North Carolina proudly serves as a home to multiple military installations and defense companies. The defense industry relies on collaboration and research with the Department of Defense and NC’s excellent university system to create and produce the strongest systems and technology.
Industry Support
Defense industry research receives significant investment in North Carolina. NC’s public university system includes nine universities that have research and development programs specifically dedicated to defense projects.
In addition to the research and development done at the universities in the State, there are other industries with technology and resources that can support the defense industry. Information technology, automotive, aerospace, and metallurgy facilities are found across NC.
Military Presence
North Carolina is home to Active Duty military installations, Department of Defense Reserve units, and Reserve National Guard components. NC has the third-largest military population in the nation, and Defense is the second-largest economic sector in the State.
This significant military presence yields a skilled labor pipeline for the defense industry. With 18,000-20,000 military personnel in the State projected to transition to the civilian workforce each year, businesses have the opportunity to benefit from their in-demand occupational skills.
Veteran Workforce
With such a large number of military service members comes a robust and engaged veteran workforce. Close to 400,000 veterans call North Carolina home. Around one-quarter of that population holds at least a Bachelor’s degree, and today’s veterans are all technically skilled. Most have held a security clearance and are trained to safeguard sensitive information and materials. Their background is particularly suited for the defense industry.
Accessibility
Being centrally located on the eastern seaboard, and with interstate access to other major U.S. markets and population hubs - including Washington, D.C., North Carolina is consistently ranked as one of the top U.S. states for doing business. NC offers convenient access to international airports that provide easy access to global markets. North Carolina also has commercial airports across the State, two deepwater seaports, and a consolidated rail system to further enhance the state's supply chain advantages.