Workforce Data

Workforce Data

Workforce Data – Key Factor Summary

For decades North Carolina has been a leader in the establishment of new manufacturing facilities, with investments exceeding a billion dollars annually over the past decade. Companies have selected the state, not on the basis of tax moratoriums or special incentives, but because of:

• a proven pro-business philosophy
• fair tax policies and fiscal responsibility
• existence of a right-to-work law
• the lowest rate of unionization in the US (3.1% for 2009)
• a productive, trainable labor force
• a highly effective labor training program
• workers compensation insurance rates which consistently rank among the lowest in the Nation
• low unemployment insurance rates
• a state administered OOTA program
• private industry associations ranked among the most effective in the nation

---

Pitt County Workforce

The diversity, quality, and availability of human resources in Pitt County are primary reasons why such notable and diverse companies as DSM, NACCO Materials Handling Group, ASMO, Karastan, and Weyerhaeuser have established major manufacturing facilities in our communities. Our people have also provided the basis for the continued expansion of these industries. In fact, every major manufacturer has expanded their operations in Pitt County since their initial location, regardless of whether they produce pharmaceuticals or textiles.

Business and industry in Pitt County have found the people of Pitt County and North Carolina definitely have a pro-business attitude:

• Several local plants hold productivity, attendance, and safety records within their companies and their industries
• People are characteristically loyal, desiring direct personal contact with fellow workers and with management, exhibit pride in their workmanship, and are interested in self-development and the acquisition of new skills
• Essentially all manufacturing facilities in the county operate free from unions with employees eager to take on multiple job functions and skills
• Local leadership is responsive to the needs of the business community
• Work stoppages are nonexistent

The people of Pitt County are proud of the business climate. They work diligently to enhance an environment in which business feels welcome, prospers, and expands with the knowledge their investments are sound ones. All of the manufacturers that have located facilities in Pitt County since 1965 operate union-free plants. In fact, all manufacturing, distribution and administrative office employees in Pitt County, with the exception of workers at one tobacco processing facility, are not affiliated with any union. During the past 30 (thirty) years there have been a total of five organizational attempts in the county, and all but one have been won by management with healthy margins.

---