News Summary
Keel, a national defense manufacturer, is expanding its operations in Charleston County with a $67 million investment that will create 170 new jobs. This expansion includes a new prep and paint facility essential for producing components for the U.S. Navy. The company aims to meet increasing Navy shipbuilding requirements, highlighting the strategic importance of Charleston County in the defense manufacturing sector. This development supports local economic growth and reinforces the need for a skilled workforce in defense-related manufacturing.
South Carolina is set to experience a significant boost in its manufacturing and defense sectors, as Keel, a national defense manufacturer, announces a major expansion of its operations in Charleston County. The investment amounts to $67 million and will generate 170 new jobs at the company’s shipyard located on Yonges Island in Meggett.
The expansion project will involve the construction of a new state-of-the-art prep and paint facility, which is crucial for the manufacturing of submarine and aircraft carrier components intended for the U.S. Navy. This expansion is already underway, with preliminary work having begun on the prep and paint facility, which is a significant first phase of this larger project.
Keel’s investment signifies the company’s commitment to supporting the U.S. Navy and enhancing national defense capabilities. With this expansion, Keel aims to add essential capacity to meet the increasing and stringent shipbuilding requirements of the Navy, reinforcing the strategic importance of the location in Charleston County.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits to facilitate this expansion project, reflecting both government support and a broader trend of investment in local defense manufacturing capabilities. Charleston County Council Chairman has noted that this expansion is indicative of the confidence placed in the local workforce and the conducive business environment established within the region.
Keel, which is headquartered in Ladson, South Carolina, specializes in the advanced manufacturing of submarine modules, aircraft carrier components, and other complex structures tailored for the U.S. Navy and the wider defense industry. The company is recognized for its pivotal role in enhancing the defense manufacturing landscape in the Southeast United States.
South Carolina Governor has described this investment by Keel as a notable win for the state’s manufacturing and defense sectors, highlighting the significance of this development not only for the local economy but also for the broader national defense efforts.
This expansion not only generates new job opportunities and bolsters local economic growth but also enhances the strategic capabilities of the U.S. Navy as it fulfills its mission requirements. The prospect of 170 new jobs showcases the ongoing demand for skilled labor in the defense sector, reinforcing the importance of training and workforce development in meeting future challenges.
The new facility is expected to streamline operations and bolster production efficiency, addressing the increasing demands from the Navy. With a focus on high-quality manufacturing standards, the new structure will contribute to meeting rigorous defense specifications while supporting national security initiatives.
In summary, Keel’s investment in a $67 million expansion in Charleston County is a significant development that highlights the ongoing commitment to national defense through enhanced manufacturing capabilities. As construction of the prep and paint facility commences, the positive economic impact on the community and the state is anticipated to be substantial, further solidifying South Carolina’s position as a key player in the defense manufacturing sector.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Charleston Business: Keel Expands Charleston Shipyard with $67M Investment
- Post and Courier: Keel Expands Operations in Charleston
- ABC News 4: Keel to Create 170 Jobs in Charleston County
- The Fabricator: Keel to Invest $70 Million in Facilities
- Google Search: Defense Manufacturing Charleston
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
