New Facility to Create Thousands of Jobs for South Carolinians
Richland County, South Carolina, is poised to see significant economic growth with the establishment of a new facility by Scout Motors. This multibillion-dollar investment, located just north of Columbia, aims to create approximately 4,000 jobs in the electric truck and SUV assembly sector. Production is expected to commence in 2027.
New Facility to Create Thousands of Jobs for South Carolinians
The Scout Motors plant’s construction is ongoing, but pre-hire training is already in progress. This training takes place at the newly opened Cornerstone workforce training facility, situated about ten miles from the plant. Cornerstone is integral to ensuring the local workforce is prepared for upcoming job opportunities.
Investment and Economic Impact
The $5 million training center was funded through a collaboration involving Richland County, the South Carolina Technical College System, and the state. Notably, part of this funding was sourced from a $1.3 billion incentive package approved by the South Carolina General Assembly in 2023, aimed at attracting Scout Motors.
- Facility Cost: $5 million
- Jobs Created: 4,000
- Construction Start: Ongoing
- Production Start: 2027
- State Incentive Package: $1.3 billion
Workforce Development Initiatives
Scout Motors is leveraging the Cornerstone facility to assess and train new maintenance personnel. Clarice Henderson, the Vice President of Human Resources for Production at Scout Motors, emphasized the value of this training approach for preparing local talent.
Officials, including Governor Henry McMaster and local leaders, recently toured the Cornerstone facility. Though Scout Motors is the first tenant, other industries are expected to utilize this center for training in the future.
Commitment to Local Employment
Richland County Council Chair Jesica Mackey commented on the importance of equipping local residents with the necessary skills to fill new jobs. The program, part of readySC, the workforce training division of the Technical College System, focuses on enhancing job readiness among South Carolinians.
Harry Lightsey, the South Carolina Secretary of Commerce, noted that the state’s workforce training model has influenced other states, yet remains unmatched in quality. Tim Hardee, president of the Technical College System, highlighted that 97% of job placements go to South Carolina residents who participate in readySC programs.
State leaders emphasize that this initiative is not just about economic development; it also enhances the quality of life for residents by empowering them with essential skills. Governor McMaster reinforced the idea that South Carolina has the resources and talent necessary to foster growth and innovation within the state.
