“We’re excited to welcome another native North Carolinian to our team.” Says President of the Chatham EDC, Michael Smith. “He brings valuable private-sector experience and has already demonstrated his commitment to economic development by joining the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA) as he makes the transition into the profession. We’re pleased to have him on board and look forward to the perspective and energy he’ll bring to our work.”

In his role, Fasnacht will lead business retention and expansion (BRE) outreach by meeting directly with employers to identify opportunities and challenges related to workforce, infrastructure, permitting and other factors that impact business operations. He will also coordinate with local, regional and state partners to help connect businesses with resources and solutions.

Fasnacht is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a degree in Economics with minors in History and Entrepreneurship

Fasnacht brings experience in project management, business outreach, research and relationship development. Most recently, he served as a Client Development Lead at proSapient, where he managed complex research projects and cultivated relationships with more than 1,600 C-level executives. During his time with the company, he was also recognized as a top performer on his team.

His previous experience includes marketing, request for proposal (RFP) pursuit management and customer relationship management (CRM) analytics with Ramey Kemp and Associates, as well as community engagement support with Raleigh Founded. His skills in relationship-building, project management, research, and sales make him an incredible asset to the Chatham EDC team.

“I’m very excited to join the Chatham County EDC team.” Says Fasnacht. “I look forward to working closely with our local business community, building strong partnerships, and supporting the retention and expansion of the industries that drive our economy and communities forward.”

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About Chatham Economic Development Corporation

Chatham County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is the lead economic development agency for Chatham County. The EDC is a 501(c)3 economic development non-profit that provides support to businesses throughout the county and markets Chatham County as the preferred location for emerging growth companies.

About Chatham County
Chatham County takes center stage in North Carolina, strategically located between the Research Triangle and Piedmont Triad. The third-fastest growing county in the state is home to the towns of Pittsboro, Siler City and Goldston as well as several unique rural communities. Residents and visitors alike enjoy 30+ miles of trails and abundant greenspace, 5 golf courses, and an additional 85 miles of greenways are in the works. Chatham also features Jordan Lake, the second-most visited state park in North Carolina. Chatham Park, one of the largest mixed-use developments in the nation is currently underway in Pittsboro.

Contact
Monica Alvarado, Marketing and Communications Specialist

Office: 919-545-8380

Cell: 919-548-7311

monica.alvarado@chathamcountync.gov

The post Chatham EDC Welcomes Josh Fasnacht as Business Retention and Expansion Manager appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

SANFORD, N.C. — As North Carolina’s biotech industry growth accelerates, Central Carolina Community College is celebrating the opening of a facility that will prepare students for highly-skilled biotechnology manufacturing jobs.

The newly renovated Biotechnology Building is part of the E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center on CCCC’s Lee Main Campus in Sanford.

“We’re going to show you something that has been a dream for a very long time,” said CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman, addressing guests at a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Biotechnology Building on Aug.14.

She praised Sanford Contractors for their renovation of the building and gave thanks for the many partners and CCCC employees who worked for years to help make it possible.

“I think we can all see the excellence in this facility,” she said.

In the Biotechnology Building, students will develop the knowledge and abilities needed to manufacture complex Life Science products, including pharmaceuticals. They will learn hands-on skills that are valuable to area biotech companies, helping ensure the safety and efficacy of the lifesaving products these companies create.

North Carolina’s life sciences industry has grown to include 860 companies statewide that employ 76,000 North Carolinians, according to Dr. Laura Rowley, Vice President for Life Science Economics Development at the North Carolina Biotechnology Center, who spoke at the event.

Just over a week prior to the ribbon cutting, leading healthcare company STERIS announced plans to create a new manufacturing and distribution center in Sanford, joining other key biotech players like Pfizer, Kyowa Kirin, and Astellas in making major investments in the region.

Meanwhile, CCCC’s Bioprocess Technology program has gone from sharing a single lab with the science department, to having its own lab, and now to having its own building, said Dr. Lisa Smelser, CCCC’s Executive Director of Workforce Strategic Initiatives.

Close to fifty students are currently enrolled in CCCC’s Bioprocess Technology Associate Degree program, including both adults and high school students. Across its three-county service area, the college has been training about 150 students per year in its BioWork short course.

The new facility will expand capacity for that course to more than 300 students per year and greatly increase scheduling flexibility and capacity for CCCC’s customized training programs for industry partners.

Students in CCCC’s biotech classes will benefit from cutting-edge labs, flexible learning spaces, and opportunities for hands-on training aligned with industry needs.

The new Biotechnology Building was designed with help from CCCC’s industry partners. It includes two labs to accommodate CCCC’s continuing education and industry training classes, as well as a large hybrid lab/classroom with flexibility to respond to current and changing technologies.

CCCC has named that hybrid space the Kyowa Kirin Innovation Hub in honor of the pharmaceutical group, a key partner and sponsor.

“When we chose Sanford for Kyowa Kirin’s first North American manufacturing facility, we knew we were making a long-term commitment not only to our business, but to this community,” said Paul Testa, the group’s Executive Vice President of Supply Chain Management.

“The Kyowa Kirin Innovation Hub is a realization of that commitment,” he said. “By investing in education and building the skills needed for careers in biomanufacturing, we are helping local talent become part of Sanford/Lee County’s growing life sciences industry. A strong manufacturing future depends on a skilled workforce and the capabilities we need to serve patients.”

Brad Mickey, Executive Director/Manufacturing and Operations Site Head for Astellas, said that his company contributed suggestions to tweak the design of the building to help students learn industry-standard quality control procedures to avoid contamination and for analytics and monitoring in support of quality control.

The facility, he said, provides great opportunities for students.

“It gives them the opportunity to learn the business, to learn the fundamental aspects of manufacturing, build the confidence they need to enter the workforce and do great things,” he said.

Dave Posehn, Site Lead for Pfizer in Sanford, also spoke of how CCCC’s new Biotechnology Building will help train Pfizer employees and change the dynamics of the region as local students come through CCCC’s biotechnology programs.

“To have a biotech center like this will be a pillar of future growth in the community,” he said. “It’s going to be amazing.”

For more information on CCCC’s Bioprocess Technology programs visit www.cccc.edu/bioprocess.

Ribbon Cutting

CCCC leaders and key partners hold the ceremonial ribbon at a ribbon cutting for CCCC’s newly renovated Biotechnology Building at the E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center.

From left to right are Bill Welsh (Senior Director of Manufacturing for Kyowa Kirin), Lisa G. Minter (Lee County Manager), Eugene Moore (philanthropist), Julian Philpott (Chairman of CCCC’s Board of Trustees), Dr. Lisa M. Chapman (President of CCCC), Brad Mickey (Executive Director/Manufacturing and Operations Site Head for Astellas), and Dave Posehn (Site Lead for Pfizer in Sanford).

Dr. Lisa M. Chapman

At the Aug. 14 ribbon cutting ceremony for CCCC’s New Biotechnology Building, CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman praised Sanford Contractors for their renovation of the building and gave thanks for the many partners and CCCC employees who worked for years to help make it possible. “I think we can all see the excellence in this facility,” she said.

Sign

CCCC Board of Trustees Chairman Julian Philpott and Kyowa Kirin Senior Director of Manufacturing Bill Welsh applaud following the unveiling of a sign for the new Kyowa Kirin Innovation Hub, a large hybrid lab/classroom with flexibility to respond to current and changing technologies.

View

During CCCC’s ribbon cutting ceremony for the Biotechnology Building, guests had the opportunity to view renderings for anticipated future renovations at CCCC’s E. Eugene Moore Manufacturing and Biotech Solutions Center, a multi-building facility that is part of CCCC’s Lee Main Campus in Sanford.

Cell Culture

The Cell Culture room in CCCC’s newly renovated Biotechnology Building.

BioWork

Lab space for CCCC’s BioWork program, which provides short-term training to prepare students for roles as process technicians. The lab is part of CCCC’s newly renovated Biotechnology Building.

The post New CCCC Biotechnology Building expands workforce training for growing industry appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

The Board of Commissioners will consider appointments to several Town boards and committees at its September 2026 meeting. Residents interested in serving are encouraged to submit an application no later than Friday, September 11, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Planning Board (ETJ) / Board of Adjustment

The Planning Board advises the Board of Commissioners on matters related to land use planning, zoning, development regulations, and long-range planning initiatives. The Planning Board also serves as the Town’s Board of Adjustment and hears appeals, variances, and other quasi-judicial matters as provided by state law and local ordinance.

Immigrant Advisory Committee

The Immigrant Advisory Committee serves as a liaison between the Town and Siler City’s diverse immigrant communities. The committee promotes communication and engagement, identifies community needs, and concerns, and provides recommendations to the Board of Commissioners on issues affecting immigrant residents.

Parks and Recreation Committee

The Parks and Recreation Committee advises the Board of Commissioners and Town staff on matters related to parks, recreational facilities, programs, special events, and opportunities to enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages.

Applicants must meet any residency or eligibility requirements associated with the board or committee for which they are applying.

How to Apply

Interested individuals may complete an application online at Applications for Boards & Committees or obtain a printed application from Siler City Town Hall, 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, NC 27344.

The Town of Siler City encourages residents from all backgrounds and areas of the community to apply. Citizen volunteers play an important role in supporting thoughtful decision-making and strengthening our community.

Questions may be directed to Town Clerk Briana Martinez at (919) 742-4731 or bmartinez@silercity.gov.

Serve Your Community. Share Your Voice. Make a Difference.

The post Town of Siler City Seeks Applicants for Advisory Boards and Committees appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

“RALEIGH/DURHAM, N.C. – MOSAIC, a 44-acre, $180 million entertainment and lifestyle destination in Pittsboro, N.C., announces six new tenants for the commercial gateway to Chatham Park, an 8,500-acre live-work-play-learn community currently under development in Chatham County. Neighboring grocery-anchored shopping center Northwood Landing also announces two new tenants.

“We are committed to curating the right tenant mix to serve our community,” says MOSAIC Developer Kirk Bradley. “We are providing a high-quality retail and amenity-rich environment to ensure the viability of local business owners and regional brands alike.”

MOSAIC is located at Highway 501 and Russet Run Road near U.S. Highway 64 in Pittsboro, N.C. The new tenants include:

• a Tavolo: The newest venture from the husband-and-wife team behind Pittsboro’s The Sycamore and 39 West Catering, this Italian restaurant will specialize in fresh pastas, pizzas, and entrees in an elevated-casual atmosphere with a full bar. Slated to open August 2026, the 2,960-square-foot restaurant will seat 100 – 120 diners in both indoor and patio seating that faces The Works Yard in the heart of MOSAIC.
• First Horizon Bank: This Memphis, Tennessee-based regional bank, with a strong presence in the Triangle, has acquired a 0.85-acre lot at 99 Russet Run for $2.65 million. The freestanding, 3,150-square-foot building is a second Pittsboro location for this full-service financial institution.
• Flying Biscuit: The iconic Atlanta-based breakfast and lunch destination will occupy nearly 3,000 square feet in a new building slated for a June 2026 construction start. The restaurant will open in Q3 2027. First established in 1993, Flying Biscuit now has 34 locations throughout the Southeast. Besides its eponymous biscuits, the restaurant is known for its grits, benedicts, and other all-day breakfast specialties.
• New View Eye Care: This vision and eye care specialist is relocating to a 2,500-square-foot storefront in the same building as Flying Biscuit, set to be complete March 2027. Led by Dr. Mark Wesoloski II, a North Carolina native who recently relocated to Pittsboro, the practice offers comprehensive eye exams, medical eye care, and optical services.
• Pecan Jacks: The first Pecan Jacks location in North Carolina, the 1,390-square-foot storefront will offer its famous homemade ice cream, Southern pralines and brittles, house-made candies, and alcohol-infused dessert and candy options. Located in the same building as Verizon, the beloved brand has seven locations mainly in the Southeast, and seven more in the pipeline. Pecan Jacks is scheduled to open late summer.
• Verizon: The national cellular service provider will occupy a 1,500-square-foot endcap space in a building off Highway 501, near Refuel convenience store and fueling stations. Expecting to open Q4 2026, the store will be inline with Jersey Mike’s, Pecan Jacks, Harris & Company Insurance, and People’s Coffee.

Two new businesses have recently opened at Northwood Landing, a development across Highway 501 from MOSAIC, anchored by Lowes Foods and Medley, a 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartment community. Chase Bank opened in late December 2025 as part of the company’s nationwide expansion plan that included growing its Triangle presence to more than 20 branches. Northwood Landing also welcomed Wells Family Dental Group, a practice offering general dentistry, a variety of procedures, dentures, orthodontic care, and cosmetic dentistry in a state-of-the-art, 3,000-square-foot space. The practice opened its doors in May. These new businesses join Dunkin’, O.M.Tea, Zaxby’s, Haw River Animal Hospital, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, Great Clips, Hubie’s Express Car Wash, NailShiny, FirstHealth of the Carolinas, and ABC Commission.

Construction and predevelopment work at MOSAIC continues with commercial and residential buildings. Currently, eight of the 17 buildings planned for MOSAIC are complete, one is currently under construction and nine are in pre-construction phase. The project is expected to be fully complete by 2030. In 2025, the Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons welcomed over 24,000 guests to more than 55 events including live music, movies, fitness classes, and markets.

According to NC State University’s Center for Geospatial Analytics report, Chatham County is poised for significant growth, and the population could nearly double from 82,000 to 158,000, over the next 10 years. Pittsboro’s population grew 11.3% between 2020 and 2025. The trade area features an average household income of nearly $140,000. Located within the Raleigh-Durham metro area, MOSAIC is near Tier 1 research universities University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC State University and Duke University, as well as UNC Healthcare and Duke Health facilities; Research Triangle Park; and popular recreational areas such as B. Everett Jordan Lake and the Haw River.

Upon completion, Chatham Park is expected to comprise approximately 22,000 homes, with 22 million sq. ft. of office, research, retail, educational, and community space available to its 60,000+ residents.

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ABOUT MOSAIC
MOSAIC at Chatham Park is a 44-acre, mixed-used development serving as the commercial gateway to Chatham Park, an 8-500-acre live-work-play-learn community located in Pittsboro, NC near the Raleigh-Durham metro area. Once complete, this $180 million entertainment and lifestyle destination will offer 200,000+ sq. ft. of local and regional shops, restaurants and services; 125,000 sq. ft of office; a 121-key Hampton Inn & Suites; 405 apartment homes including the 165-unit The Guild; 45 luxury condominiums at Tessera at MOSAIC; 79°West Innovation Hub; and Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons event lawn and stage. Learn more at https://www.mosaicatchathampark.com/.”

The post Mosaic at Chatham Park Announces 6 New Tenants appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

We’re pleased to share that the Board of Commissioners has officially approved the resolution to join the North Carolina C-PACE Program. This means the program is now available to all commercial properties in the county, including those within town limits.

The post Board of Commissioners Approves C-PACE Resolution appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

“Ranking in the top five for economy, workforce and business friendliness, the State garners the honor in a year of economic volatility thanks to outpacing the nation’s other states in job wins.

Watch Governor Stein’s Interview Here

Read the Official CNBC Article Here

North Carolina has been ranked the #1 state for business in three of the past four years and has consistently placed in the top five in 2019, and from 2021 through 2025.

The post For the Third Time in Four Years, CNBC Names North Carolina as America’s “Top State for Business” appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

Reshoring and Supply Chain Resilience

One explanation for the manufacturing boom is the shift towards reshoring, which is the process of bringing production or manufacturing back to the country of origin (Jacobs). Companies are prioritizing supply chain resilience, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, and investing in domestic production facilities. This became especially apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted vulnerabilities in global supply chains. As a result, many businesses that once relied on foreign production sought more local solutions.

Advancements in Technology and Automation

In recent years, we have seen how advanced technology and automation—most notably Artificial Intelligence (AI)—have significantly impacted our everyday lives. Manufacturing is no exception and has benefited greatly from these advancements.

Forbes Magazine has highlighted several ways AI has improved the manufacturing industry, one of which is quality assurance. Many companies use AI to enhance quality control, resulting in more consistent and reliable products. AI also helps with machine monitoring, enabling companies to detect maintenance needs early, which helps prevent costly breakdowns and increases efficiency and productivity (ForbesExpertPanel).

Automation has also played a crucial role in cost reduction. Though initial investments may seem substantial, there are also substantial savings in the long term (“Automation in the Manufacturing Industry”).

The Impact of the Manufacturing Boom on Local Communities

The rise in manufacturing has a positive and substantial impact on local communities. Manufacturing growth promotes economic prosperity in smaller towns by creating job opportunities at various skill levels. The average manufacturing salary in the United States is around $43,000, with more experienced workers earning up to $100,000 per year. These stable incomes lead to increased consumer spending, which, in turn, strengthens local economies. As a result, rural and smaller communities see growth in local businesses, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, enhancing the overall quality of life.

This manufacturing boom also fosters interest in skill development. According to growthdimensions.org, “The presence of manufacturing facilities in a community encourages skill development and education. Local schools, colleges, and technical institutions may collaborate with these facilities to offer training programs that cater to the specific needs of the industry. This fosters a culture of continuous learning, enabling residents to acquire skills that are not only valuable within the manufacturing sector but also transferable to other industries.” (“The Crucial Role of Manufacturing Facilities in Building Strong Communities”)

Looking Ahead

As the manufacturing industry continues to expand, job opportunities for workers and business prospects for smaller communities, such as Chatham County, will continue to grow. With a strong emphasis on economic prosperity, reshoring, and increasing demand for domestic production, the future of manufacturing looks promising.

Stay connected with the Chatham EDC to learn more about the opportunities available in Chatham County and how we can support your growth.

For more information on the latest developments in Chatham County, visit our LinkedIn page at Chatham EDC on LinkedIn.

The post Why Manufacturing is Booming appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

We are seeking thoughtful, forward-looking individuals who are committed to supporting the economic advancement of Chatham County.

Board service offers an opportunity to engage with local leaders, provide strategic insight, and contribute to initiatives that support business growth and community well-being. We welcome applications from individuals with diverse perspectives, professional expertise, and a strong interest in the county’s long-term success.

Applications will be accepted through May 15, 2025.

Chatham EDC Board Application 2025

The post Applications Open for Chatham EDC Board of Directors appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.

“Governor Roy Cooper announced today that MetOx International Inc., a pioneering manufacturer of high-temperature superconducting wire, will build a major production facility in Chatham County, creating 333 jobs. The company will invest $193.7 million in North Carolina.

“Many cutting-edge technologies power the clean energy economy, and it’s great to see MetOx and its superconducting technology join us here in Chatham County,” said Governor Cooper. “Reducing carbon emissions will keep us safer and healthier while putting more money in the pockets of North Carolina families, and we’re excited to bring more clean tech company jobs to our state.”

MetOx, with headquarters in Houston, Texas, is a leader in High Temperature Superconducting technology (HTS) and the company is dedicated to advancing new energy solutions and establishing a resilient HTS manufacturing base in the United States. Through partnerships with strategic investors, MetOx is driving innovation and strengthening supply chains for critical superconducting applications across multiple industries.

HTS is an advanced power delivery technology, capable of transmitting extremely high power at low voltage with zero heat generation or energy loss. This breakthrough technology is revolutionizing critical energy sectors, including power transmission, distribution, and grid expansion, while uniquely meeting the high-power demands of AI-driven applications and hyperscale data centers. HTS is also pivotal in enabling high-field magnet applications such as next-generation wind turbines, motors and generators for clean aviation and aerospace, advanced defense systems, and magnetic confinement fusion energy.”

To read more, visit the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s website.

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“S.T. Wooten Corp. of Wilson has announced its acquisition of Moncure’s Capital Ready Mix Concrete.

The post Large construction firm acquires Triangle business appeared first on Chatham County Economic Development Corporation.