OpTek Systems Inc. Announces Expansion in Greenville County

June 27, 2010

Investment expected to create up to 20 new jobs

GREENVILLE COUNTY, SC – June 22, 2010 – The South Carolina Department of Commerce and the Greenville Area Development Corporation today announced that OpTek Systems Inc. will expand its fiber optic device and laser manufacturing facility in Greenville County. The new investment is expected to generate up to 20 new jobs over the next several years.

“This expansion is an important step in OpTek System’s growth, and we are pleased to increase our presence in the South Carolina Upstate. Greenville has provided our company with an excellent business environment and skilled workforce. We have grown quickly over the last few years and expect to continue expanding our operations in the future. We appreciate all the support we have received from state and local officials,” said Duane Dinkel, President of OpTek Systems.

OpTek Systems will be expanding their operations, located at 12 Pilgrim Road, by facility up-fitting, increased clean room space, equipment upgrades and the in-house fabrication of additional laser systems. The expansion is expected to be completed in phases over the next several years.

“OpTek Systems is an excellent example of the type of a high-tech business that increases South Carolina’s reputation as a leader in cutting-edge industries. The company’s decision to expand in Greenville is another indication that our business climate and skilled workforce offer the strong fundamentals companies need to prosper. We appreciate OpTek Systems’ decision to continue to do business in South Carolina and look forward to their continued growth in the days ahead,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce.

“Today’s announcement is another piece of welcome news, and an important sign that our efforts to strengthen business growth and job creation in Greenville County are paying off,” noted H.G. “Butch” Kirven Jr., board member for the Greenville Area Development Corporation and chairman of Greenville County Council.  “This news is also significant in that OpTek Systems’ growth and production of high-performance materials will support a variety of industries including defense, medical, telecommunications and advanced materials.  Their decision will serve as a magnet for additional talented individuals, affirms that innovation and specialty manufacturing is alive and well here, and will add good paying jobs in our community.”

The company has initiated the hiring process and will be accepting applications throughout the year. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should forward resumes to [email protected].

OpTek Systems

OpTek Systems was founded in 2006 and is a high-tech manufacturer of fiber optic devices and laser systems. The company serves a number of markets including defense, medical and telecommunications segments. The company also produces components used in cell phones, oil and gas sensors and other precision applications, including critical devices for the Large Hadron Collider (CERN). The company also has offices in Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit www.opteksystems.com.

The Greenville Area Development Corporation

The Greenville Area Development Corporation is a non-profit organization established by Greenville County Council to promote and enhance the economic growth and development of Greenville County.  For additional information, visit them on the web at www.GoGADC.com or call (864) 235-2008.

About S.C. Department of Commerce

The S.C. Department of Commerce works closely with economic development professionals throughout the state to recruit new jobs and investments and help existing businesses grow. Commerce has been recognized for its success in the areas of job creation and economic impact by Area Development and Business Facilities magazines. The S.C. Department of Commerce was one of 10 state economic development organizations to receive Area Development’s Silver Shovel Award in 2009 and Commerce received the 2009 Deal of the Year award from Business Facilities magazine. Commerce received the top prize for Boeing’s selection of North Charleston for the company’s second final assembly plant for the 787 Dreamliner program.  In addition to job and investment recruitment, the agency provides a range of business support services, offers grants for community development and infrastructure improvements, and provides tools to enhance workforce skills. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.