolina, and we are going to celebrate AvCraft’s decision to expand and create 150 new jobs in Horry County. Bringing jobs and investment to our state continues to be a top priority of this administration, and we will build on this year’s success in 2012,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.
Since 2009, Commerce has recruited more than $1.1 billion in capital investment and more than 7,000 jobs in the aerospace and aviation sector.
“AvCraft’s announcement shows that our state’s aerospace and aviation sector is continuing to create new jobs. Expansions are proof that South Carolina’s business-friendly climate offers an environment where companies can grow,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.
“AvCraft's decision to expand their workforce by 150 employees is a tremendous testimony of our attractiveness as an aviation destination. I am thankful for the company's commitment to Horry County and proud of our economic development team for this terrific announcement,” said Tom Rice, chairman of the Horry County Council.
“AvCraft is a tremendous asset to our community, and this project is just the beginning for aviation-related businesses locating and expanding in the Myrtle Beach region,” said Doug Wendel, chairman of the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation (MBREDC).
The state’s Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved Horry County for a $100,000 grant for this project.
The majority of the 150 new employees will be in technically skilled occupations, and the remaining new hires will be in administrative and support functions. Anyone interested in employment opportunities with this company should visit www.avcraft.com.
About AvCraft Technical Services
AvCraft provides airframe heavy maintenance, line maintenance, paint and modification services on ATR 42 and 72, Dash 8, Dornier 328 and other commercial aircraft for airlines, leasing companies and corporate operators from the US, Canada, the Caribbean, Latin America and Europe. With a highly motivated, well-trained work force that includes maintenance technicians and support staff, the company operates from a 130,000 sq ft facility at Myrtle Beach International Airport. This facility includes hangars, back shops and a double bay paint shop adjacent to a 400,000 sq ft aircraft ramp area. AvCraft has partnered with affiliate company Indaer to provide engineering, maintenance planning, technical services and field support to operators and leasing companies around the globe. In 2010 AvCraft and Indaer supported 46 customers from 14 countries in North and South America, Europe and Asia. More information is available at www.avcraft.com.
About S.C. Department of Commerce
As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing businesses grow. This year, Commerce won the Gold Shovel Award and the Deal of Year Award from Area Development magazine. Commerce has been part of recruiting world-class companies to South Carolina such as Boeing, Bridgestone, Continental, Monster.com, Heinz, ZF Group, BMW and Google Inc. Commerce also supports small and existing business, rural development initiatives and offers grants for community development. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.