Contributed photo Pictured, from left to right, are: Service Thread President and Chief Executive Officer Chip Butler, Service Thread Chief Operating Officer Jay Todd, RCC President Dale McInnis, Service Thread Technical Research and Development Vice President Les Bathie, RCC Vice President for Workforce and Economic Development Steve Smith, and RCC Customized Training Director Lee Eller.

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When Service Thread in Laurinburg decided to expand its product line, they looked to Richmond Community College for assistance in specialized training for its employees.

RCC’s Customized Training Program just signed a new agreement with the industry to provide $40,000 in training, which will be funded through the North Carolina Community College System Customized Training Program.

“I am very proud the funds from Raleigh are being used for an expanding Laurinburg industry,” said RCC President Dale McInnis. “There are good things happening in Scotland County, and I’m glad RCC is a part of it. Our partnership with Service Thread is a template we are using to help other companies.”

The company is adding six new production units from Italy. RCC will provide the skilled training that employees need, to learn how to operate and maintain the equipment. In addition to training for the new equipment, 80 employees will receive general safety training. Others will learn electrical, mechanical, and welding skills. Twelve employees will take supervisory skills training.

“We believe in investing in employees, processes, and products,” said Jay Todd, chief operating officer. “This continuous improvement concept has allowed us to grow and serve new clients.”

The new technology allows the industry to produce a cable-twisted yarn much quicker and in greater quantities than in the past. In today’s global market, being able to meet a customer’s needs better than a competitor is how you gain market share.

“We make industrial sewing thread other companies use to make products. The training and programs we have developed with RCC are very important because of the technical processes we use to make yarns for specific applications. Our customers operate in smaller niche markets that require a high level of quality. It is very important our employees understand the complex steps required to consistently supply our customers a high quality product,” said Todd.

The telecommunications industry uses products from Service Thread. Other companies using their products include those manufacturing tarps that cover dump trucks, slings that lift boats and equipment, and closures for bags. New positions are available because of the expansion. Anyone interested in applying can contact the Employment Security Commission in Laurinburg.