COLUMBIA, S.C. – Optimized Armor, Inc., an industry-leading armor steel supplier, today announced plans to establish operations in York County. The more than $3.7 million investment is expected to create 100 new jobs.

Founded in 2019, Optimized Armor, Inc. provides armored steel to a variety of industries, including defense and security, off-highway equipment manufacturers and transportation vehicle manufacturers. The company is recognized as a leader in the U.S. market for complex bending of specialized, ultra-high-hard armored steel.   

Located at 467 Lakeshore Parkway in Rock Hill, Optimized Armor, Inc.’s York County operations will specialize in high-quality components and fabrications manufactured from high-grade materials. The company’s investments in the latest generation of large-scale laser cutting machines and heavy-duty brake presses, coupled with highly-skilled welding engineers, has earned the company a reputation of being a valuable proposition supplier to leading blue chip original equipment manufacturers.  

Operations are expected to begin immediately to keep up with customer demand. Individuals interested in joining the Optimized Armor, Inc. team should visit the company's website.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development has awarded a $150,000 Set-Aside grant to York County to assist with costs related to the project.  

QUOTES

“Optimized Armor, Inc. is delighted to be opening our first U.S. operation in Rock Hill, South Carolina. We have experienced tremendous growth across the globe and look forward to continuing to serve our U.S.-based customers out of our new facility. The city of Rock Hill, York County and the South Carolina Department of Commerce are key partners in making this next level of growth a reality. The willingness to support Optimized Armor, Inc. helps ensure a bright future for those that will work with us here and the surrounding community. Optimized Armor, Inc. is looking forward to making Rock Hill, South Carolina our new U.S. home!” –Optimized Armor, Inc. Director Simon Hurst

“The 100 new jobs that Optimized Armor, Inc. is bringing to York County will change the lives of South Carolinians, and for that, we couldn’t be more grateful. We wish this company all the best on their new endeavors, and I look forward to watching them succeed for years to come.” –Gov. Henry McMaster

“It’s no secret that South Carolina has a reputation of being a key contributor to the manufacturing sector. We’re proud that companies like Optimized Armor, Inc. are recognizing this and are deciding to invest in our state.” –Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt

“Today’s announcement by Optimized Armor, Inc. is exciting, as they not only provide quality new jobs for our area, but also add to the impressive number of metal fabrication and engineering companies in York County. We are proud they chose to establish their new manufacturing operations here and we look forward to watching them grow and succeed” –York County Council Chairman Michael Johnson

“After such a banner year in 2019, this announcement of Optimized Armor Inc.’s investment in our future and creation of 100 jobs is a great kickoff to 2020! Not only is it a promising start for the year ahead, but an affirmation of the work accomplished to date. The people of Rock Hill look forward to welcoming Optimized Armor, and to the prospect of good, sustainable jobs in the defense and security industry available in the coming months.” –City of Rock Hill Mayor John Gettys