M.C. Dean, Inc., a global cyber-physical systems integration and engineering company, today announced plans to expand operations in Charleston County. The $7.3 million investment will create 126 new jobs.

With a presence in South Carolina for over 25 years, M.C. Dean, Inc. designs, builds, operates and maintains cyber-physical solutions for mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure and global enterprises. The company specializes in electrical, electronic security, audio visual, information technology, telecommunications, life safety, automation and command and control systems.

Located in the Remount Business Park in North Charleston, M.C. Dean, Inc. is constructing a new 25,000-square-foot facility which will service its defense, technology, manufacturing and healthcare customers.  The new facility will provide space for additional offices, engineering, simulation, testing labs and warehousing. Featuring open interior and exterior work, collaboration and recreation spaces, the facility will promote employee health, wellness and sustainability.

The new facility will be completed by spring 2022. M.C. Dean, Inc. is actively growing its local workforce. Engineers, project managers and technicians interested in joining the team should visit M.C. Dean, Inc.’s careers webpage.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to this project.

QUOTES

“By more than doubling our electrical, electronic security, audio visual and IT systems evaluation, integration and testing lab capacity while expanding our regional employment, we’re able to deliver immediate value to our customers’ quality, reliability and performance outcomes. South Carolina’s wealth of technical talent combined with its strong economic development environment make it an attractive location for our ongoing business investment.” -M.C. Dean Chief Executive Officer Bill Dean

“South Carolina’s talented and well-trained workforce is why companies like M.C. Dean, Inc. find success here. We congratulate this great company on this announcement, and we look forward to continuing this partnership for years to come.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“We congratulate M.C. Dean, Inc. on this latest expansion in Charleston County. This new investment, which will create 126 jobs, further proves that our state has the business climate companies look for to find success.” -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Charleston County continues to provide the right business environment for companies to flourish. We welcome M.C. Dean, Inc.’s investment and the employment opportunities available to our citizens.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“We are confident that M.C. Dean’s global reach will benefit greatly from its presence within business-friendly North Charleston.  Perfectly positioned to meet the company’s high demands and a workforce capable of fulfilling M.C. Dean’s laudable ambitions.  We look forward to future company success here in the City of North Charleston.” – North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“Charleston County is fortunate to have M.C. Dean join the ranks of our growing defense and technology ecosystem. Our business-friendly climate and strong workforce will provide advantages for M.C. Dean to prosper.” – Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• M.C. Dean, Inc. is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The $7.3 million investment will create 126 new jobs.
• C. Dean, Inc. is a cyber-physical systems integration and engineering company.
• Located in the Remount Business Park in North Charleston, S.C.
• Engineers, project managers and technicians interested in joining the M.C. Dean team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

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Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC, a part of the global Mercedes-Benz Vans production network, announced plans to build the next generation eSprinter van in Charleston County. The company will invest around $59 million.

Based on a new Electric Versatility Platform announced at the end of 2020, the next generation of the eSprinter targets new customer segments and markets, including the USA and Canada. The eSprinter van will be built in three locations: North Charleston, Düsseldorf and Ludwigsfelde in Germany.

Located at 8501 Palmetto Commerce Park in North Charleston, Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC assembles the world’s leading large van – the Sprinter. The company has operated its current van assembly operations in North Charleston since 2006 and has assembled more than 200,000 Sprinter and Metris vans and delivered them across the United States.

Production of the eSprinter is expected to start by second half of 2023. Individuals interested in joining the Mercedes-Benz Vans team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

“Our North Charleston plant will be the first to bring the next generation of the eSprinter to the United States. We are proud that we have earned the trust of the company to produce this vehicle as an important pillar of the Mercedes-Benz Vans production network. We are also grateful for the continued support from the state of South Carolina and Charleston County in the development of our facility and our team who have worked hard to reach this milestone in our growth. The next generation eSprinter will support a sustainable future for the company and the environment, and we look forward to this investment in our Charleston team and facility.” – Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC President & CEO Arnhelm Mittelbach

“As the electric vehicle market continues to accelerate, South Carolina is at the forefront of this movement. Team S.C. is thrilled that Mercedes-Benz Vans’ next generation of eSprinters will be manufactured within our borders. This announcement speaks volumes not only about our pro-business environment, but also about the quality of our talented workforce. We thank Mercedes-Benz Vans for their continued commitment to our state and to the people in the Charleston community.” -South Carolina Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Mercedes-Benz Vans’ announcement is an economic gamechanger for our community. This is a product of diligent planning and the result of a fruitful relationship with the company. Charleston County is fueled in innovation and will now be the only U.S. location to produce the next generation eSprinter. We applaud the company’s efforts to lead in the field of electromobility and the sustainability of our future.” – Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“Mercedes-Benz Vans sits at the forefront of sustainability and innovation with the tremendous investment into its state of the art, battery-electric vehicle technologies.  The eSprinter will revolutionize the commercial vehicle industry, and our regional workforce stands ready and capable to meet the demand. With the automotive sector at a turning point, we are proud to have Mercedes-Benz Vans, a pillar in our community, leading the way.” – North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“We have been privileged to be partners with Mercedes-Benz Vans for almost two decades. Their decision to produce the eSprinter in Charleston County is a vote of confidence in our community, as the company continuously invests in the Palmetto Commerce Park plant and workforce. Their announcement further proves Mercedes-Benz Vans reputation as an industry leader in automotive engineering. We are proud the next evolution of the automotive industry will occur in Charleston County.” – Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC is building the eSprinter in Charleston County.
• The company is investing $59 million.
• Mercedes-Benz Vans eSprinter will begin production by second half of 2023.
• Company’s plant is located at 8501 Palmetto Commerce Park in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Mercedes-Benz Vans team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For more than two decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industry in order to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/

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T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ: TMUS) (T-Mobile), one of the largest wireless network operators in the country, will expand its operations in Charleston County. The $10.2 million investment in its Customer Experience Center will create up to 540 new jobs, bringing the Charleston County location to a total of approximately 1,540 full-time employees.

Headquartered in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile delivers a large and fast nationwide 5G network that offers reliable connectivity for customers. Through its award-winning Team of Experts service model, T-Mobile offers customers a dedicated team of highly trained experts based on location, a critical piece of its Un-Carrier strategy – allowing the company to deliver a high-quality customer care experience.

T-Mobile’s decision to expand its customer care team in the region is a testament to the quality of Charleston County’s talent and resources, and an investment in the company’s commitment to providing high quality customer care.

Located at 8571 Rivers Avenue in North Charleston, T-Mobile expanded its Customer Care Center by 44,350 square feet to accommodate the company’s growing customer care team.

Upgrades to the facility were completed in late spring of 2020. Individuals interested in joining the T-Mobile team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

“T-Mobile is customer obsessed, and we are so excited that the Charleston community will continue to play a huge role in helping us show even more customers our Un-carrier love! We are so excited for what’s to come as we expand our operations and team in Charleston, and we can’t wait to tap into the tremendous talent this area has to offer.” –T-Mobile Executive Vice President of Customer Care Callie Field

“South Carolina continues to be a place where companies can establish business and prosper, and today’s announcement certainly speaks to that reputation. We celebrate T-Mobile’s growth and their decision to expand their footprint within our borders.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“When globally recognized brands like T-Mobile are able to operate in South Carolina and find success, it shows that the Palmetto State is open for business. T-Mobile’s commitment to South Carolina with this latest investment will have an impact in Charleston County and the entire state for years to come.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“We have proven ourselves, locally and nationally, as a destination to call on for business growth. Congratulations to T-Mobile on their notable expansion in Charleston County.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“The expansion of T-Mobile gives us confidence that North Charleston remains a ripe environment for businesses to flourish.  We applaud the company’s success and are thankful for the capital investment and job creation within our community.” – North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“The announcement of T-Mobile demonstrates our investment in supporting and fostering growth within our existing businesses. Our Business Concierge team was able to expeditiously support T-Mobile’s needs, helping to facilitate this exciting expansion for the City of North Charleston.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FAST FACTS

• T-Mobile US, Inc. (T-Mobile) is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• T-Mobile is one of the largest wireless network operators in the country.
• The $10.2 million investment will create up to 540 new jobs.
• The Customer Experience Center is located at 8571 Rivers Avenue in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the T-Mobile team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For more than two decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industry in order to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/

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Omatic Software, a data integration company, announced plans to expand operations in Charleston County. The $450,000 investment will create approximately 100 new jobs over the next five years.

Founded in 2002, Omatic Software provides data health and integration solutions for nonprofits by democratizing data access and insight. The company services thousands of nonprofit organizations with innovative integration solutions to eliminate manual processes and provide up-to-date and complete data.

Located at the Portside Ferry Wharf in Mount Pleasant, Omatic Software’s expansion will serve as the company’s corporate headquarters and will be its main hub for software research and development, as well as sales and operations. The expansion was completed in late 2020. Individuals interested in joining the Omatic Software team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

“About five years ago, I moved to Charleston to lead and grow a small organization. The Charleston community and its infrastructure have made it possible for Omatic and the tech industry to flourish through its business-friendly policies and collaboration. I have grown to appreciate the unique combination of industry and culture that Charleston has to offer – that unique combination I expect will continue to serve Omatic and the tech industry well, drawing more talent to the region.” –Omatic Software CEO Dan Kim

“Our state has become an ideal destination for businesses looking to grow, and the fact that companies like Omatic Software continue to find success here is proof of that. This investment that will create approximately 100 new jobs for our citizens is a big win for Charleston County, and I look forward to watching this company’s continued success.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Omatic Software’s decision to expand in Charleston County is further indication that our state’s skilled workforce and business-friendly climate are working to help existing businesses grow and compete. The company’s continued commitment to Team South Carolina will have a lasting effect on the community and the state for years to come.” -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Desirable amenities and a talented workforce make our community an enticing location for technology-based companies. Omatic Software’s expansion will further propel Charleston County as the tech hub of South Carolina. Congratulations to Dan Kim and the Omatic team!” -Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“We welcome Omatic Software to our prosperous and business-friendly coastal community. Their data integration company is exactly the type of enterprise we like to see locate and expand in Mount Pleasant, putting high-quality jobs in close proximity to our residents, while diversifying our tax base with corporate headquarters operations.” -Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie

“Charleston County continues to offer the right ecosystem for tech companies to thrive. We are thrilled Omatic Software is investing in this community, and we will stand ready to support their continued growth.” – Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Omatic Software is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The $450,000 investment will create approximately 100 new jobs over the next five years.
• Omatic Software is a data health and integration company that serves the nonprofit sector.
• Located at the Portside Ferry Wharf in Mount Pleasant, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Omatic Software team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For more than two decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industry in order to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/

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Ray-Mont Logistics, a fully integrated logistics company, today announced plans to establish operations in Charleston County. The more than $16 million investment will create 85 new jobs.

Established in 1992 in Montreal, Canada, Ray-Mont Logistics serves as a one-stop shop​ for a variety of logistical needs and enhances the customer experience on a global scale.

Located at 1000 Remount Road in North Charleston, Ray-Mont Logistics’ new facility will increase the company’s capacity and logistical capabilities to better serve its clients.

The new facility is expected to be completed by spring 2021. Individuals interested in joining the Ray-Mont Logistics team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits related to this project. Charleston County was also awarded a $750,000 Set-Aside grant to assist with costs related to this project.

“Ray-Mont Logistics is proud to partner with the South Carolina Ports Authority (SCPA) and the state of South Carolina with the establishment of this new facility, which is the latest undertaking of terminal expansion throughout the United States. The Port of Charleston and the key advantages it brings to the North American supply chain will serve to complement our existing facilities, providing a strategic gateway to reach key global markets for exporters. We are honored to join the community of Charleston, and through investment and job creation in the years to come, Ray-Mont Logistics is committed to providing further economic growth and generating new career opportunities for citizens within the community.” -Ray-Mont Logistics CEO Charles Raymond

“When a great company like Ray-Mont Logistics chooses to establish operations in South Carolina, it’s yet another testament to the fact that our state is open for business. Congratulations on this new investment in the Charleston County community, and we look forward to Ray-Mont Logistics’ success for many years to come.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Logistics companies are right at home in South Carolina. Ray-Mont Logistics’ new facility in Charleston County will help a variety of industries export products around the world and succeed in a globally competitive marketplace.” -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Ray-Mont Logistics’ mission of facilitating international trade by enhancing the container supply chain is a welcome addition to South Carolina’s export transload sector. SC Ports looks forward to partnering with Ray-Mont Logistics through our reliable operations, ample capacity and big-ship capabilities at the Port of Charleston.” -SC Ports President and CEO Jim Newsome

“Our world-class assets continue to be a driving factor in site selection. Ray-Mont Logistics recognized that Charleston County is positioned to move product efficiently and in a cost-effective manner. This is an important investment for our area, and we congratulate all parties involved.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Teddie Pryor

“Ray-Mont Logistics innovative expertise of fully integrated logistics is a welcomed addition to the North Charleston business community, as they further bolster our city’s economic strength.   We look forward to seeing the growth of Ray-Mont within our region and beyond.” – North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“Ray-Mont Logistics’ international presence and commitment to being a leader in logistics services make them an excellent fit for our community. We strive to foster a receptive, business-friendly ecosystem designed for optimal growth opportunities. Our team is ready to assist Ray-Mont as they will undoubtedly succeed in their new home in Charleston County.” – Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Ray-Mont Logistics is establishing operations in Charleston County.
• More than $16 million investment will create 85 new jobs.
• Ray-Mont Logistics is a fully integrated logistics company.
• Located at 1000 Remount Road in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Ray-Mont Logistics team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

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Charleston County Economic Development released their new look and brand during the 2021 Industry Appreciation event held virtually on January 28th. 

When building a new brand and logo, the steps taken forth are critical. It started with a conversation around who and what Charleston County Economic Development really was and is, leading to dozens of drafts,  conversations, and edits. Throughout the process of defining the strengths and weaknesses, this further developed the brand in a way that we begin to see the shape of today. Charleston County Economic Development is more than just economic development, it is helping to define our culture, how the stories of the past and present collide, and how we use these intertwined pieces to shape a global economy. Through a process with many reviews, stakeholders, and conversations, we see the brand presented today, this brand speaks to partnership, a global future, and further development of this great county. 

“The strong linear Double C (CC) in the logo represents the strength of Charleston County’s economic development. The strength of each C represents the uniqueness of Charleston’s communities and economy. Nearly intertwined, but uniquely their own, each ‘C’ has a critical role in promoting the growth of the overall region. Charleston County Economic Development is in the unique position to bring regional stakeholders together in a harmonious fashion for the forward advancement of the region. As a true partnership, the organization is moving everyone forward while Shaping Charleston’s Global Future.”

View the YouTube video for the brand launch: https://bit.ly/CCEDBrand 

Vikor Scientific, LLC, a molecular diagnostics company, today announced plans to expand operations in Charleston County. The $1 million investment will create 148 new jobs.

Founded in 2018, Vikor Scientific, LLC specializes in antibiotic stewardship and tangible solutions for the practice of value-based medicine in the treatment of infectious disease. The company provides clinicians with advanced molecular methodology for pathogen detection, quantification and resistance gene identification.

Located at 22 Westedge Street in Charleston, Vikor Scientific, LLC’s expansion will increase the company’s capacity to assemble and distribute both COVID-19 and full molecular panel testing kits across the country.

The expansion is expected to be completed by January 2021. Individuals interested in joining the Vikor Scientific, LLC team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

“The prior backorder of testing supplies was crippling for the U.S. during the beginning of the pandemic, and no one wants to experience that again. This expansion will help us to continue to stay ahead and increase the production of our testing kits for both COVID and our other infectious disease molecular panels by the hundreds of thousands, which is vital as we enter the sick season.” –Vikor Scientific Co-Founder Shea Harrelson

“Vikor Scientific, LLC’s expansion and the 148 new jobs it will create will have a huge impact in Charleston County and across the state. We couldn’t be more excited to continue this partnership and watch them succeed here for years to come.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Team South Carolina works hard to offer businesses a strong foundation to foster growth and be successful. Vikor Scientific, LLC’s decision to expand in Charleston County is an indication that we are doing it right, and we look forward to supporting this great company every step of the way.” -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Charleston County offers an environment supportive of innovation, which is a catalyst for our growth in the life sciences industry. We welcome Vikor Scientific’s expansion, as it will have a positive impact on our economy with the creation of 148 new jobs.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“As we continue to respond to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, the remarkable work of companies like Vikor Scientific has proven critical to keeping our citizens healthy and safe. Not only will this expansion create 148 new jobs in Charleston, but it will increase our ability to provide COVID-19 tests to those who need them throughout the state and across the country. On behalf of the citizens of Charleston, I’d like to thank Vikor Scientific for the lifesaving work they do in our community and wish them Godspeed as they continue to expand operations.” –Charleston Mayor John J. Tecklenburg

“Vikor Scientific is a young company making a monumental impact within the life sciences industry, and we are grateful this important work is happening in our backyard. Congratulations to Vikor Scientific on this significant expansion and we look forward to our continued partnership.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Vikor Scientific, LLC is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The $1 million investment will create 148 new jobs.
• Vikor Scientific, LLC is a molecular diagnostics company.
• Located at 22 Westedge Street in Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Vikor Scientific, LLC team should visit the company’s careers webpage.

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Carver Maritime, LLC, an industrial port known for its shipping and warehousing storage operations, today announced plans to expand its existing operations in Charleston County. The more than $27.8 million investment will create 50 new jobs.

Founded in 2016, Carver Maritime, LLC has a deep-water pier for loading and offloading ships and barges, along with more than half a million square feet of warehousing space. Additionally, the company accommodates ships carrying cargo such as salt, break bulk, gypsum and stone aggregates.

Located at 1801 Shipyard Creek Road in North Charleston, Carver Maritime, LLC’s expansion will include the construction of a new 120,000-square-foot building to support its stevedoring, warehousing and supply chain business.

The expansion is expected to be completed by 2025. Individuals interested in joining the Carver Maritime, LLC team should contact hr@carvercompanies.com.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved a $200,000 Set-Aside grant to Charleston County to assist with costs of site preparation and construction.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has created many challenges for small businesses like ours, but I want to give credit to both the county and state economic development officials for being responsive to these changes. Since expanding our business operations to North Charleston back in 2016, we’ve experienced a friendly pro-business environment that has allowed our business to grow. We could have expanded our operations in New York or our facilities in Florida, but local officials partnered with us which will allow us to create more jobs and help raise the per capita income in the Charleston area.” –Carver Companies President and CEO Carver Laraway

“We are always excited when one of our existing businesses chooses to increase its footprint in South Carolina. We celebrate Carver Maritime, LLC’s decision to expand and create 50 new jobs in Charleston County.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“We congratulate Carver Maritime, LLC on this expansion, which adds to the continued success they’ve experienced in South Carolina. This latest investment further proves that our state has the business climate and logistics capabilities companies are seeking.” -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“The growth of Carver Maritime, LLC in its short tenure in Charleston County has been truly notable. We are thrilled that they continue experiencing so much success, and their decision to invest more than $27.8 million and create 50 new jobs in North Charleston is great news.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“The ability to efficiently import and export goods into our region is an asset to the economy we rely upon, creating jobs and investment in our community. We are happy to see these benefits expanding in the city of North Charleston.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey 

“It’s remarkable to witness a company expanding in back-to-back years. Our Business Concierge team assisted in 2019, and returned in 2020 to facilitate another expansion for Carver Maritime, LLC. We appreciate Carver Maritime’s commitment to Charleston County, and look forward to a long-term relationship.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Carver Maritime, LLC is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The more than $27.8 million investment will create 50 new jobs.
• Carver Maritime, LLC is an industrial port known for its shipping and warehousing storage operations.
• Located at 1801 Shipyard Creek Road in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Carver Maritime, LLC team should contact hr@carvercompanies.com.

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Defense Engineering Services (DES), a service-disabled veteran-owned small business, today announced plans to expand operations in Charleston County. The more than $1.1 million investment will create 18 new jobs.

Founded in 2013, DES specializes in survivability, vehicle systems and mechanical engineering. The company provides technical, design and manufacturing services for government and private companies across the country, delivering technical solutions, test services, prototype fabrication and low-rate manufacturing for large and small projects.

Located in North Charleston, the expansion of DES will increase the company’s manufacturing and storage capacity, while providing additional office space and resources for engineering and design team members.

The expansion is expected to be completed by 2025. Individuals interested in joining the DES team should visit http://www.defengserv.com/contact-us.html.

“We started DES in South Carolina and the friendly business climate has helped us reinvest and grow. Over the next five years, we are planning for steady growth both through federal contracting and our involvement with other thriving businesses in the state. We look forward to continuing to build DES and expanding our capability to offer engineering, design and prototyping services.” -DES Managing Principals Greg Gordon and Bob Cole

“The fact that DES has chosen to expand in South Carolina and continue to invest in our people is something for our state to be proud of. Their growth in the Palmetto State is a testament to our competitive business environment and our world-class workforce that has made a name for itself as one of the best.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“The expansion of one of South Carolina’s existing businesses is always cause for celebration. Congratulations to DES on this announcement and for creating more job opportunities for the people of Charleston County.” -Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Charleston County is fortunate to have DES as part of our growing innovative ecosystem. Our strong workforce and key connections to the defense industry continue to provide advantages for DES to prosper.” -Charleston County Council Chairman J. Elliott Summey

“There’s nothing we enjoy touting more than the success and growth of our small businesses. Defense Engineering Services is showing its innovation and might in a fierce industry. We look forward to future growth of DES here in the business-friendly city of North Charleston.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“Today’s announcement by Defense Engineering Services demonstrates our investment in supporting and fostering growth within our existing businesses. Our business concierge team was able to expeditiously support DES’s needs, helping to facilitate this exciting expansion for Charleston County.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Defense Engineering Services (DES) is expanding operations in Charleston County.
• The more than $1.1 million investment will create 18 new jobs.
• DES specializes in survivability, vehicle systems and mechanical engineering.
• Located in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the DES team should visit http://www.defengserv.com/contact-us.html.

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Vigilent Labs, an advanced health and medical technology company, today announced plans to establish operations in Charleston County. The company is investing more than $104.6 million and will create over 400 new jobs at its state-of-the-art COVID-19 test manufacturing facility in the Charleston Navy Yard.

Established in 2019, Vigilent Labs provides unique solutions to the detection, identification and assessment of health and bio-threats. The company’s team has substantial experience in the development of medical and bio-surveillance technologies as well as medical devices.

Located at 1105 Truxton Avenue, Building 74 in North Charleston, Vigilent Labs’ new operations will serve as the company’s headquarters, which will include its East Coast production and manufacturing operations. Specifically, the company will work with its partners, SeroClinix and Leinco, to produce rapid COVID-19 antibody and antigen test kits. These FDA-authorized and emergency use authorized test kits are cost effective and will produce fast and accurate results in seven to 10 minutes.

The new facility will begin manufacturing activities in December. Vigilent Labs is working with readySC to assist in recruiting and training prospective employees.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has awarded a $1 million Set-Aside grant to Charleston County to assist with costs related to this project.

“We are so honored by this substantial support from Governor McMaster, Secretary Hitt, the Coordinating Council and Charleston County to center our Vigilant Labs at the historic Charleston Navy Yard in South Carolina. This new facility will specialize in state-of-the-art health and bio-threat testing, screening technologies and products that will help address the expanding need for reliable and accurate COVID-19 testing to confront this pandemic. The Governor, Secretary of Commerce, Charleston County and their teams truly went above and beyond the call of duty to welcome us, attract us and support us, and we are so proud to claim South Carolina as home.” -Vigilent Labs President John Falk

“Companies like Vigilent Labs continue to come to our state and invest in our people because of all that South Carolina has to offer. We are thankful for Vigilent Labs’ decision to invest more than $104.6 million and create over 400 new jobs here in South Carolina, and I look forward to seeing what the future will bring for this fantastic company and its leadership.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“South Carolina’s business-friendly climate continues to attract companies in every industry, and we’re proud to welcome Vigilent Labs to Charleston County. We look forward to working with this great company and watching them thrive in South Carolina.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Vigilent Labs’ announcement shows the community’s commitment and ability to compete in the life sciences sector and tap into this talent pipeline. We proudly welcome Vigilent to Charleston County and appreciate the more than 400 jobs created for our region.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Elliott Summey

“North Charleston is excited to welcome Vigilent Labs and their expanding workforce to our city. North Charleston brings a business-friendly atmosphere, and we keenly understand the positive community impacts when our industries thrive. The city of North Charleston stands alongside Vigilent to ensure future success in its new home.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“Vigilent Labs is committed to providing next-generation solutions to address current and future biological threats, and their announcement to establish operations in North Charleston is a win for our community. This is important work and supports a promising future for Charleston County in the technology and life sciences sectors.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Vigilent Labs is establishing operations in Charleston County.
• The more than $104.6 million investment will create over 400 new jobs.
• Vigilent Labs is an advanced health and medical technology company.
• Located at 1105 Truxton Avenue, Building 74 in North Charleston, S.C.
• Vigilent Labs is working with readySC to assist in recruiting and training prospective employees.

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