North Wake News

Today, Governor Josh Stein announced that Chatsworth Products, Inc. (CPI), a manufacturer of IT equipment, will expand its facility in New Bern, Craven County. The expansion involves an investment of $11 million and the creation of 45 new jobs.

Governor Stein remarked on the significance of this development for North Carolina's economy: “Our state’s ability to support manufacturing operations in all corners of the state will continue to grow our economy and ensure the benefits of that growth are more broadly shared across North Carolina,” he said. He added that CPI's decision to reinvest in Craven County highlights North Carolina as a favorable business environment with a skilled workforce.

Chatsworth Products is known for producing infrastructure hardware and equipment for information and communication technology industries globally. As a 100% employee-owned company, CPI focuses on engineering solutions related to thermal, power, and cable management for data centers. The expansion at the New Bern location aims to boost production capacity and introduce new product lines.

Ted Behrens, CEO of Chatsworth Products, expressed commitment to customer needs: “This expansion in New Bern underscores our dedication to meeting customer needs while strengthening our role as a trusted partner in the IT and telecommunications industries,” he stated.

N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted North Carolina's appeal: “Chatsworth’s decision to expand is the result of what works well in North Carolina,” Lilley said. He emphasized the state's skilled workforce and innovative leadership as factors contributing to its status as a growing tech hub.

The new positions created by this expansion include roles such as machine operators, packers, and warehouse staff. The average annual wage for these positions is projected at $50,224, surpassing Craven County's average wage of $48,770. This could result in an annual payroll impact exceeding $2.2 million for the region.

A performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund will assist Chatsworth Products with its expansion efforts. This fund supports local governments in attracting economic investments and job creation by providing financial assistance contingent upon meeting specific targets.

N.C. Senator Bob Brinson welcomed these developments: “These new jobs are a welcome addition to our region,” he said. Representative Steve Tyson also expressed gratitude towards those involved: “We’re grateful for the diligent professionals as well as the state, regional and local officials that helped the company with its decision.”

Several partners played key roles in facilitating this project alongside Chatsworth Products including the North Carolina Department of Commerce; Economic Development Partnership; General Assembly; Community College System; NC East Alliance; Craven County entities like Craven Community College; Southeast division; Craven 100 Alliance; and Duke Energy.