Gillespie Precast Expands to Asheboro, Investing Millions in New Facility

In Randolph County, North Carolina, a quiet economic shift is underway. Gillespie Precast, a family-owned company known for crafting sturdy concrete products, has chosen Asheboro as the site for a new $10 million manufacturing plant. The announcement, made by Governor Josh Stein on April 17, 2025, promises to bring 39 jobs to the region, offering a glimmer of opportunity for local workers and businesses alike.

The decision reflects a broader trend of manufacturing firms eyeing North Carolina for its skilled workforce and business-friendly environment. For Asheboro, a community rooted in small-town values, the plant’s arrival signals more than just jobs; it’s a chance to strengthen the local economy and put the county on the map as a hub for industry.

Gillespie Precast, headquartered in Chestertown, Maryland, has built a reputation over five generations for producing precast concrete products like utility vaults, manholes, and box culverts. These components, molded off-site and installed at construction sites, are critical for infrastructure projects across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and now the South. The Asheboro facility will focus on meeting demand in these regions, leveraging North Carolina’s strategic location.

The company’s $10 million investment will create jobs with an average salary of $64,154, significantly higher than Randolph County’s current average wage of $49,355. These positions, ranging from skilled technicians to administrative roles, are expected to offer stability and upward mobility for local families. Beyond wages, Gillespie’s commitment to quality and community service aligns with the county’s ethos, as noted by Frank Sisk, the company’s director of business development, who praised Asheboro’s welcoming environment.

Manufacturing plants like Gillespie’s do more than create jobs; they spark a chain reaction of economic activity. Research shows that every dollar spent in manufacturing generates up to $2.69 in additional economic output, as local suppliers, restaurants, and service providers benefit from increased demand. In rural areas like Randolph County, these plants can be lifelines, anchoring employment and boosting tax revenues for schools and infrastructure.

However, the benefits come with caveats. Economic studies warn that large incentives, like the $120,000 grant from the One North Carolina Fund supporting Gillespie’s project, can strain public budgets if not carefully managed. Critics argue that such subsidies sometimes reward companies for decisions they would have made anyway, diverting funds from education or healthcare. Supporters, including state officials, counter that these grants are performance-based, requiring companies to meet job creation and investment targets before receiving funds.

The Gillespie project underscores the power of collaboration between state and local entities. Partners like the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Randolph County Economic Development Corporation, and the state’s community college system worked together to seal the deal. These partnerships are increasingly vital as states compete for high-value projects in manufacturing and technology, fueled by federal investments like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Yet, challenges loom. Political tensions and state preemption of local authority can hinder cooperation, as seen in other states where local governments struggle to align with state priorities. In North Carolina, bipartisan support from figures like Representative Neal Jackson and Senator David Craven, Jr., has kept the focus on shared goals, ensuring projects like Gillespie’s move forward smoothly.

Precast concrete, the backbone of Gillespie’s business, is riding a wave of global growth, with the market projected to hit $150.2 billion in 2025. Its appeal lies in efficiency: precast components speed up construction, cut labor costs, and withstand the test of time. Innovations like 3D printing and IoT-enabled sensors are pushing the industry forward, making it a key player in sustainable infrastructure.

Historically, precast concrete has shaped cities since ancient Rome, but its modern resurgence began in the 20th century. Today, as governments pour billions into infrastructure, companies like Gillespie are well-positioned to meet rising demand. For Asheboro, this means not just jobs but a chance to contribute to a sector reshaping how we build.

To sustain this growth, North Carolina is doubling down on workforce development. The state’s community colleges and programs like the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act are training workers in advanced manufacturing skills, from robotics to quality control. These efforts are critical, as manufacturers nationwide face a skills gap, with up to 3.8 million new workers needed by 2033.

For Randolph County, partnerships with educational institutions will ensure that local residents can access these well-paying jobs. Apprenticeships and work-study programs are gaining traction, offering hands-on experience and a path to long-term careers. However, the pressure is on to make these opportunities inclusive, reaching underrepresented groups and addressing barriers like childcare and transportation.

As Gillespie Precast breaks ground in Asheboro, the community stands at a crossroads. The plant’s arrival promises economic vitality, but its long-term success hinges on sustained investment in workers, infrastructure, and local businesses. For residents, the higher wages and new opportunities could reshape lives, offering a chance to build wealth and stability.

Still, questions linger about the broader impact of such projects. Will the benefits reach all corners of Randolph County? Can North Carolina balance economic growth with fiscal responsibility? As the state navigates these challenges, Asheboro’s story serves as a reminder that progress, while promising, demands careful stewardship to truly take root.