Enforge, a manufacturer of steel-formed suspension and steering assemblies for automotive companies, is adding 44 new jobs at its Albemarle plant, adding hot forging capabilities in a $4 million expansion that will more than double its workforce in Stanly County.
Enforge, a subsidiary of Angstrom Automotive Group located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, produces control arms, suspension links, track bars, steering links, tow hooks, brace rods and other structural components and assemblies for automotive original equipment manufacturers. Angstrom customers include FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles), GM, Ford, Honda, GE, Bosch and more.
“As Angstrom is experiencing significant growth, we selected Albemarle as our first preference to launch this business due to availability of stable skilled workforce and pro-business environment which North Carolina offers, ” said Rajneesh Banga, Angstrom vice president of finance.
North Carolina Secretary of Commerce said Enforge’s choice “reinforces North Carolina as a smart location for manufacturers in the automotive industry.”
“North Carolinians have experienced automotive manufacturing professionals with advanced training programs available to expand skills, and they are ready to get to work,” he added.
The state Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) were instrumental in supporting the company’s expansion decision. Salaries for the new jobs will vary by position but will average $32,812, which is above the average wage of $32,604 in Stanly County.
A performance-based grant of $90,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help support Enforge’s expansion in North Carolina. The fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and to create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All One NC grants require a matching grant from local governments.
In addition to state Commerce and the EDPNC, other key partners in the project include the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Stanly County and the city of Albemarle.