North Raleigh Today

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

Governor Stein emphasized the state's support for manufacturing operations, stating, "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 added that CPI's reinvestment is a testament to North Carolina being a favorable business environment with a skilled workforce.

Chatsworth Products has been providing infrastructure hardware and equipment solutions for over three decades. The company specializes in engineering thermal, power, and cable management solutions for data centers. CEO Ted Behrens remarked on the expansion: “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."

N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley highlighted the factors contributing to CPI's decision: “Chatsworth’s decision to expand is the result of what works well in North Carolina.” He noted the state's skilled workforce and innovative leadership as key elements.

The new positions at CPI include machine operators, packers, and warehouse staff. These roles offer an average annual wage of $50,224, exceeding Craven County's average wage. This could lead to an annual payroll impact exceeding $2.2 million for the region.

To aid this expansion, Chatsworth Products will receive a performance-based grant of $100,000 from the One North Carolina Fund. This fund supports local governments in attracting economic investments and creating jobs by providing financial assistance contingent upon job creation and capital investment targets being met.

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

The project received support from various partners including the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Craven Community College, NC East Alliance, North Carolina’s Southeast, Craven County, Craven 100 Alliance, and Duke Energy.