Josh Stein — public schedule

Boat Manufacturer to Create 179 Jobs for a $6 Million Production Campus in Beaufort County

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Boat Manufacturer to Create 179 Jobs for a $6 Million Production Campus in Beaufort County

Release Date

Wed, 08/26/2026 - 12:00

sengel Wed, 08/26/2026 - 12:22

Today Governor Josh Stein announced that Boater’s World Manufacturing Group, LLC will create 179 new jobs in Beaufort County. The company says it will invest more than $6 million to establish a boat manufacturing campus in Chocowinity.

“From building materials to building boats, North Carolina’s manufacturing expertise is second to none,” said Governor Josh Stein. “When companies choose rural North Carolina, it reminds the world that North Carolina is a top-tier state for business. Thanks to our workforce, our infrastructure, and our commitment to supporting long-term economic opportunity from the mountains to the coast, we have what companies need to thrive.”

Boater’s World Manufacturing Group marks Outdoor Network’s entry into boat manufacturing with the acquisition of NauticStar Boats. Since 1999, Outdoor Network has been a leading force in the recreational marine and powersports industry. This new venture represents a natural extension of Outdoor Network’s growth by reinforcing its long-standing commitment to serving customers and partners throughout the marine community. The new facility, spanning 212,000 square feet on the waterfront of the Pamlico River, will serve as the company’s flagship manufacturing operation.

“Our growth over the last 27 years has always been driven by a simple focus on doing right by our customers, and building boats of our own has always been one of our goals to better serve the marine community,” said Martin Polo, CEO of Outdoor Network. “Taking the helm as a manufacturer of the NauticStar marine line allows us to combine decades of marine retail experience with genuine craft building. We are grateful for North Carolina’s partnership and excited to make Beaufort County our manufacturing home.”

“This announcement reflects the confidence employers have in our state’s strong business climate,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “With a skilled and talented boatbuilding workforce, efficient waterfront access, and robust regional marine supply chain, the Town of Chocowinity has the right components to support and grow our $17 billion outdoor recreation economy.

Although the wages will vary by position, the annual average salary for the assembly, engineering, and operations roles will be $54,916, which exceeds the Beaufort County average of $50,175. These new jobs could potentially create an annual payroll impact of more than $1.2 million for the region.

A performance-based grant of $375,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help the company locate to North Carolina. The OneNC 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. Boater’s World Manufacturing Group must invest $1.3 million to receive One NC grant payments. All OneNC grants require matching participation from local governments, and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

“This is a tremendous win for Beaufort County and for rural eastern North Carolina,” said Senator Bob Brinson. “This project demonstrates what can be accomplished when the General Assembly, the Governor’s Office, the Department of Commerce, and local leaders work together to support existing industries, encourage private investment, and strengthen our rural communities, and I look forward to seeing the lasting economic impact Boater’s World Manufacturing Group will have on the region.”

“We welcome Boater’s World Manufacturing Group and all they will build in Chocowinity,” said Representative Keith Kidwell. “Supporting business growth and creating meaningful opportunities are important to the people of Beaufort County, and we’re grateful that this company sees the value of our community’s resources and readiness.”

Governor Stein Announces $120 Million Southeast Manufacturing Hub for Building Products Company

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Governor Stein Announces $120 Million Southeast Manufacturing Hub for Building Products Company

Release Date

Tue, 08/25/2026 - 12:00

sengel Tue, 08/25/2026 - 12:36

Today Governor Josh Stein announced ProVia LLC, a manufacturer of exterior building products, will create 400 jobs in Davie County. The company will invest $120 million to build a window manufacturing facility in Mocksville to serve the southeastern United States.

“ProVia’s decision to establish a new manufacturing hub in Davie County is a win for our state,” said Governor Josh Stein. “With the largest manufacturing workforce in the Southeast, robust infrastructure, and a strong economy, our state is well positioned to continue attracting growing companies across a wide range of industries.”

ProVia is an Ohio-based producer of doors, windows, siding, stone, and roofing products for dealers and distributors in the residential construction industry. Founded in 1977, the family-owned company has grown to nine locations and more than 3,000 employees. This new site will be ProVia’s 10th location and a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that will add 580,000 square feet of space for a new window production line.

“This expansion will enable us to continue delivering quality products to our growing marketplace with a high level of service and excellent lead times,” said Brian Miller, President and CEO, ProVia. “We are humbled to grow at this scale and grateful for the trust our customers place in us. This investment reflects our commitment to continuing to earn that trust by providing exceptional quality and service. It also reflects the tireless efforts of the communities behind these projects, and we are grateful for their partnership.”

“The depth of our manufacturing prowess continues to create positive economic activity across the state,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Our First in Opportunity plan will guide the work to strengthen our site readiness and infrastructure, ensuring North Carolina remains prepared to compete for the next generation of investment.”

Although salaries for the positions will vary, the average annual salary will be $66,326, which exceeds the Davie County average of $52,772. These new jobs could create a potential annual payroll impact of more than $26.5 million for the region.

ProVia’s operation in North Carolina will be facilitated, in part, by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG), which was approved by the state’s Economic Investment Committee earlier today. Over the course of the 12-year term of this grant, the project is estimated to grow the state’s economy by $1 billion. Using a formula that takes into account the new tax revenues generated by the new jobs and capital investment, the JDIG agreement authorizes the potential reimbursement to the company of up to $3,280,500, spread over 12 years. State payments occur only following performance verification each year by the departments of Commerce and Revenue that the company has met its incremental job creation and investment targets.

The project’s projected return on investment of public dollars is 73 percent, meaning for every dollar of potential cost to the state, the state receives $1.73 in state revenue. JDIG projects result in positive net tax revenue to the state treasury, even after taking into consideration the grant’s reimbursement payments to a given company.

Because ProVia chose a site in Davie County, classified by the state’s economic tier system as Tier 3, the company’s JDIG agreement also calls for moving as much as $1,093,500 into the state’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account. The Utility Account helps rural communities anywhere in the state finance necessary infrastructure upgrades to attract future business.

“We are delighted to welcome ProVia and these good-paying jobs to Davie County,” said Senator Steve Jarvis. “Joining our community is a vote of confidence in our ability to create the business environment with a world-class workforce to support its next phase of growth.”

“ProVia could have made this investment anywhere, but they chose Davie County,” said Representative Julia C. Howard. “We appreciate the diligent work of the state and local leaders and economic development professionals that helped the company decide to build in our community.

In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions, the North Carolina Community College System, Davidson-Davie Community College, Davie County, Davie County Schools, Davie County Economic Development, the Town of Mocksville, and Duke Energy.

Governor Stein Announces $69 Million to Support Affordable Rental Housing in Western North Carolina

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Governor Stein Announces $69 Million to Support Affordable Rental Housing in Western North Carolina

Release Date

Tue, 08/25/2026 - 12:00

sengel Tue, 08/25/2026 - 16:14

Today Governor Stein, the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s (NCDOC) Division of Community Revitalization (DCR), and the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) announced 10 projects to develop 828 new rental units will receive awards totaling more than $69 million in Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds. This federal funding will expand the supply of affordable, resilient rental housing in western North Carolina.

“Getting families back into safe housing that they can afford is critical to the recovery from Hurricane Helene,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This program will ensure these 828 apartments remain financially accessible to people living in the 828 area code for the next 30 years.”

Governor Stein is laser-focused on creating safe, stable, and affordable housing of all types. State-funded nonprofit partnerships and Renew NC have completed more than 1,000 homes. Renters in WNC face some of the highest housing cost burdens in the state, and affordable rental housing is important component of a full recovery.

Last month, Governor Stein signed into law North Carolina’s first full state budget in more than two years that appropriates more than $700 million to support Hurricane Helene recovery – the third Hurricane Helene Recovery package since Governor Stein took office in January 2025. That includes $40 million to support Renew NC’s Temporary Relocation Assistance (TRA) program so each family has a place to live while their home is under construction and $35 million for additional grants to volunteer organizations that help repair and rebuild housing.

Earlier this year, Governor Stein signed an executive order to increase housing opportunities and affordability for all North Carolinians. Executive Order No. 36 directs cabinet agencies to work together to increase housing supply, affordability, and access and to use technology to deliver data-driven solutions.

Awards are provided through the Rental Production Program for Disaster Recovery (RPP), which combines CDBG-DR funds administered by DCR with NCHFA’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program to support financially feasible and resilient housing with long-term affordability in disaster-impacted communities.

The RPP is a competitive program offering low-cost gap-financing loans for the development of multi-family affordable housing. These funds complement other financing sources, including LIHTC, when applicable.

Eligible projects include new construction, acquisition, and rehabilitation of multi-family rental housing located in HUD-designated Most Impacted and Distressed (MID) counties, including Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Cleveland, Haywood, Henderson, Madison, McDowell, Mecklenburg (ZIP code 28214 only), Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, and Yancey.

Developers of affordable rental housing, such as nonprofit developers and public housing programs, were eligible to apply to the Rental Production Program for Disaster Recovery. Their projects were required to demonstrate a tie back to Hurricane Helene impacts, meet a CDBG-DR national objective, and comply with all federal, state, and local requirements, as well.

The 10 award recipients will provide 828 affordable multi-family rental units in Ashe, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Cleveland, Haywood, Henderson, Rutherford, Transylvania, and Watauga counties. They are as follows:

Recipient	City	Units	County	Award
Crescent Place Apartments	Arden	60	Buncombe	$1,727,500
The Lofts at Shelby	Shelby	84	Cleveland	$3,000,000
Abbington Overlook	Lenoir	60	Caldwell	$3,000,000
Sweetwater Place Apartments	Forest City	56	Rutherford	$2,050,000
Saxony Hall Manor	Waynesville	60	Haywood	$10,554,400
Hemlock Ridge Trace	Boone	93	Watauga	$11,406,600
Meadowcrest	Hendersonville	132	Henderson	$2,900,000
Leonhardt Landing	Morganton	144	Burke	$13,347,500
Cascade Ridge	Brevard	84	Transylvania	$12,671,900
Arendell Trace	West Jefferson	55	Ashe	$8,481,900

“Housing is a critical building block for western North Carolina economic recovery,” said NC Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Our partnership with the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency will help meet the growing need for housing for working families in the west.”

Recipients receiving low-cost CDBG-DR financing must comply with income limits, rent restrictions, and other program requirements for a minimum 30-year affordability period. NCDOC will monitor these projects throughout the affordability period to ensure continued compliance with federal requirements and confirm that units serve eligible low- and moderate-income households.

The Rental Production Program for Disaster Recovery requires all non-administrative funds to be fully committed, and all required documentation submitted to NCDOC by October 30, 2030. All program activities must be completed and all funds expended by January 28, 2031.

Earlier today, the state’s commitment to expand affordable housing in western North Carolina strengthened with the launch of the Renew NC Workforce Housing for Ownership Program. This final Renew NC program will fund the development of homes for purchase by households earning up to 80% of area median income in 16 HUD-Identified Most Impacted and Distressed (MID) counties.

Renew NC is North Carolina’s long-term disaster recovery effort, committed to rebuilding impacted communities stronger so they are more resilient to future storms. Renew NC is administered through the North Carolina Department of Commerce Division of Community Revitalization and funded by a $1.4 billion CDBG-DR grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency is a self-supporting public agency created by the North Carolina General Assembly that provides safe, affordable housing opportunities to enhance the quality of life of North Carolinians.

Governor Stein Celebrates North Carolina’s State Employees at Richard Caswell Service Award Ceremony

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Governor Stein Celebrates North Carolina’s State Employees at Richard Caswell Service Award Ceremony

Release Date

Tue, 08/25/2026 - 12:00

sengel Tue, 08/25/2026 - 14:27

Today Governor Josh Stein joined the Office of State Human Resources’ Richard Caswell Service Award Ceremony to honor employees who have achieved 45 years of public service with the state of North Carolina.

“Although today’s honorees excelled in different fields, this year’s Richard Caswell Service Award recipients are united by their immeasurable public impact,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Whether keeping our communities safe, ensuring every North Carolinian has a chance at success, or delivering quality services across the state, these incredible state employees have made North Carolina safer and stronger.”

At the ceremony, nine employees were honored for their collective service of more –than 400 years with the State of North Carolina:

Jane Allen Beaman, Harnett County District Attorney’s Office – 49 years
Glendora Hagins, Department of Public Instruction – 45 years
Janice Johnson, Department of Justice – 45 years
Gail Newman, Department of Adult Correction – 45 years
Mae Rogers, Department of Transportation – 45 years
Morris Reid, Department of Adult Correction – 45 years
Judy Stem, Department of Health and Human Services – 45 years
Rebecca Smith, Department of Justice – 45 years
Donna Wilson, Department of Information Technology – 45 years

The Richard Caswell Award Program was established in January 1998 for state employees with 45 or more years of service. The award acknowledges and expresses appreciation for noteworthy extended dedicated service. An appropriate statewide or agency-level ceremony is conducted annually for eligible employees.

Last month, Governor Stein signed House Bill 1041: Public Workforce Modernization Act into law. This historic advancement represents North Carolina’s most comprehensive human resources modernization in 50 years. The bill makes it easier to apply for state jobs, creates work-based learning opportunities for state employees, and helps spouses of servicemembers find jobs in state government. It also puts families first by expanding paid parental leave for state employees to 12 weeks. Earlier this month, Governor Stein signed into law North Carolina’s first full state budget in more than two years that gives most state employees a 3% across-the-board raise and a bonus of at least $1,000. The Governor’s proposed budget called for larger raises for state employees, and he will continue advocating for the necessary investments to recruit and retain the best state employees.

Wood Preserving Company Selects Scotland County for $40 Million Lumber Treatment Facility

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Wood Preserving Company Selects Scotland County for $40 Million Lumber Treatment Facility

Release Date

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:00

sengel Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:53

Today Governor Josh Stein announced Great Southern Wood-NC, Inc. (GSWNC), a manufacturer of pressure-treated lumber, will create 43 jobs in Scotland County. The company will invest $40 million to construct a lumber treatment manufacturing facility at Laurinburg-Maxton Airport.

“We are excited that Great Southern Wood has decided to plant roots in North Carolina,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This new facility will strengthen our $41 billion forestry industry and offer more opportunities in Scotland County and beyond.”

Founded in Alabama in 1970, GSWNC’s Laurinburg facility will be the company’s 17th treating plant. The company produces pressure-treated pine and distributes a variety of other building materials to dealers in the residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural sectors across 28 states and the District of Columbia.

“The forest sector serves as a critical foundation for economic success in all 100 counties,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Great Southern Wood will benefit from our manufacturing economy, our skilled workforce, and our unwavering commitment to driving economic growth in each corner of the state.”

While wages vary by position, the average annual salary for the new positions will be $60,827, which exceeds Scotland County’s average of $49,091.

A performance-based grant of $200,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help the company establish operations in North Carolina. The OneNC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment and create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All OneNC grants require matching participation from local governments, and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.

“This win illustrates the power of collaboration,” said N.C. Senator Danny Earl Britt, Jr. “The company’s decision is a great return on the investments that local, regional, and state partners have made to provide the site infrastructure that companies need.”

“Scotland County is a community built on strong partnerships, an ideal quality of life, and a central location on the East Coast,” said N.C. Representative Garland E. Pierce. “We welcome Great Southern Wood as an excellent addition to our forest supply chain."

In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the North Carolina Community College System, Richmond Community College, the Golden LEAF Foundation, the North Carolina Railroad Company, CSX Rail, North Carolina’s Southeast, Duke Energy, the Southeast Regional Airport Authority, Scotland County, the Scotland County Economic Development Corporation, the Town of Maxton, and the City of Laurinburg.

Governor Stein Welcomes Students to Their First Day of School

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Governor Stein Welcomes Students to Their First Day of School

Release Date

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:00

sengel Mon, 08/24/2026 - 11:25

Today Governor Josh Stein and State Superintendent Mo Green visited Conn Magnet Elementary School in Raleigh to welcome students back on the first day of school.

“The first day of school is always exciting and holds so much promise for the students starting school across our state!” said Governor Josh Stein. “Thank you to the teachers and staff for all you do to educate our future leaders. Thank you to all the parents for partnering with your schools to help your child succeed. And to all of North Carolina's students, from pre-school to high school: This year is yours for the taking – good luck!”

Last week, Governor Stein visited W.M. Irvin Elementary School in Concord to deliver school supplies collected by the Governor’s Office during the eighth annual Governor’s School Supply Drive. In total, the drive collected more than 110,000 individual items for students in need across the state.

In last week’s NC Strong Update, Governor Stein highlighted how the state is working to keep North Carolina’s public schools strong by investing in student learning and teacher recruitment and retention. Last month, Governor Stein signed into law North Carolina’s first full state budget in more than two years. The budget raises average teacher pay by 8% – the largest average teacher pay raise in 20 years – and increases starting teacher pay by 17%, the largest starting teacher pay raise in nearly 50 years.

The budget also invests in proven programs that support student learning and teacher development. The budget expands the Advanced Teaching Roles program to more schools across the state, creating opportunities for excellent teachers to stay in the classroom while mentoring other teachers. It strengthens early literacy by expanding diagnostic reading assessments and literacy intervention plans in elementary grades and providing Science of Reading training for middle school teachers.

To improve math achievement, the budget funds screening assessments and Mathematics Success Plans for students in the state’s low-performing schools from kindergarten through eighth grade to ensure every child is performing at a high level. It also supports AI literacy in classroom instruction, helping enhance and support the learning experience. Further, the budget enhances statewide school safety initiatives by funding targeted security upgrades — such as cameras, door locks, fencing, and detection equipment.

Governor Stein’s August Column: New Notebooks, New Beginnings

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Governor Stein’s August Column: New Notebooks, New Beginnings

Release Date

Sun, 08/23/2026 - 12:00

sengel Mon, 08/24/2026 - 05:41

This month Governor Josh Stein is welcoming K-12 students back to school. Media outlets are invited to publish the column below from Governor Stein.

As families across North Carolina fill shopping carts with binders and fresh boxes of crayons, another school year is just around the corner. As a dad of three graduates of North Carolina public schools, I have fond memories of back-to-school shopping together: debating backpack colors and making sure everyone had exactly what they needed for the first day. With the new sneakers and new notebooks, you could feel the fresh start, the excitement that comes from a new school year.

I am gratified that as today’s students head back-to-school, their teachers will for the first time in way too long receive meaningful pay raises. This summer, I was proud to sign a state budget that takes an important first step to invest in teachers. Because when we support teachers, equip students, and invest in strong public schools, we create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. And that is what I sought to do with this budget.

At the heart of every successful school are outstanding teachers. Teachers are the single most important in-school factor in a student’s success, and they deserve to be valued accordingly. For too long, North Carolina has struggled to remain competitive in teacher pay and support. This budget puts us back on track. It delivers the largest average teacher pay raise in two decades and the largest increase in starting teacher pay in nearly 50 years. It also provides a 3 percent raise and a bonus for principals, bus drivers, teacher assistants, cafeteria workers, and other dedicated school employees who help keep our schools running every day. Beyond compensation, we are investing in teacher recruitment and retention through apprenticeships, professional development, and licensure improvements. Yet, even with this year’s pay bumps, North Carolina still ranks in the bottom 10 states in teacher pay and other school employees are struggling just to keep pace with inflation. We have more work to do.

We also made important investments that will directly improve student outcomes across the state. Every child deserves access to the tools and support they need to thrive, regardless of where they live. The budget expands the Advanced Teaching Roles program so experienced educators can lead and mentor other teachers without leaving the classroom they love. The budget also strengthens literacy by expanding evidence-based reading supports and extending Science of Reading professional development into middle schools. We are providing new assessment tools to strengthen math achievement in low-performing schools, enhancing school safety through security upgrades, and preparing students for the future by establishing thoughtful AI literacy policies. These investments recognize that preparing students for tomorrow requires meeting the challenges of today.

As the new school year begins, I want to offer my sincere gratitude to our teachers and school staff. Thank you for choosing this profession and for showing up each morning ready to make a difference in the lives of our young people.

To our students, welcome back. Whether you are walking into kindergarten for the very first time or using your new driver’s license to drive to high school, this school year is an opportunity. Be curious and ask questions. Remember that success is measured not only by grades but also by character, perseverance, and the way that we treat each other.

As we crack open new notebooks and welcome these new beginnings, back-to-school season reminds us that education is one of the most important investments we make – not only in our children but also in the future of our state. I am proud of the progress we have made, and I remain committed to ensuring every North Carolina student has the chance to succeed. I wish every public school student, teacher, and family a rewarding school year.

Governor Stein Announces District Court Appointments

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Governor Stein Announces District Court Appointments

Release Date

Fri, 08/21/2026 - 12:00

sengel Mon, 08/24/2026 - 05:45

Today Governor Josh Stein announced the following appointments to the District Court:

A. Michelle Lippert to the District Court for Judicial District 36, serving Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties. Lippert is filling the vacancy created after the Honorable Richard Holloway retired.

Since 2021, Lippert has worked as a managing partner at Beyer & Lippert, PLLC. She previously served for six years in the District Attorney’s Office in Prosecutorial District 25. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Miami University and her Juris Doctor from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Law.

Christy Malott to the District Court for Judicial District 16, serving Durham County. Malott is filling the vacancy created by the resignation of the Honorable Clayton Jones.

Malott serves as the senior assistant county attorney in the Durham County Attorney’s Office. She worked for seven years in several capacities for the Durham Guardian ad Litem Program, first as a court-appointed GAL and most recently as a staff attorney. She also worked as a senior staff attorney at JusticeMatters for more than seven years. She received her Bachelor of Arts from Duke University and her Juris Doctor from the North Carolina Central University School of Law.

“Michelle Lippert and Christy Malott are experienced attorneys who have dedicated themselves to the practice of the law,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Their judgement and experience are invaluable, and I look forward to their service on the bench.”

In NC Strong Update, Governor Stein Highlights Investments in Student and Teacher Success

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

In NC Strong Update, Governor Stein Highlights Investments in Student and Teacher Success

Release Date

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 12:00

sengel Thu, 08/20/2026 - 12:47

Today as students and teachers prepare to return to classrooms across North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein held his latest NC Strong Update to highlight how the state is investing in student learning and teacher recruitment and retention. Governor Stein welcomed a student, teacher, and principal to underscore the importance of these investments to keep North Carolina’s public schools strong.

North Carolina currently ranks second to last nationally in per pupil K-12 funding, spending $5,660 less per student than the national average. The new budget takes important steps to close that gap by investing in the students, educators, and school leaders who are essential to giving every child the opportunity to succeed. That said, there is still a long way to go.

At NC Strong, Governor Stein also provided updates on the DMV and announced this year’s NC Awards recipients and charitable beneficiaries.

Raising Teacher Pay

Last month, Governor Stein signed into law North Carolina’s first full state budget in more than two years. The budget raises average teacher pay by 8% – the largest average teacher pay raise in 20 years – and increases starting teacher pay by 17%, the largest starting teacher pay raise in nearly 50 years.

“Teachers are the single most important in-school factor in a student’s success, and they deserve to be valued accordingly,” said Governor Josh Stein. “For too long, North Carolina has struggled to be competitive in teacher pay and support, but this budget puts us back on track. While we still have more work to do, these raises begin to show teachers just how much we value them.”

“Teachers’ pay doesn’t reflect their sacrifices, the long hours they spend designing lesson plans for their kids, or the money they put toward school supplies from their own pockets,” said Jeremiah Tucker, student body president at Broughton High School. “That’s where the new budget bill comes in. It raises the bar and represents a very good first step into paying teachers what they’re worth. There’s still work to be done, but this budget puts North Carolina on track to do that work.”

Improving Student Outcomes

The budget also invests in proven programs that support student learning and teacher development.

The budget expands the Advanced Teaching Roles program to more schools across the state, creating opportunities for excellent teachers to stay in the classroom while developing leadership experience. It strengthens early literacy by expanding diagnostic reading assessments and literacy intervention plans in elementary grades and providing Science of Reading training for middle school teachers.

“We need to do what works when it comes to educating our kids,” said Governor Josh Stein. “The training all North Carolina elementary school teachers have now received on the Science of Reading is helping kids build a strong foundation in reading. We need to extend that knowledge to middle school educators. And multi-classroom Advanced Teaching Roles enable teachers to extend their reach, impact more students, and progress in their careers without having to leave the classroom.”

“As a teacher who implements the science of reading in my classroom daily, I have seen the direct impact it has on students,” said Gina Holste, a literacy specialist and the 2026 Northwest Regional Teacher of the Year. “I have watched students close gaps and no longer need intervention services as well as teachers grow in the knowledge of the content they are asked to teach. The students in North Carolina deserve the best we have to offer and that begins with evidence-based practices.”

Prioritizing Principal Recruitment

To support turnaround at low-performing schools, the budget expands the Principal Recruitment Supplement Program, in which high-performing principals are recruited to high-need, low-performing schools. Through this program, highly effective principals with a proven record of strong leadership help support the lasting growth and improvement of the students who need it most. This program has shown proven results, with 86% of participating schools meeting or exceeding growth and 50% of participating schools exceeding growth and exiting their low-performing status.

“Principals with a demonstrated record of improving student achievement can produce both immediate academic gains and lasting improvement,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Through investments like the Principal Recruitment Supplement Program, we recognize and reward our excellent principals, and we put even more students on the path to academic success.”

“North Carolina made a bold investment in the belief that leadership matters” said Principal LaTresha Wilson, the 2026 Southwest Region Principal of the Year. “Through the Principal Recruitment Supplement Program, the state provides up to $30,000 annually for three years to recruit and retain highly effective principals in some of its lowest-performing schools. When we place strong leaders in high-need schools, we create the conditions for students, teachers, and entire communities to thrive.”

DMV Updates

Governor Stein also provided updates on DMV service after the summer rush. Recent data shows that in-office waits are down almost 90%, with the average customer waiting only 22 minutes in July.

“I am really proud of our team at DMV for providing excellent customer service throughout the summer rush,” said Governor Josh Stein. “To ensure you have the best experience possible, remember to check live wait times at visitDMV.nc.gov before you go to the DMV. You can make an appointment, but walk ins are easy and welcome, and there is no need to wait in line before opening. And if you might be interested in serving North Carolinians as a Driver License Examiner, Google ‘NCDMV Careers.’ We’d be excited to have you join the team.”

Thanks to updates from Senate Bill 245, which Governor Stein signed into law last September, more than 337,000 customers have newly been able to complete a transaction online and skip the trip to the DMV. In addition, because of the NCDMV’s new document upload tool, more than 70,000 customers have been able to upload documents like proof of insurance from their phone rather than needing a physical copy. The DMV remains committed to improving services by opening new and renovated offices, hiring more examiners, and modernizing its IT systems.

NC Awards

During the NC Strong Update, Governor Stein also announced the six winners of the 2026 North Carolina Awards, recognized for their significant contributions to the state and nation in the fields of fine arts, literature, public service, and science. All net proceeds from ticket sales for the November 17 ceremony will go to two charities that benefit veterans and military families: Blue Star Families and Camp Corral.

“Over the past six decades, the North Carolina Award has been presented to many remarkable North Carolinians. Our 2026 recipients represent the best of our state, and it is a privilege to honor these outstanding people,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am also honored to focus this year’s awards ceremony on supporting active and former servicemembers. North Carolina’s military and veterans have dedicated their lives to protecting our safety and freedoms, and we will continue doing all we can to support them and their families.”

This year’s North Carolina awards recipients are:

Literature: Jason Mott
Public Service: Richard Petty
Public Service: Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen (Ret.)
Public Service: Dr. Randy Woodson
Science: Dr. Lindsay Zanno
Fine Arts: Beverly McIver

Learn more about this year’s North Carolina Awards and secure your tickets here.

Governor Stein Announces More than $1 Billion of Private Investment and 342 New Jobs for Rural North Carolina

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

Governor Stein Announces More than $1 Billion of Private Investment and 342 New Jobs for Rural North Carolina

Release Date

Thu, 08/20/2026 - 12:00

sengel Thu, 08/20/2026 - 15:21

Governor Josh Stein today announced that North Carolina’s Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has approved 11 grant requests for local governments totaling $4,933,520. The grants include commitments to create a total of 673 jobs, 331 of which were previously announced. As a result of these grants, the additional private investment in these projects is expected to reach more than $1 billion.

“North Carolina is full of strong rural communities and great people,” said Governor Josh Stein. “These grants will help them make important improvements, strengthen local infrastructure, create good-paying jobs, and bring new investments to the places people call home.”

The RIA is supported by the rural economic development team at the North Carolina Department of Commerce. RIA members review and approve funding requests from local communities. Funding comes from a variety of specialized grant and loan programs offered and managed by the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Rural Economic Development Division, which is led by Assistant Secretary for Rural Development Reginald Speight. Grants support a variety of activities, including infrastructure development, building renovation, building expansion, building demolition, and site improvements.

“Across North Carolina, rural communities are working hard to create places where businesses want to invest and where people can find good opportunities close to home,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “In keeping with North Carolina’s new First in Opportunity plan, we are proud to partner with rural communities across the state by providing these tools to support infrastructure.”

The RIA approved 10 grant requests under the state’s Building Reuse Program. The grants fall into three categories:

Vacant Building Category

City of Claremont (Catawba County): A $500,000 grant will support renovations of a facility where Prysmian Cables and Systems USA is expanding. The company manufactures a wide range of cable applications in the energy and telecom cable systems industry. The overall project is expected to create 385 jobs, while 110 jobs and an investment of $2,041,072 are tied to this grant.
City of Fayetteville (Cumberland County): A $500,000 grant will support the reuse of a 28,479-square-foot building in Fayetteville where Skyeton Inc., a designer and developer of uncrewed aircraft systems, plans to establish its first U.S. manufacturing facility. The overall project is expected to create 162 jobs, while 93 jobs and an investment of $3,112,435 are tied to this grant.
City of Greensboro (Guilford County): A $500,000 grant will support the reuse of a 100,394-square-foot building in Greensboro. The facility will be occupied by Hoffman & Hoffman, Inc., which markets and sells commercial HVAC equipment, hydronics pumping equipment, and filtration systems. The project is expected to create 131 jobs, while 65 jobs and an investment of $9.7 million are tied to this grant.

Existing Business Building Category

City of Burlington (Alamance County): A $500,000 grant will support the renovation of an 800,000-square-foot building in Graham. Alamance Foods, Inc., a manufacturer of branded and private-label products including aerosol whipped cream, freeze pops, flavored drinks, and bottled water, will expand and add a new product line at this location. The project is expected to create 94 jobs and attract an investment of $36,578,238.
City of Lenoir (Caldwell County): A $186,000 grant will support the renovation of a 103,102-square-foot building in Lenoir to be occupied by Chase Corporation, which manufactures protective materials, including industrial coatings, tapes, adhesives, and sealants, for a variety of industries. The project is expected to create 37 jobs, with an investment of $233,274.
Town of Tarboro (Edgecombe County): A $300,000 grant will support a 28,000-square-foot expansion of an existing building in Tarboro that is occupied by Astemo Indiana, Inc. The company is a global supplier of advanced powertrain systems, autonomous driving and advanced driver-assistance systems, chassis products, and motorcycle components. The project is expected to create 52 jobs, while 37 jobs and an investment of $43,715,000 are tied to this grant.
Town of Tarboro (Edgecombe County): A $280,000 grant will support a 9,200-square-foot expansion of an existing building in Tarboro. This is one of two North Carolina locations for Madem-Moorecraft Reels USA, LLC, a Brazil-based manufacturer of nailed wood and plywood reels for the wire and cable industry. The project is expected to create 40 jobs, with an investment of $2,018,500.
Halifax County: A $95,000 grant will support the renovation of a 125,471-square-foot building in Weldon that is occupied by JBB Packaging, LLC, which manufactures polyethylene bags and sheeting, including pallet covers, mattress bags, and can liners. The project is expected to create 12 jobs, with an investment of $5,202,900.
Pitt County: A $100,000 grant will support the renovation of a 57,038-square-foot building in Winterville that is occupied by Winterville Machine Works. The company provides engineering, precision machining, welding, and fabrication services for customers in industries including marine, transportation, and mining. This project is expected to create nine jobs, with an investment of $474,640.

Rural Health Category

Buncombe County: A $480,000 grant will support the reuse of an 8,740-square-foot building in Black Mountain. Appalachian Mountain Health, Black Mountain, will operate an integrated health care facility offering primary care, behavioral health care, dental, and pharmaceutical services. The project is expected to create 48 jobs, with an investment of $14,591,626.

The Building Reuse Program provides grants to local governments to renovate vacant buildings, renovate and/or expand buildings occupied by existing North Carolina companies, and renovate, expand, or construct health care facilities that will lead to the creation of new jobs in Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties, as well as in rural census tracts of Tier 3 counties.

The RIA approved one grant request under the state’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account program:

City of Wilson (Wilson County): A $1,492,520 grant will upgrade sewer infrastructure at the Wilson Corporate Park to support an expansion by Johnson & Johnson, the world-leading health care company. The creation of 128 jobs and $900 million in private investment are tied to this grant.

The Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account provides grants to local governments located in the 80 most economically distressed counties of the state, which are classified as either Tier 1 or Tier 2. Funds support publicly owned utility infrastructure projects that promote economic growth by encouraging new job creation. The IDF – Utility Account is funded through a process tied to the state’s signature Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) program. When JDIG-awarded companies choose to locate or expand in a Tier 2 or Tier 3 county, a portion of that JDIG award is channeled into the Utility Account. These infrastructure projects typically include improvements or expansions to water, sewer, electric, gas, and broadband systems that directly support business development and industrial expansion.

In addition to reviewing and approving funding requests, the N.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority formulates policies and priorities for grant and loan programs administered by the Commerce Department’s Rural Economic Development team. Its 17 voting members are appointed by the Governor, Speaker of the House, and Senate President Pro Tem. The North Carolina Secretary of Commerce serves as an ex officio member of the authority.

The RIA elected officers at this meeting. Joe Sam Queen of Haywood County is the authority’s new chairman. Ronald Wesson of Bertie County will serve as vice-chair.

Visit the Rural Economic Development Division webpage for more information.