Business

Boeing commits $1 billion to expand and upgrade its Charleston facility. What to know

One of South Carolina’s largest employers has committed to pumping $1 billion into its existing operations. The move is expected to bring hundreds of new jobs.

Boeing announced plans Thursday to expand and upgrade facilities in North Charleston that include the Airport and North campuses. The $1 billion investment will bring 500 new jobs over the next five years, a news release said.

Boeing South Carolina was established in the Lowcountry in 2009, and currently employs nearly 8,000 people between its Airport and North campuses, according to a news release. As a whole, the North Charleston facility produces, assembles and delivers globally the 787 Dreamliner, including the 787-8, 787-9 and 787-10.

“I’m thrilled for this next phase of growth, which is made possible by our incredible teammates and the confidence our customers have in our airplanes,” said Scott Stocker, vice president and general manager of the 787 Program and site leader at Boeing South Carolina. ”This decision reflects Boeing’s commitment to the workforce, the 787 program and the community.”

In addition to its North Charleston facility, the company opened operations in Organgeburg on Millennium Drive earlier this year. Those facilities, however, will not benefit from the expansion plan.

By 2026, the 787 Dreamliner program plans to increase production by 10 airplanes per month, the release said. Operations are expected to be online in early 2027.

People interested in working for the company are encouraged to visit Boeing’s careers page.

“Boeing’s decision to expand in Charleston County further solidifies South Carolina’s position as a leader in the aerospace industry,” South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster said in a news release. “This significant investment and the 500 new jobs it will bring to the Lowcountry reflect Boeing’s confidence in our workforce and highlights the strength of our pro-business environment.”

Javon L. Harris
The State
Javon L. Harris is a crime and courts reporter for The State. He is a graduate of the University of Florida and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University. Before coming to South Carolina, Javon covered breaking news, local government and social justice for The Gainesville Sun in Florida. Support my work with a digital subscription
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