News Summary
Cooper Standard in Spartanburg invited local high school students for tours on National Manufacturing Day, showcasing opportunities in the manufacturing sector. William Floyd emphasized workforce development to equip students with insights into local employment options. Guided by HR Manager Warren Snead, students experienced advanced manufacturing processes and were motivated by peers already in the field. The initiative aims to inspire future careers in manufacturing, which offers well-paying jobs that do not always require a college degree.
Spartanburg, South Carolina—Cooper Standard hosted tours for local high school students on National Manufacturing Day, aimed at inspiring the future workforce in the Upstate region. William Floyd, executive director of the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, attended the event on October 3 to emphasize the importance of having capable workers, especially among middle and high school students.
The tour featured high school students from Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties, providing them with a firsthand look at the operations of the Cooper Standard facility, which employs approximately 500 workers. The facility specializes in manufacturing window sealing parts for leading automakers.
Floyd highlighted the significance of showing students the real opportunities available in their local area as a critical part of workforce development. The students were guided by Human Resources Manager Warren Snead, who showcased the high-tech, automated environment of the plant. During the tours, students observed Tyler Honbarger operating advanced equipment programmed to produce rear window sealing systems for Ford Explorers.
Honbarger and fellow Broome High School student Zane Blackwell, both set to graduate in 2024, served as role models for their peers during the visit. Snead indicated that positions at Cooper Standard and similar manufacturing facilities provide well-paying jobs that do not necessarily require a college degree, while still encouraging higher education.
Blackwell, who currently enjoys his job, mentioned considering further education but finds value in the immediate employment opportunities available to him. Kris Teal, a Career Development Facilitator at Boiling Springs High School, echoed the necessity of exposing students to local manufacturing careers, as this can significantly influence their future choices.
In support of creating a pipeline for local employment, the SC Works offices collaborate with schools and employers to strengthen workforce development initiatives across each county. Additionally, OneSpartanburg plans to hold a “signing day” ceremony on October 9, where local employers will make commitments to provide internships and work-based learning experiences for students.
The Spartanburg Academic Movement (SAM) has introduced the “Big Mo” initiative to further support high school students pursuing higher education at local colleges. Floyd praised Snead for his role as an ambassador for job opportunities and for mentoring students on essential job application practices, including appropriate interview attire.
New developments in the region’s manufacturing sector include a new Woodward plant in Spartanburg County, which is expected to start operations in 2027 and create 275 jobs. This facility will focus on producing servo-hydraulic actuation systems for aircraft flight control, with the project receiving financial backing from the Coordinating Council for Economic Development for its preparation and construction.
The manufacturing sector in Upstate South Carolina is experiencing significant growth, driving an increased demand for skilled workers and introducing a variety of job opportunities. Local young professionals, such as Brandon Tessneer, a 23-year-old tool and die maker, shared their experiences regarding the value of relevant job training over traditional college degrees. Tessneer gained skills through Swofford Career Center and later pursued an associate degree at Spartanburg Community College to complement his practical experience.
The Upstate SC Alliance is actively working on attracting manufacturing companies that require skilled labor while also evaluating community training programs. Companies within the region are investing in their employees’ ongoing education to keep pace with the rapidly changing technology in manufacturing trades.
Tessneer remarked on the plentiful skilled trade job opportunities available in the Upstate, which is well-suited for manufacturing. Additionally, Governor Henry McMaster marked the opening of Milo’s Tea Company’s new $200 million facility in Spartanburg, which is set to generate over 200 jobs and incorporate sustainable practices into its operations.
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Additional Resources
- GoUpstate: Employers Looking for Next Generation of Capable Workers
- Google Search: Spartanburg manufacturing jobs
- WSPA: Milo’s Tea Manufacturing Plant Officially Opens
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina manufacturing
- Upstate Business Journal: Blue Collar Job Boom
- Google News: Spartanburg jobs
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
