Johnston County Economic Development

08/17/2026

For the Johnston County Economic Development office (EDC), events like JOCO WORKS WOW are foundational investments. EDC offices thrive when local employers stay and expand; to keep companies in Johnston County, the county must supply a skilled, steady talent pipeline. Early exposure during eighth grade anchors career awareness before high school registration, aligning local student paths with regional industries like biomanufacturing, advanced manufacturing, and trades.

A World of Workforce Opportunity

08/09/2026

2026 - Little League Softball World Series Champions!

08/09/2026

Economic development is often talked about in terms of industry, infrastructure, and investment, but anyone who has spent time in Johnston County knows it also lives in our parks, our recreation programs, and the communities that grow up around them. Today, that truth will be on full display as the girls from the Archer Lodge community take the field in the Little League Softball World Series championship game. Their journey, supported by the Archer Lodge Parks and Recreation, shows exactly how strong communities create strong futures.

We couldn’t be more proud of these young athletes and what they represent for JoCo. Their hard work, teamwork, and heart have carried them all the way to the national stage, and they’ve inspired an entire county along the way. Economic development is about building places where people want to live, work, and raise their families, and moments like this remind us why that mission matters.

Although their jerseys may say North Carolina, we're cheering loud for Archer Lodge today. They’ve already made history, and they’ve made Johnston County proud.

via WRAL TV

The Johnston County Little League 12U Softball team from Clayton defeated Lake Mary, Florida, 4-0 on Saturday. With the win, North Carolina has now sent three teams to the championship game in the last four years.

07/21/2026

About 75 business and civic leaders joined OPW Retail Fueling executives and representatives of ARCO Design/Build on Friday (7/17/26) to break ground on a major expansion to OPW’s operations near Johnston Regional Airport on US Highway 70 Business. The company, part of Illinois-based Dover Corporation [NYSE: DOV], is a leading global provider of fluid transfer solutions, including retail fueling systems.

“This is a big deal,” said Michael McCann, Vice President and General Manager at OPW, citing Johnston County’s business environment and excellent workforce. OPW maintains plants in China, Malaysia, Sweden and the United Kingdom. “But this is the headquarters,” McCann said, “and that’s not random.” Since acquiring the Smithfield facility in 2006, OPW has grown its local workforce from 50 to about 500. “It’s a great North Carolina story, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of the community, government officials and our employees,” said McCann, who has been involved in the facility’s management for the last two decades.

Greg Kennedy, Vice President of Operations at OPW, spoke of the support his company gets from local government in Johnston County, the Economic Development Office, the Clayton Chamber of Commerce, and OPW employees. “Johnston County is very important to OPW,” Kennedy said. “The people in this area make things so easy.” Turnover at the company’s Smithfield facility, for example, is a scant five percent, he added. “ Community College has done tremendous things for us,” Kennedy added. “We have great training programs we’ve developed in partnership with JCC that help educate kids in this area.”

OPW’s expansion comes just nine days after officials from AdvanceTEC, LLC and its new French sister corporation, Pierre Guérin SAS, broke ground on a $7.5 million expansion that adds 32,000 – square-foot to its Clayton manufacturing footprint.

OPW’s global footprint includes sales offices on six continents. Its Retail Fueling business is a leading producer of innovative fuel dispensing, transfer and secondary containment solutions. The company is ISO-9000 certified and utilizes Lean Manufacturing and rigid Six Sigma Quality Systems to maximize quality throughout the entire product life cycle.

Founded in 1955 and headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, Dover Corp. is a diversified global manufacturer and solutions provider with annual revenues topping $8 billion. With a global workforce of 24,000, the company delivers innovative components and aftermarket parts, digital solutions, supplies, and support services through five operating segments: Engineered Products, Clean Energy & Fueling, Imaging & Identification, Pumps & Process Solutions and Climate & Sustainability Technologies. Dover Corp. sits in the elite ranks of “Dividend Kings,” a Wall Street distinction that acknowledges more than 50 years of continuous dividend increases. Dover, in fact, has grown its dividend for the past 71 consecutive years.

07/20/2026

Grateful for the strong partnerships we continue to build through the I-95/ I-40 Crossroads of America Economic Development Alliance, Inc. and Johnston Community College. Today we had the privilege of hosting Carrie Hasbrouck, CAPT, USN (Ret.) for a tour and a thoughtful discussion on workforce needs tied to defense critical supply chains and the Submarine Industrial Base Program Office (SIB) Program.

The SIB Program is a national effort to strengthen and expand the workforce and supplier network that supports the construction and sustainment of the US Navy’s submarine fleet. It focuses on growing a skilled talent pipeline, supporting small and mid‑sized manufacturers, aligning regional Brian Worley with defense supply‑chain needs, and ensuring long‑term readiness through a resilient industrial base.

It’s exciting to see how our region’s strengths, JCC’s training capacity, the Alliance’s collaboration, and the commitment of our industry partners — align directly with these national priorities. Proud of the work happening here in Johnston County and the role we play in supporting the defense sector and the communities behind it.

07/17/2026

What incredible energy in the office Thursday evening! The Johnston County NC - Economic Development office was thrilled to host a summer intern social, bringing together brilliant students who are spending their summers working with various industries right here across Johnston County.

Events like this are about more than just networking, they are a vital piece of developing our regional talent pipeline. By connecting these future leaders with local industries and each other, we aren't just supporting their summer journey. We are showing them that Johnston County is a thriving place to build a meaningful career after graduation.

We had an amazing turnout, with students representing a fantastic mix of our regional colleges and universities. The room was filled with over 30 bright minds from Johnston Community College, NC State, ECU, UNC Wilmington, UNC Charlotte, Appalachian State, High Point, William Peace, and Liberty University, just to name a few.

Investing in the next generation of workforce talent is a team sport. A huge thank you to all the area industries who are hosting these interns, and to the students themselves for bringing their passion, curiosity, and drive to our community this summer. The future of Johnston County industry is in very capable hands!

Johnston County Government, Johnston Regional Airport, Novo Nordisk, Vulcan Elements, KS Bank, Inc. just to name a few of the companies represented! If your company would like to be a part of future intern events, please contact the office.

07/14/2026

For 51 years, Johnston County Industries or JCI has remained fiercely committed to a vital mission: empowering individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment to build stronger futures through work.

True inclusion means ensuring everyone has a seat at the table and an opportunity to contribute. The impact of JCI's work goes far beyond job placement. By evaluating, training, and transitioning individuals into the active workforce, they help reduce the community's reliance on public assistance. This creates an incredibly valuable cycle for our taxpaying citizens, as independent, skilled workers become active contributors to the local tax base, maximizing community resources.

This workforce development is exactly why JCI is such a crucial partner for the Johnston County Economic Development Office. As our local leaders work to attract new businesses and expand existing industries, a reliable, trained, and diverse talent pool is our greatest asset. JCI helps bridge that gap, ensuring that as Johnston County grows, our economic expansion includes everyone.

JCI’s 51-year legacy is a testament to what happens when compassion meets economic strategy. When we break down barriers to employment, our workforce grows stronger, our businesses thrive, and our entire community wins.

Thank you to the dedicated team at JCI and the local business community for continuing to champion the life-changing power of meaningful work.

🎉Happy Founding Day, JCI!🎉

On July 14, 1975, JCI opened its doors with a mission to support people with disabilities in finding meaningful employment. What began with just three employees has grown into a well-recognized pillar of our community.

For 51 years, JCI has remained committed to empowering people to build stronger futures through work, support, and community connection. Every day, we strive to exceed the expectations of the people we serve, our partners, and our team while continuing to make a meaningful impact.

We're proud of how far we've come, but even more excited about what's ahead.

Happy 51st Founding Day, JCI! ❤️

07/09/2026

Investing the the future....

05/27/2026

Appreciated the opportunity to host and join the Johnston County Human Resources Professionals Network this morning for another meaningful conversation around workforce readiness and employer best practices. We heard from Jim Lee with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), who brought clarity and insight into the tremendous value that Reserve and National Guard members bring to our business and industries.

Jim walked us through the responsibilities employers have under federal law, but just as importantly, he highlighted the strengths these service members carry into the workplace .... discipline, leadership, adaptability, and a commitment to mission that elevates any team. Supporting our Guard and Reserve personnel isn’t just the right thing to do; it’s a strategic advantage for companies across Johnston County and beyond.

Grateful for the continued collaboration within our HR network as we work to strengthen our talent pipeline and create workplaces where those who serve can thrive.

North Carolina National Guard

03/24/2026

National Ag Day — March 24, 2026
National Ag Day celebrates the enormous role agriculture plays in our daily lives, from the safe, affordable food on our tables to the fiber and materials that support modern living. Hosted by the Agriculture Council of America, this annual observance shines a spotlight on the farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers whose dedication fuels our economy and strengthens our nation’s food security.

Here in Johnston County, agriculture isn’t just part of our heritage — it remains the number one industry, driving local jobs, supporting families, and shaping the landscape of our community. From row crops and livestock to agribusiness and innovation, Johnston County’s agricultural sector continues to anchor the local economy and contribute to North Carolina’s broader agricultural success.

This year’s theme, “Together We Grow,” marks 250 years of American agricultural progress. It’s a reminder that innovation, stewardship, and community have always been at the heart of our agricultural story — nationally and right here at home. Johnston County’s farmers and producers embody that spirit every day, proving that when agriculture thrives, our entire community grows stronger.