Johnston County Economic Development

03/24/2026

National Ag Day — March 24, 2026
National Ag Day celebrates the enormous role agriculture plays in our daily lives, from the safe, affordable food on our tables to the fiber and materials that support modern living. Hosted by the Agriculture Council of America, this annual observance shines a spotlight on the farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers whose dedication fuels our economy and strengthens our nation’s food security.

Here in Johnston County, agriculture isn’t just part of our heritage — it remains the number one industry, driving local jobs, supporting families, and shaping the landscape of our community. From row crops and livestock to agribusiness and innovation, Johnston County’s agricultural sector continues to anchor the local economy and contribute to North Carolina’s broader agricultural success.

This year’s theme, “Together We Grow,” marks 250 years of American agricultural progress. It’s a reminder that innovation, stewardship, and community have always been at the heart of our agricultural story — nationally and right here at home. Johnston County’s farmers and producers embody that spirit every day, proving that when agriculture thrives, our entire community grows stronger.

02/19/2026

Hope Center Ministries, Inc. is a powerful tool in my economic toolbox when it comes to answering one of the most important questions companies ask when considering growth or expansion in Johnston County: Where does the talent come from?

Their work helps strengthen our workforce pipeline by restoring lives, stabilizing families, and preparing individuals to re-enter the job market with purpose, discipline, and support. That matters ... not just socially, but economically. A stronger, more resilient workforce makes Johnston County a stronger place to invest.

Today, Hope Center Ministries is recognizing area businesses and industries that have partnered with this incredible organization across Johnston County and the region. Stevens Sausage Co, Deacon Jones Auto Group, RiverWILD, Guy C. Lee Headquarters, Raleigh East Concrete, Bay Valley Companies, Shield Republic and AdVenture Development ... just to name a few.

These partnerships don’t just change individual lives, they help build a more dependable, prepared, and motivated workforce for employers across the Triangle East region.

Hope Center Ministries operates long-term, faith-based recovery programs for men and women, helping individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives through a structured, three‑phase model grounded in biblical principles. With locations across North Carolina, including Wilson's Mills, Selma and Princeton,the organization provides life-skills training, career readiness, job placement support, and ongoing spiritual and emotional guidance. Their mission is simple but transformative: restore lives, restore families, and restore communities.

When individuals succeed, employers succeed. And when employers succeed, Johnston County grows.

Proud to celebrate the businesses who invest in this mission and proud to support an organization that continues to strengthen the talent pipeline that fuels our region’s economic future.

02/12/2026

A great morning at Johnston Community College’s Breakfast Before Business event.

We heard a powerful student testimonial, followed by an inspiring update from President Dr. Vern Lindquist, who shared remarkable news: this spring, JCC enrolled more than 6,000 students and has grown over 60% since 2021—making it the fastest‑growing community college in the nation.

The program also celebrated the 2025 Industry Partners of the Year - Johnston County Emergency Services and Caterpillar the Town of Clayton, NC Government, for their commitment to strengthening our region’s workforce and supporting JCC’s mission.

Attendees were treated to insights from keynote speaker Stephanie Norris, Associate Director at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, who provided valuable perspective on the economic landscape shaping our region.

Proud to see JCC continuing to lead, grow, and elevate opportunities across Johnston County.

02/05/2026

Johnston County just unlocked a major win for our life sciences future!

The Johnston County Economic Development office is thrilled to announce a $1.5 million grant from the The Golden LEAF Foundation’s Community-Based Grants Initiative, a transformational investment that strengthens our commitment to the incredible companies, Novo Nordisk and Grifols Therapeutics that already call Johnston County home.

This funding will power the expansion of the Johnston Community College / JCC Biotech Workforce Development Center in Town of Clayton, NC Government, helping us grow the talent pipeline that fuels innovation, supports industry needs, and creates life‑changing career opportunities right here in our community.

This is what partnership looks like. This is what progress feels like. And this is how Johnston County continues to rise as a leader in North Carolina’s life sciences ecosystem.

For more information about the Golden LEAF foundation and the grants they have provided, click here: https://goldenleaf.org/golden-leaf-announces-17-3-million-in-funding-at-february-meeting/

01/21/2026

What’s been accomplished here is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when public and private partners align around a shared vision—and stay focused on the future.

The Johnston Community College Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Training Center in Four Oaks is more than a building. It’s a 67,000-square-foot commitment to the next generation of talent. With $40 million invested and strong support from local and state leaders, this facility delivers hands-on training in welding, machining, and applied and mechanical engineering—equipping students with the skills to thrive in today’s advanced manufacturing economy.

Strategically positioned along the I-95 corridor, this center is a beacon for industry, a launchpad for careers, and a testament to what collaboration can achieve.

01/08/2026

Proud to share that two transformative Johnston County projects ... the Vulcan Elements facility in Benson and the Johnston Community College Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Training Center in Four Oaks has been recognized for the Triangle Business Journal’s 2026 Space Award.

These honors spotlight not just bricks and mortar, but bold vision: one powering the future of materials innovation, the other preparing the next generation of skilled talent. Together, they reflect Johnston County’s commitment to growing jobs for its citizens and youth of tomorrow.

Congratulations to all involved in bringing these projects to life!

11/25/2025

Agriculture is more than a tradition in Johnston County, it is the county’s leading economic driver, sustaining thousands of jobs and businesses. Contributing to North Carolina’s $111 billion agriculture and agribusiness industry, Johnston County plays a vital role with crops such as to***co and sweet potatoes.

The value of local farming extends far beyond economics. Farms provide food security, clean air and water, flood control, wildlife habitat, and access to fresh, healthy foods, benefits that enrich the entire community. Recognizing this, county leaders have established programs like the Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) to encourage landowners to preserve farmland and maintain agricultural production.

This week, in collaboration with Bryant Spivey and his team at the Johnston County office of the North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension Service, the Johnston County Economic Development office proudly recognizes Farm-City Week. The celebration highlights the essential partnership between farmers, agribusinesses, truckers, processors, and consumers ... reminding us that agriculture connects every corner of our community.

11/19/2025

Even after the excitement of yesterday’s announcement of Vulcan Elements, there’s no time to rest on our laurels. This morning, the Johnston County Economic Development office joined the Johnston County HR Professionals Network, led by the ever-energizing Joy Callahan, for a powerful session focused on workforce connectivity.

We were honored to hear from Robert Boyette and the Johnston County Veterans Service team, who are championing efforts to bridge Johnston County industries with the thousands of military personnel transitioning to civilian life through the SkillBridge program.

The talent is there. The drive is there. But too often, connections fall short due to differences in language and terminology between military and civilian sectors. That’s where conversations like today’s matter.

Aneesa Jagoo, active-duty Army and currently embedded at Novo Nordisk through SkillBridge, shared firsthand insight into the transition experience—what works, what’s missing, and how employers can better align with the incredible potential of our service members.

11/08/2025

JOCO Works is more than a career expo.... it’s a spark that lights the path to possibility. Driven by the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce, with support from the Johnston County Public Schools, Johnston Community College, Clayton Chamber of Commerce and Benson Area Chamber of Commerce-North Carolina, this powerful initiative brings together over 3,500 eighth-grade students and more than 40 local industries in a celebration of potential and purpose.

From biotech to construction, healthcare to agriculture, students step into immersive, hands-on experiences that reveal the real-world skills behind the careers shaping our region. They don’t just learn about jobs, they meet the people who do them. Companies like Novo Nordisk, Caterpillar Inc., Grifols and dozens of others open their doors and their stories, helping students see a future they can believe in—and build right here in Johnston County.

By reaching students early, JOCO Works plants seeds of ambition and direction, aligning education with opportunity. It’s not just about workforce development—it’s about inspiring the next generation to dream boldly, prepare confidently, and rise together.

Thank you WRAL TV for the coverage of this amazing event.

The event, put on by the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce with Johnston County Schools and Johnston Community College, introduces eighth-grade students to the top companies in the community.

09/26/2025

Today at noon, the Johnston Community College officially opened the doors to the Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Development Center in the Town of Four Oaks.

This transformative facility is the result of a dynamic collaboration between the North Carolina General Assembly, Johnston County Government, and the Town of Four Oaks, North Carolina - brought to life under the strategic guidance of the I-95 / I-40 Crossroads of America Economic Development Alliance, Inc.

Purpose-built to meet the evolving demands of both established and emerging industries, the Center offers students access to cutting-edge technologies, hands-on training, and pathways to high-demand careers. From welding and robotics to applied engineering and machining, this space is designed to prepare talent for the jobs of tomorrow.

By bridging education and industry, the Center is more than a building—it’s a catalyst for economic growth, workforce readiness, and community pride. It’s a bold investment in Johnston County and region’s future, and a clear signal that opportunity lives here.

09/25/2025

Vote!!!!

🔥 FINAL DAY to Vote! 🔥

😎 We’re in the FINALS for the “Coolest Thing Made in NC” — hosted by the North Carolina Chamber — and we need your support! 🙌

👉 Cast your vote before 9:00 PM EST tonight: https://m.cmpgn.page/hhfTqT?sre=7rM9MAsElGJY9SN

Thank you so much!!! 😁