RALEIGH, N.C. – The NC Chamber launched its 2026 Manufacturing Tour with a visit to the Reynolds Operations Center, Reynolds American’s facility in Tobaccoville, North Carolina, giving business leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders a firsthand look at advanced manufacturing operations in the state.

“Manufacturing is a cornerstone of North Carolina’s economy, and it is critical that we continue to elevate the visibility of this industry and the opportunities it creates,” said NC Chamber President and CEO Gary Salamido. “Reynolds American’s long-term investment in people and operations drive opportunity for workers, communities, and businesses across North Carolina.”

Reynolds American has committed to investing more than $3.2 billion in U.S. manufacturing and innovation through 2030, creating more than 2,000 direct and indirect jobs across its operations and supply network. The company is the top purchaser of U.S. tobacco leaf from American farmers, with North Carolina—the nation’s leading tobacco-producing state—anchoring the broader agricultural and manufacturing network it supports.

Attendees toured key manufacturing operations at the Reynolds Operations Center, as well as the WaterHub, the facility’s onsite water reclamation system that supports responsible resource management in manufacturing.

Following the 150th anniversary of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company in 2025, Reynolds American continues to expand its capabilities and strengthen its workforce in North Carolina.

“Our investments are rooted in North Carolina and focused on the long term,” said Borgia Walker, Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at Reynolds American Inc. “This state has been central to our story for generations, and we’re committed to growing our workforce while strengthening our partnerships with farmers, universities, and community organizations.”

The visit underscored the breadth of careers supported by modern manufacturing and the importance of building a strong pipeline of talent to support continued growth.

Reynolds American is investing in that pipeline through partnerships like its collaboration with Forsyth Technical Community College to launch the Future-Ready Workforce Alliance, which provides targeted training programs designed to build career readiness, upskill workers, and align talent development with the needs of modern industry.

The NC Chamber’s Manufacturing Tour aims to elevate the visibility of manufacturing across North Carolina, highlight its economic impact, and connect business, education, and community leaders with the opportunities across the industry. Additional tour stops will take place across the state throughout 2026.