State Secretary of Commerce discusses jobs, Vertex Rail layoffs

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — North Carolina’s Secretary of Commerce John Skvarla was in Wilmington Tuesday.

When asked about the future of jobs in the Cape Fear he said he is optimistic.

He talked with us about what’s happening with Vertex Rail in New Hanover County. Last month Vertex announced they were laying off workers while at same time expanding its production.

Skvarla said because vertex has to change the type of rail car they are producing they are focusing on re-balancing. But he said he hopes the company will continue to grow.

“They’re in a competitive market and I think they are going to do a great job in rising to competition so we’re very happy with that,” said Skvarla. “I think the original idea was for a lot more jobs in the future and I hope they’re successful doing that.”