A global manufacturing leader of electrical railway couplings, era-contact USA is launching its North American manufacturing headquarters at Pickens County, South Carolina. The new development will bring $3.6 million in investment and lead to the creation of 45 new jobs.

Based in Germany, era-contact is the worldwide technology leader for automatic electrical couplings and hand plugs in the rail sector. Along with the transmission of power and control signals, era-contact is the only company to also provide Ethernet solutions between train cars.

The initial building will be approximately 38,000 square feet with the ability to expand up to 90,000 square feet. Construction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2017 and hiring will begin shortly afterward.

“As a medium-sized and family-owned company, we are very pleased and satisfied by the warm welcome and the strong support we get here in South Carolina, especially from Pickens County. We already feel right at home and are looking forward to becoming a strong and valuable member of the local and international business community.” said era-contact USA Managing Director Jochen Kurz.

As an incentive, the Coordinating Council for Economic Development has approved job development credits associated with this project.

“It’s always a great day in our state when we can welcome a company like era-contact USA to the South Carolina family. Their decision to create 45 new jobs in Pickens County is a huge win for the people of South Carolina and is a real reason to celebrate across the state,” said Governor Nikki Haley.

“When a world industry leader chooses to locate their new North American manufacturing headquarters in our community, Pickens County’s commitment to economic development is reaffirmed. era-contact USA could have located their new facility anywhere, but knew that Pickens County ‘s commitment to workforce development, community support and world-class technical education would set the company up for success for many years to come. Pickens County Council is delighted to welcome era-contact USA to our community and looks forward to watching their growth and success,” Pickens County Council Chairman Jennifer H. Willis said.