VCI-SC Inc. announces it will establish a new metal parts manufacturing and design facility in Pickens County, SC. The $2 million investment is expected to create 50 jobs.

Based in Sturgis, MI, this full-service manufacturing company specializes in material handling solutions and performs contract manufacturing. In addition to being a supplier for BMW and other automotive OEM's, the company does metal work for the aerospace, energy, industrial and military sectors.

The new facility (a revamped existing building) will allow VCI to manufacture products in much closer proximity to its customers, and to expand its market share in the Southeast, said President Gene Harrison. He praised South Carolina's "positive business environment and exceptional market access."

"Manufacturing remains a critical part of our state's economy, especially in the automotive-related sector," said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt. "We look forward to VCI-SC starting operations in the Palmetto State."

The company said it will start hiring workers in late June for jobs with skills in design, welding, machine set-up, machine programming, fixture building and general labor.