New Pharmaceutical Plant in Wilson to Create 500 Jobs, Announces Stein
Governor John Stein has announced the establishment of a new pharmaceutical plant in Wilson, which is expected to create 500 jobs. This development comes as Johnson & Johnson plans a multibillion-dollar expansion of its existing operations in the area.
Significant Investment in North Carolina
Johnson & Johnson has significantly invested in North Carolina’s biopharmaceutical sector, focusing on its facilities in Wilson and Holly Springs. The company first unveiled plans for its Holly Springs plant in 2023 and expanded those plans in August.
New Manufacturing Capabilities
The upcoming plant in Wilson will focus on producing cancer drugs, among other pharmaceutical products. However, officials did not provide a timeline for when construction will be completed or when the plant will become operational.
Supportive Economic Environment
Stein highlighted that this expansion is part of numerous economic advancements in North Carolina’s life sciences sector. He remarked, “I appreciate Johnson & Johnson’s confidence that North Carolina is an ideal place to expand their business and create more good-paying jobs.”
Workforce Development Initiatives
The state will invest $12 million in a training program at Wilson Community College. This program aims to ready local workers for the job opportunities generated by the new plant.
- Bipartisan Support: The initiative has received backing from both Republicans and Democrats in the state legislature.
- Comments from Local Leaders: State Senator Buck Newton and Representative Dante Pittman praised the investment, noting its potential to provide high-value careers.
Current Employment Landscape in Wilson
The unemployment rate in Wilson County stands at 4.9% as of September, surpassing the state average of 3.8%. Local leaders believe that the new pharmaceutical plant will provide much-needed job opportunities and contribute to economic growth.
