On December 4, 2024, Governor Roy Cooper announced that Wieland, a leading global manufacturer of copper and copper alloy products, will invest more than $27 million to expand its production facility in Pine Hall, Stokes County. This significant expansion will create 50 new jobs with average annual wages of $56,900, well above the Stokes County average of $36,481. The new jobs are projected to have an annual payroll impact exceeding $2.8 million, boosting the local economy.

“North Carolina’s reputation as a leader in manufacturing is reinforced by Wieland’s decision to grow its operations here,” said Governor Cooper. “Our talented workforce and commitment to innovation make high-quality jobs like these possible.”

Wieland is a global leader in semi-finished copper and copper alloy products, catering to industries such as air conditioning, refrigeration, electronics, and automotive. The Pine Hall facility expansion is part of the company’s strategy to address rising market demands for energy-efficient cooling systems and tubing, particularly in the HVAC, defense, and aerospace industries. The project includes the addition of new manufacturing lines to produce high-performance Tech Tubes and Cold Plates. Tech Tubes are designed to optimize heat transfer in air conditioning and refrigeration systems, while Cold Plates enhance the efficiency and longevity of electronic devices by providing advanced cooling solutions.

“This announcement demonstrates Wieland’s dedication to the Pine Hall community and our mission to produce high-quality, American-made products,” said Ivan Di Stefano, President of Wieland Thermal Solutions and Senior Vice President of Wieland Group. “We appreciate the support of the North Carolina Department of Commerce and Stokes County, whose efforts have been instrumental in advancing this project.”

The expansion is supported by a $100,000 performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund. This grant provides financial assistance to local governments to attract economic investments and create jobs. Companies must meet specific job creation and investment targets to qualify for payment, ensuring accountability. Matching contributions from local governments are required as part of the grant conditions.

N.C. Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders highlighted the project’s importance, stating, “Wieland’s growth is a significant achievement for Pine Hall and North Carolina’s thriving aerospace, defense, IT, and manufacturing sectors. I’m eager to see the innovative, green technologies they will produce in our state.”

Local leaders celebrated Wieland’s continued commitment to the community. “Wieland Copper Products has been a cornerstone of Pine Hall for over a decade,” said N.C. Senator Dana Jones. Representative Kyle Hall added, “This expansion is a milestone for Stokes County, and we’re grateful for Wieland’s dedication to our state.”

The project involved collaboration between the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Forsyth Tech Community College, and Stokes County’s economic development team. Wieland’s investment underscores North Carolina’s standing as a leader in manufacturing innovation and sustainable economic growth.