Steve Jobs once said, "Great things in business are never done by one person. They're done by a team of people." Highlighting the importance of collaboration and partnership, Jobs' quote certainly rings true for the economic development community across South Carolina. In my position, I'm often asked about the state's top attribute. How have we been so successful? To the surprise of some, my answer is quite simple; South Carolina's greatest attribute is its people and their ability to collaborate.
This week, our unique synergy was on full display, as Volvo Cars announced a significant expansion in Berkeley County. Two years ago, the company broke ground on a $500 million manufacturing plant -- its first in North America -- and announced plans to produce the all-new S60 sedan. On Monday, exactly two years removed from that landmark moment, Volvo Cars announced an additional product line for its South Carolina operations -- the company's flagship SUV, the XC90. Achieved with a $520 million investment, the expansion is expected to create more than 1,900 additional jobs and allow the Swedish auto maker to construct an office facility on site.
Undoubtedly, a project of this magnitude could only be achieved with cooperation and hard work from the many members of Team South Carolina. From important allies, such as Berkeley County, the S.C. Ports Authority, the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, the State Historic Preservation Office and Santee Cooper, to regulatory entities, such as the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, each partner has played a vital role. Also critical to this project was the S.C. Technical College System, which continues to utilize its readySC™ program to provide customized workforce training for new and expanding businesses across the state.
So, as you can see, Jobs' quote is perfectly relevant for Team South Carolina. By collaborating and working together, we've been able to achieve some pretty remarkable things. And, moving forward, our continued collaboration will allow us to support the state's existing industries, ensuring prosperity across South Carolina for many years to come.