Lincolnton, NC – “We like calling Lincoln County our new business home,” says Ronnie Campbell, Vice President of Campbell and Sons Machining. Brothers Ronnie and Steve Campbell are already expanding their Lincolnton machine shop from 3,200 to 4,800 square feet after relocating from Mecklenburg County in October of 2006.
Campbell and Sons Machining is a metal parts manufacturer. The new location helps the shop respond quickly to customers while working to expand their customer base. “Becoming part of organizations like Lincoln County’s Industrial Managers Association (IMA) will help us network with industry leaders and demonstrate what we have to offer,” Ronnie says. Campbell and Sons specializes in manufacturing component parts supplied to other companies.
“We’re thrilled to be in Lincoln County,” Steve and Ronnie agree, smiling. “The business atmosphere here is welcoming,” they add, “and everybody, including the City of Lincolnton, Lincoln Economic Development Association and fellow industries have been so supportive.” Ronnie is quick to mention that he’s lived in Lincoln County the last 14 years and enjoys having a one mile commute.
Retired from Duke Energy, Ronnie oversees finances while Steve manages the machine shop’s daily operations. The brothers agree that their Lincolnton location is a prime ingredient for the growing success of their business since it enables them to be closer to customers.
Most of the employees working at the machine shop are working what Ronnie calls an “apprenticeship program,” learning from more experienced machine shop workers with many years on the job. “I don’t expect our younger employees to stay with us for the long haul,” says Ronnie. “Once they have acquired a higher skill level, they can typically move on to a larger company,” he adds. “In that sense, we’re providing a community service.”
The machine shop employs individuals from community college trade programs as well as skilled machinists who just enjoy the craft. According to Ronnie, some of the shop’s employees are retired craftsmen who enjoy the work enough to return after other careers.
Over the next five years, Campbell and Sons Machining plans to expand the facility again and upgrade machinery. Ronnie and Steve believe keeping Lincoln County an industry-friendly community is key to keeping existing industry in the area.
Charity Pitman is the New and Existing Business Director for the Lincoln Economic Development Association.
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