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  • Corning and Meta Celebrate Start of Construction on Cable Manufacturing Expansion in North Carolina to Support AI Buildout

    CORNING, N.Y. | Corning Incorporated | March 31, 2026 New capacity will supply advanced data centers with U.S.-made technology Corning Incorporated  (NYSE: GLW) and  Meta Platforms, Inc.  (Nasdaq: META) today marked the start of construction on a significant expansion of Corning’s optical cable manufacturing capacity in Hickory, North Carolina, reinforcing their collaboration to support the buildout of advanced AI data centers using technology developed and manufactured in the United States.  The groundbreaking marks a milestone in the multiyear, up to $6 billion agreement between Corning and Meta to accelerate the deployment of the most advanced data centers in the U.S. and to support Meta’s apps, technologies, and AI objectives. Under the agreement, which was announced in January of this year, Corning will supply Meta with its newest innovations in optical fiber, cable, and connectivity solutions. Meta will serve as the anchor customer for the Hickory expansion, which will produce optical cable critical to AI infrastructure. “As America advances its lead in AI, the infrastructure we build today will determine whether we stay ahead tomorrow. High-performance connectivity is at the heart of this work,” said Dan Sachs, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy – State and Local. “Our partnership with Corning supports our goal of strengthening domestic manufacturing, supporting good jobs in North Carolina, and building a foundation for the next era of American innovation.”  “Today we are breaking ground on a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in a critical next step for strengthening the domestic supply chain for AI data centers,” said Hal Nelson, Chief Operating Officer, Corning Incorporated. “Our expansion here in Hickory also opens a new chapter in our longstanding partnership with Meta. It’s a great example of the kind of collaboration Corning values most – helping our customers solve tough challenges by working together to move at the speed and scale that delivers the solutions they need.”  Corning, which currently employs more than 5,000 people in North Carolina, will expand manufacturing capabilities across the state to support the agreement with Meta. The expansion could increase Corning’s employment levels in the state by 15 to 20 percent, reinforcing North Carolina’s role as a manufacturing hub for optical fiber and cable. “As Corning celebrates its 175th year, our partnership with Meta and today’s groundbreaking underscore the importance of our investments in U.S. manufacturing,” said Mike O’Day, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Corning Optical Communications. “North Carolina has been central to Corning’s optical manufacturing leadership for decades, supported by a highly skilled workforce and the strong, long‑standing backing of state and local leaders. We’re grateful for those partnerships and proud to continue expanding advanced manufacturing capacity here to support the next generation of AI infrastructure.” About Corning Incorporated  Corning ( www.corning.com ) is one of the world’s leading innovators in materials science, with a 175-year track record of life-changing inventions. Corning applies its unparalleled expertise in glass science, ceramic science, and optical physics along with its deep manufacturing and engineering capabilities to develop category-defining products that transform industries and enhance people’s lives. Corning succeeds through sustained investment in RD&E, a unique combination of material and process innovation, and deep, trust-based relationships with customers who are global leaders in their industries. Corning’s capabilities are versatile and synergistic, which allows the company to evolve to meet changing market needs, while also helping our customers capture new opportunities in dynamic industries. Today, Corning’s markets include optical communications, mobile consumer electronics, display, automotive, solar, semiconductors, and life sciences Originally published at https://www.corning.com/worldwide/en/about-us/news-events/news-releases/2026/03/corning-and-meta-celebrate-start-of-construction-on-cable-manufacturing-expansion-in-north-carolina-to-support-ai-buildout.html

  • Manufacturing Solutions Center Renews ISO/IES 17025 Accreditation

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 31, 2026 The  Manufacturing Solutions Center (MSC) , a division of  Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) , is proud to announce the successful renewal of its ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation.  This renewal was granted by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), a global leader in accreditation services, following a comprehensive evaluation of the center's laboratory management and technical operations. ISO/IEC 17025 is the international standard for testing and calibration laboratories. By maintaining this accreditation, the MSC demonstrates its ongoing commitment to technical competence and its ability to produce precise, accurate, and globally recognized test data. "Renewing our ISO 17025 accreditation with ANAB reinforces our role as a trusted partner for U.S. manufacturers," said Jeff Neuville, Director of the Manufacturing Solutions Center. "This 'gold standard' ensures our clients that the results they receive are meeting the highest levels of quality and reliability, which is critical for their success in a competitive global market". The MSC’s accredited scope covers a wide range of specialized testing services essential for the textile, furniture, and personal protective equipment (PPE) industries. Key areas of focus include: Textile & Legwear Performance: Comprehensive testing for apparel, hosiery, socks, and textile-related products, including abrasion resistance, colorfastness, and stretch. Furniture Structural Testing: Rigorous evaluation of furniture durability and safety in accordance with BIFMA standards. PPE & Mask Validation: Critical testing for the efficacy of medical gowns, masks, and other protective equipment in the MSC's dedicated PPE Resource Lab. Physical & Chemical Analysis: Assessment of tensile strength, flammability, pH levels, and antimicrobial properties. The mission of the Manufacturing Solutions Center is to help U.S. manufacturers increase sales, improve quality, and improve efficiency, leading to the creation and retention of US manufacturing jobs.  By providing accredited testing, the MSC helps companies navigate regulatory requirements, such as CPSC third-party testing, and verify product claims for major retailers and marketplaces. Part of Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, NC, the Manufacturing Solutions Center provides testing, prototyping, and business incubation services to support the growth of manufacturing companies. With an emphasis on textiles and emerging technologies, MSC fosters innovation and economic development throughout the region.  To learn more about the MSC visit www.manufacturingsolutionscenter.org . ###   Jeff Neuville Director, Manufacturing Solutions Center   Manufacturing Solutions Center 301 Conover Station SE, Conover, NC 28613  828.327.7000 x 4102 | www.manufacturingsolutionscenter.org

  • Wanzl Announces Expansion and Investment in Catawba CountyCompany will invest $15M and create 10 new high-skill positions

    NEWTON, N.C. – Wanzl North America, a leading solution provider and global manufacturer of retail equipment, and holding the market position of being the largest manufacturer of shopping carts in North America, has announced a significant renovation at its Catawba County facility. With almost four decades of presence in Newton and Catawba County, the German-owned company is set to invest at least $15 million over the next three years, introducing state-of-the-art production technologies to support the growing global market for retail solutions. The investment will create a minimum of 10 new high-skill positions with an average salary of $52,172.  The renovation will not only enhance the company's manufacturing capabilities but also significantly upgrade the facility's employee amenities, including a new, redesigned cafeteria and lounge. This investment underscores Wanzl's commitment to innovation, growth, and its employees in the region. "We are thrilled to continue our investment in Catawba County," said Ben Hinnen, CEO of Wanzl North America. "This expansion demonstrates our commitment to our employees, our belief in the region’s potential, and our continuous improvement mindset. The Newton facility has always been critical for our business, and we are excited for the next phase of growth." Randy Isenhower, Chair of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, said, "Wanzl's decision to expand here reinforces Catawba County's position as a prime location for global businesses. We are proud of our longstanding partnership with them and look forward to supporting their continued success." Mayor Eddie Haupt of the City of Newton added, "This is a monumental moment for both Newton and Catawba County. Wanzl's commitment to expand and innovate here speaks volumes about the collaborative spirit and business-friendly environment we've fostered. We're excited for the opportunities this brings to our community." Frank Young, Chair of the Catawba County EDC Board of Directors, commented, "This investment by Wanzl is a clear indication of the robust business environment and skilled workforce we have cultivated in Catawba County. Their expansion will undoubtedly spur further economic growth and solidify our reputation as a hub for leading manufacturers." The Catawba County Board of Commissioners and the Newton City Council both held public hearings earlier this month and approved local incentives in support of this expansion. In addition to Catawba County, other key partners in the project included the City of Newton, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, NC Commerce, the NC Community College System, Cushman Wakefield, and Catawba County Economic Development Corporation.  About Wanzl North America Wanzl North America (formerly Technibilt Ltd), located in Newton, North Carolina, is a leading B2B solution provider for Retailers. Founded in 1946 and acquired by Wanzl GmbH & Co. KGaA in 2012, Wanzl North America is the leading manufacturer of shopping carts and enhances retailer’s customers’ shopping experience through superior solutions in design, innovation and customer service. The parent company, Wanzl GmbH & Co. KGaA, is an owner-managed family company in its third generation, with over 4,600 employees, global production sites and sales outlets. Together, Wanzl offers over 100,000 products, solutions, and innovations. Visit Wanzl North America at www.wanzl.com/na . Media Contact: Catawba County Economic Development Corporation Nathan Huret 828-267-1564 nhuret@catawbacountync.gov

  • Round Four REDI Sites Designations Bring New States into the National Program

    Originally published at https://siteselectorsguild.com/redi-sites-round-four/ REDI Sites , a site readiness verification program created by the Site Selectors Guild, has announced its Round Four designations, recognizing 17 industrial sites that have met the program’s criteria for investment rea diness. This round marks a major milestone in the growth of REDI Sites: Michigan, Mississippi, New Mexico, Ohio, and Oklahoma previously had no designated REDI Sites. With this announcement, the newly designated sites become the first REDI Sites in their states—expanding the national map and strengthening coverage for consultants evaluating opportunities across regions. Round Four also includes a notable redesignation: the Rockcastle Megasite in Mt. Vernon, Kentucky advanced from Bronze to Silver after using program feedback to complete additional due diligence and strengthen documentation. The redesignation reflects measurable progress in investment readiness and highlights how communities can use REDI Sites as a roadmap for continuous improvement. Round Four Designated Sites Platinum Las Cruces Innovation and Industrial Park (Las Cruces, NM) Shoals Research Airpark (Muscle Shoals, AL) Gold Bluegrass Innovation Gateway (Harrodsburg, KY) Claremont International Rail Park (Claremont, NC) I-85 Corporate Center (Lexington, NC) Industria Centre Site #3 (Muncie, IN) Moberly Area Industrial Park (Moberly, MO) Pathway Park (Chilhowie, VA) Railhub South (Corinth, MS) Silver Ecorse and Belleville Road Rail Park (Belleville, MI) Mississippi River Inland Port Complex (Vicksburg, MS) ParkEast Site (Goldsboro, NC) Rockcastle Megasite (Mt. Vernon, KY) Sage Mill Site 6 (Aiken, SC) Bronze Fair Oaks Industrial Park (Tulsa, OK) Fostoria Industrial Site (Fostoria, OH) McKeown Property Site (Moberly, MO) What’s Next REDI Sites will continue evaluating additional candidate sites through upcoming rounds. Communities interested in participating can learn more about the process, documentation expectations, by contacting Nicki Dallison at Nicki@SiteSelectorsGuild.com About REDI Sites REDI Sites is a site readiness verification program created by the Site Selectors Guild to provide a standardized, consultant-informed approach to evaluating industrial site readiness. The program helps communities identify gaps, strengthen documentation, and increase visibility to the site selection community.

  • $500K Golden LEAF Foundation funding equips nursing simulation lab at App State Hickory

    By Courtney Roberts Posted March 3, 2026 at 1:25 p.m. at https://today.appstate.edu/2026/03/03/golden-leaf BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University has been awarded $500,000 in funding from the Golden LEAF Foundation, which supports the establishment of a nursing simulation and clinical learning lab at the App State Hickory campus . App State senior nursing major Kimber Blackburn, left, practices her nursing skills under the direction of Dr. Melinda Bogardus, assistant professor in the Department of Nursing, as part of a hands-on exercise in the Beaver College of Health Sciences’ Healthcare Simulation Lab, located in the Levine Hall of Health Sciences. Funding from the Golden LEAF Foundation will support the creation of an additional nursing simulation and clinical learning lab, located at the App State Hickory campus. Photo by Chase Reynolds “Our nursing program is grateful for the Golden LEAF Foundation’s generous support,” said Dr. Marie Huff, dean of the Beaver College of Health Sciences . “The modern nursing simulation space at the Hickory campus will enable App State to offer advanced clinical training opportunities and help support the region’s workforce needs by graduating highly skilled nursing professionals.” The lab will serve as a controlled environment where students of the university’s Doctor of Nursing Practice-Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP) program , launching this fall, can develop and refine crucial clinical skills. The space will also benefit the university’s growing pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) program and serve as a hub for interprofessional health care education. Funds from Golden LEAF will be used to outfit the lab with simulation equipment and advanced clinical tools. “By supporting these advanced training environments, we are helping to build a workforce pipeline that will give students hands-on experience that directly translates to real-world health care jobs,” said Golden LEAF President and CEO Scott T. Hamilton. “The Golden LEAF Foundation is pleased to support the nursing simulation and clinical learning lab at the App State Hickory campus.” Addressing NC’s health care workforce shortage According to Sheps Health Workforce NC , approximately one-fourth of North Carolina counties do not meet the recommended ratio of primary care providers to residents. Shortages often disproportionately impact rural areas. App State’s DNP‑FNP program is designed to help strengthen the nursing pipeline across the state and region. The program’s part‑time, hybrid format — 11 semesters, 76 credit hours and 1,000 clinical hours — makes advanced study accessible to nurses across all 100 North Carolina counties and beyond. The Hickory campus lab will be App State’s second; the Beaver College of Health Sciences currently operates a health care simulation lab in Levine Hall on the Boone campus. Both labs will play a key role in creating opportunities for nursing students throughout the state. About the Golden LEAF Foundation The Golden LEAF Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1999 to receive a portion of North Carolina’s funding from the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement with cigarette manufacturers. Golden LEAF has worked to increase economic opportunity in North Carolina’s rural and tobacco-dependent communities through leadership in grantmaking, collaboration, innovation and stewardship as an independent and perpetual foundation. In fiscal year 2025, Golden LEAF helped create 1,665 jobs, more than $116 million in new payrolls and more than 4,722 workers trained or retrained for higher wages. Learn more at https://goldenleaf.org/ . About the Beaver College of Health Sciences Appalachian State University’s Beaver College of Health Sciences (BCHS), opened in 2010, is transforming the health and quality of life for the communities it serves through interprofessional collaboration and innovation in teaching, scholarship, service and clinical outreach. The college enrolls more than 3,600 students and offers 10 undergraduate degree programs, nine graduate degree programs and four certificates across seven departments: Kinesiology, Nursing, Nutrition and Health Care Management, Public Health, Recreation Management and Physical Education, Rehabilitation Sciences, and Social Work. The college’s academic programs are located in the Holmes Convocation Center on App State’s main campus and the Levine Hall of Health Sciences, a state-of-the-art, 203,000-square-foot facility that is the cornerstone of Boone’s Wellness District. In addition, the college supports the Appalachian Institute for Health and Wellness and has collaborative partnerships with the Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s Physician Assistant Program, UNC Health Appalachian and numerous other health agencies. Learn more at https://healthsciences.appstate.edu . About University Advancement Appalachian State University’s Division of University Advancement supports and encourages the university’s mission by engaging alumni, friends and the greater community. University Advancement staff help connect these constituents with Appalachian through one-on-one contact and special programming, thereby securing the resources necessary to create the best possible learning environment for Appalachian students and to positively impact the community, region and state. The division incorporates the offices of Alumni Affairs, Development and the Appalachian State University Foundation Inc. Learn more at http://give.appstate.edu . About Appalachian State University As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu .

  • Brandon Holland hired as assistant city manager of Newton, North Carolina

    Experienced municipal leader looks forward to collaboration, innovation NEWTON, NC—The City of Newton proudly announces the hiring of Brandon Holland, ICMA-CM, as assistant city manager. Holland comes to Newton with more than a decade of experience managing municipal governments and a proven track record of driving advances in financial management, economic growth, capital improvements, and leadership development. Holland most recently held the position of senior planner and project manager with Destination by Design, a multidisciplinary economic development firm in Boone that plans, develops, brands, and promotes destination-quality recreation and tourism assets. Prior to his time with Destination by Design, Holland managed the North Carolina towns of Biscoe, Ayden, and Murfreesboro, garnering accolades as a collaborative executive, motivational leader, and strategic relationship manager. In Newton, Holland will work closely with residents, the business community, city council members, department directors, and City Manager Sean A. Hovis to implement strategic initiatives, enhance service provision, and give new perspective to ongoing projects that are building the city's bright future. Mayor Jerry T. Hodge said Newton stands to benefit from the depth of Holland's local government experience and the innovative approaches he has implemented in communities across North Carolina. "I'm confident that Brandon's interest in building community, coupled with his visionary leadership style, will dovetail with the strategic vision set by Newton City Council and implemented under the leadership of City Manager Sean Hovis," Hodge said. "I look forward to seeing Brandon add to the long list of recent successes we've achieved in Newton, and I welcome him to our city." "Brandon is an exceptional addition to our team," Hovis said. "I'm looking forward to working with him as we embrace development aimed at making Newton better for everyone who lives and works here." "I'm grateful for this opportunity to serve as assistant city manager for the City of Newton," Holland said. "I look forward to collaborating with talented city staff and dedicated city council members to support the Newton community." Holland is a graduate of of Appalachian State University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in political science with a minor in communication and a Master of Public Administration degree. He currently serves as president of the Appalachian State Local Government Alumni Association. He is a credentialed manager through the International City/County Managers Association, and he holds certificates from the School of Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill through both the Public Executive Leadership Academy and Leading for Results. He is the host of the  Lead Well podcast, a leadership and personal development show focused on inspiring students and leaders to be their best. Holland's first day as Newton's assistant city manager will be June 10. ### Media contact: Alex Frick Communications & Marketing Director City of Newton, North Carolina o. 828.695.4266 | c. 828.409.7408 www.newtonnnc.gov

  • Coley, LLC announces $9M expansion creating 40 new jobs

    CLAREMONT, N.C. – Coley, LLC, a unique direct-to-consumer furniture company, has announced a significant expansion at its Catawba County site. The facility has been in Claremont for over 5 years manufacturing custom residential furniture and employs over 60 employees. The company is set to invest at least $9 million over the next three years and will create a minimum of 40 new positions with an average salary of $61,818, exceeding the county’s average wage of $54,280. This investment underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, growth, and its employees in the region. "We could not be more excited to build a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility adjacent to our current facility," said Coley Hull, Owner of Coley, LLC. "This expansion will support our continued growth and our mission to share an exceptional North Carolina craft with the world." Randy Isenhower, Chair of the Catawba County Board of Commissioners, said, "The continued growth of the furniture industry in Catawba County highlights the value and the importance of supporting long-standing companies that continue to invest in our community. These investments sustain jobs, strengthen supply chains, and keep Catawba County competitive." Mayor Shawn R. Brown of the City of Claremont added, "As the Mayor of Claremont, I want to express our gratitude to Coley, LLC for their expansion and dedication to our city. We’re grateful for their confidence in our community and their ongoing commitment to growth here." Jeff Cline, Chair of the Catawba County EDC Board of Directors, commented, "The expansion of Coley, LLC highlights the advantages of operating in a community with a strong workforce and a collaborative business climate. We view this growth as an important step that will help generate additional opportunities across the county.” Public hearings for local incentive consideration are slated for January by the Catawba County Board of Commissioners and the Claremont City Council.  ### Media Contact: Catawba County Economic Development Corporation Kimberly Propst 828-267-1564 kpropst@catawbacountync.gov

  • North Carolina Named No. 1 in Site Selection Magazine's Annual Workforce Development Rankings

    Community colleges play a central role in driving state's workforce success; the N.C. Community College System's Economic Development programs power employer-driven talent pipelines statewide RALEIGH, N.C., Jan. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- North Carolina has been ranked No. 1 in Site Selection Magazine's annual Workforce Development Rankings, reinforcing the state's reputation as a top destination for business investment and talent-driven growth. Site Selection Magazine is one of the most widely read and trusted publications serving corporate real estate executives, site selectors and economic development professionals worldwide. Its annual Workforce Development Rankings are closely watched by companies making location and expansion decisions, evaluating states on factors such as workforce readiness, training capacity, labor quality and alignment between education and industry needs. North Carolina's top ranking reflects the strength of its workforce ecosystem, anchored by the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) , a network of 58 colleges serving all 100 counties. Through programs including NCEdge Customized Training , ApprenticeshipNC , the Small Business Center Network   and BioNetwork , the System works directly with employers to deliver industry-aligned training that supports both expansion and competitiveness. The Site Selection nod comes just months after North Carolina was named CNBC's "Top State for Business" (2025) , an honor that highlighted the state's robust and dynamic business climate across key sectors such as life sciences, advanced manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, defense, technology and food and beverage production. "This recognition affirms what companies experience every day when they locate and grow in North Carolina," said Dr. Jeff Cox , president of NCCCS. "Our workforce development model is built on strong partnerships, local responsiveness and a clear focus on employer needs, which gives North Carolina a decisive advantage." John Loyack , vice president of economic development for NCCCS, said the ranking reinforces the System's role as a strategic partner to industry. "Our colleges operate at the intersection of education and economic development," said Loyack. "We work side by side with employers to solve real workforce challenges, whether that means launching a new facility, adopting advanced technologies or upskilling an existing workforce." Central to this succe ss is NCEdge , the Sy stem's customized training program, which partners with businesses across the state to provide tailored workforce solutions. In the past four years alone, NCEdge has trained more than 100,000 North Carolinians, helping employees master new technologies and improve productivity. "From aerospace to biotech, NCEdge enables companies to grow by developing their workforce in ways that are targeted, scalable and measurable," added Loyack. "Our results demonstrate how workforce development fuels economic growth for communities statewide." During the 2024-25 fiscal year, NCEdge supported  319 workforce development projects serving nearly 850 companies, and upskilled more than 30,000 trainees. Major projects included partnerships with next-generation aviation manufacturer JetZero, pioneering biotech firm Genentech, Amazon, and global materials company PPG, helping create nearly 16,000 new jobs and drive $16 billion in capital investment. In addition to customized training, the System delivers a coordinated set of workforce solutions that support employers across industries and regions: ApprenticeshipNC  expands registered apprenticeship throughout the state by combining paid, on-the-job learning with classroom instruction to strengthen talent pipelines and improve workforce retention. The Small Business Center Network  provides counseling, training and access-to-capital support to entrepreneurs and small businesses, helping drive job creation and local economic growth in communities statewide. BioNetwork  further strengthens the state's workforce ecosystem by delivering specialized training, biomanufacturing support and applied research services that enable life sciences and biotechnology companies to innovate and scale. Together, these programs deliver employer-driven workforce solutions across North Carolina, supporting companies from startup through expansion. Site Selection's annual Workforce Development Rankings evaluate states based on factors such as training programs, labor quality and workforce readiness. North Carolina's No. 1 ranking highlights its ability to align education, industry and economic development to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy. About the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) The North Carolina Community College System is the engine for workforce development in North Carolina and the only public entity dedicated to providing affordable college access to anyone in the state. The System is governed by the N.C. State Board of Community Colleges with administration from the N.C. Community College System Office, and support from the N.C. Community Colleges Foundation, and is powered by the 58 community colleges and their respective foundations. Together, the System serves 600,000 students and awards more than 60,000 degrees, diplomas and certificates annually. For more information, visit: www.nccommunitycolleges.edu . About NCCCS Economic Development The North Carolina Community College System's Economic Development programs provide education, training and business support services to new, expanding and existing employers across all 100 counties. Delivered through the state's network of 58 community colleges, these programs help companies develop talent, adopt new technologies, strengthen productivity and build long-term competitiveness. Key initiatives include NCEdge Customized Training, which delivers employer-driven upskilling and reskilling; ApprenticeshipNC, which expands registered apprenticeship through paid, work-based learning; the Small Business Center Network, which supports entrepreneurs and small businesses through counseling and training; and BioNetwork, which provides specialized workforce training and biomanufacturing support for the life sciences sector. Together, these programs form an integrated workforce development model that supports North Carolina's economic growth statewide. Learn more at www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/businesses . SOURCE: North Carolina Community College System

  • Corning to expand in NC after $6B Meta deal to accelerate data center development

    Corning Inc. (NYSE: GLW) is significantly expanding its optical cable manufacturing presence in North Carolina. The move comes as a result of a major deal with  Meta Platforms Inc.  (NASDAQ: META), which is now the anchor customer at Corning's Hickory cable plant. Corning and Meta have announced a multiyear deal worth up to $6 billion to accelerate U.S. data center development. Under the deal, Corning will supply its latest optical fiber, cable and connectivity products to Meta in order to support data center growth. Corning will expand across the state, but a significant capacity expansion is coming at the company's Hickory plant at Trivium Corporate Center in Catawba County. Click here to read the rest of the story in the Charlotte Business Journal

  • Industry Pulse Newsletter - February 2026 - Volume18, Issue 1

    MFGCON - NC Manufacturing Conference • NC State IES Doosan Bobcat Networking Event and Facility Tour • Catawba County Public Health • Click here to read the newsletter.

  • Industry Pulse Newsletter - June 2025 - Volume 17, Issue 2

    Foreign Trade Zone Information Session • Click here to read the newsletter .

  • Industry Pulse Newsletter - March 2024 - Volume 16 Issue 2

    CLT Alliance Manufacturing Council • NC Commerce Reentry Initiative • Xplore64 & K64 • Click here to read the newsletter.

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