TODAY'S HEADLINES | MARCH 6, 2012

Midlands insurance IT sector has $6.7B impact

A majority of Columbia insurance technology and services firms reported they either anticipate sales growth over the next year or hiring to fill an estimated 1,200 open positions. A recent study revealed the sector is a growing industry and has a profound impact on the region.

Jones-Hamilton to open new plant in Chester County

The manufacturer and marketer of specialty chemicals plans to invest $29 million and create 15 new jobs. Construction on Jones-Hamilton’s new Chester County facility is scheduled to begin in 2013, and operations are expected to begin in 2014.

Panelists: Electric vehicles could lessen oil dependency

The development of electric vehicles and charging stations are vital to deal with U.S.’s dependency on oil and the potential of oil shortage in the future, but the electrical vehicle industry has many of its own challenges to overcome first, according to panelists at the 2012 International Electric Vehicle Conference 2012 in Greenville.

Army Corps asked to expand deepening study

The Coastal Conservation League has asked the Army Corps of Engineers Charleston District to study alternative deepening projects on the East Coast as well as alternative depths. The comments came during the public comment period for the corps’ feasibility study.

S.C. golf management companies merge

Burroughs and Chapin Co. and Myrtle Beach National Co. have combined ownership and management teams under a new company, National Golf Management. The new company now runs 23 of the 90 golf courses along a 60-mile stretch of the Grand Strand.

Job of the Week

NAI Avant is seeking a full-time sales assistant and receptionist at its downtown Columbia office. Responsibilities include answering phones and greeting customers, providing administrative support, assisting with mailings and maintaining company calendars. Candidates must be highly proficient in Microsoft Office Suites. A minimum of one year prior experience is preferred. Learn more or apply here.