North Raleigh 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, with an investment of $11 million. This expansion is expected to create 45 new jobs.

Governor Stein remarked on 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."

CPI has been providing infrastructure hardware and equipment solutions for over three decades. The company focuses on engineering thermal, power, and cable management solutions for data centers and other industries. With this expansion, CPI aims to increase production capacity and introduce new product lines.

Ted Behrens, CEO of Chatsworth Products, emphasized the company's commitment to meeting customer needs through employee ownership. He said, "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 North Carolina's skilled workforce as a key factor in CPI's decision: "Chatsworth’s decision to expand is the result of what works well in North Carolina."

The new positions at CPI include machine operators, packers, and warehouse staff. The average annual wage for these roles is projected at $50,224—above Craven County's average wage of $48,770—potentially adding more than $2.2 million annually to the regional payroll.

A performance-based grant of $100,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will assist with CPI's expansion efforts. This fund aids local governments in attracting economic investments by providing financial assistance contingent upon job creation and capital investment targets being met.

Senator Bob Brinson expressed optimism about the new opportunities: "These new jobs are a welcome addition to our region." Representative Steve Tyson also expressed gratitude towards those who facilitated 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."

Several partners have collaborated on this project alongside CPI and government bodies including Duke Energy and various educational institutions like Craven Community College.