Gov. McMaster says Boeing will create new SC jobs months after announcing layoffs

CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCIV) — Boeing plans to expand its Charleston County operations with a $1 billion investment in infrastructure upgrades, creating 500 new jobs over the next five years, Governor Henry McMaster announced Thursday. This news comes a couple of months after the aerospace company announced a cut of about 10% of its workforce nationwide.

A release sent out in mid-November announcedthey would reduce their workforce in South Carolina by approximately 220 jobs. 211 of those jobs are at the North Charleston location. Those layoffs were set to take effect Jan. 17, 2025.

Despite the seemingly contradictory announcements from Boeing, Governor Henry McMaster said this is a win for South Carolina.

“Boeing’s decision to expand in Charleston County further solidifies South Carolina’s position as a leader in the aerospace industry,” McMaster said. “This significant investment and the 500 new jobs it will bring to the Lowcountry reflect Boeing’s confidence in our workforce and highlights the strength of our pro-business environment. We look forward to continuing to build our partnership and the opportunities this expansion will bring to our state.”

PREVIOUSLY: “Boeing to cut 220 jobs in South Carolina, impacting North Charleston most significantly”

Boeing first began operating in South Carolina in 2009 and employs more than 7,800 people across its Airport and North Campuses in North Charleston, and its West Campus in Orangeburg, according to a release from the governor’s office.