Corning Optical, a leading innovator in fiber optics and high-performance materials, is making another big investment in Catawba County, North Carolina. The company plans to expand by opening a new facility in Hickory’s Trivium Corporate Center.
This move will create 132 high-paying jobs and bring in an investment between $170 million and $267.9 million. It’s a pretty strong sign that Corning Optical sees real potential in the region and wants to stick around for the long haul.
Major Investment Driving Job Creation
The headline here? About 132 new positions, each with an average annual salary over $65,000. That’s well above the county’s median income—so, yeah, these are solid jobs.
The new facility will sit on a nearly 33-acre lot valued at over $3.1 million. The city of Hickory and Catawba County are handing over this land to Corning Optical at no cost.
Economic Incentives Bolstering Growth
Local leaders have stepped up with almost $6 million in combined financial incentives. Here’s the breakdown:
- $2.7 million in potential grants from Catawba County.
- $3.1 million in potential grants from the city of Hickory.
- Transfer of Lot 11 in the Trivium Corporate Center directly to Corning Optical.
Scott Millar, president of the Catawba County Economic Development Corporation, said the county is really pushing for the higher-end investment target—almost $268 million. That number shows just how much weight this project carries.
Reinforcing Hickory’s Advanced Manufacturing Reputation
Hickory Mayor Hank Guess sees this expansion as a big deal. He believes it cements Hickory’s reputation as a center for manufacturing innovation.
With more and more cutting-edge industries moving in, Hickory keeps showing up on the map as a top spot for advanced manufacturing and tech-driven growth. That’s not something every city can claim.
A Strategic Location for Long-Term Success
The Trivium Corporate Center in Catawba County sits close to major transportation routes and taps into a skilled workforce. This area’s infrastructure and business-friendly vibe help companies like Corning Optical invest in state-of-the-art facilities.
Corning Optical’s Deep Roots in North Carolina
Corning Optical, a division of New York-based Corning Inc., already runs several facilities in North Carolina. You’ll find them in Newton, Winston-Salem, and Concord.
The company’s relationship with Catawba County stands out. Back in 2021, Corning Optical expanded its operations in the county with a $150 million investment that created 200 new jobs.
Building on Past Partnerships
That earlier expansion showed how teamwork between industry leaders and local government can pay off. By sticking with this partnership, Corning Optical is helping build a high-wage manufacturing sector that boosts the local economy and North Carolina’s role in global tech supply chains.
Potential State-Level Support
Local incentives are already set, but state-level help could come into play down the road. That extra support might give the project even more momentum and help keep Catawba County competitive.
What This Means for the Community
For folks in Catawba County, this expansion isn’t just about jobs—it’s proof the region can attract world-class companies. Adding highly skilled, well-paid positions could mean stronger consumer spending, a livelier housing market, and growth in supporting businesses.
Corning Optical’s Expansion: Jobs, Innovation, and Local Growth
Corning Optical’s expansion shows how smart investments and teamwork between public and private groups can really shake up local economies.
Now that construction is starting on the new facility, folks in Hickory and the rest of Catawba County might see more opportunities, fresh ideas, and some real long-term growth coming their way.
This project isn’t just about putting up a new plant—it’s about giving North Carolina’s manufacturing sector a brighter shot at the future.
Here is the source article for this story: Corning Optical plans up to $268M expansion outside Charlotte, with over 130 jobs