Source:  Tom Johnston, MEATINGPLACE.COM, 10/21/10

Tyson Foods Inc. said ongoing upgrades to its Wilkesboro, N.C., poultry complex will improve efficiency in fresh poultry operations and add 165 jobs.

Bob Johnson, complex manager, said in a news release that two projects totaling $20 million involve a new chicken deboning system with new jobs, equipment and construction, and modifications to the plant’s cut-up area to streamline production and reduce labor needs.

The increase in jobs will push total employment at the complex to more than 2,500 people. Most of the deboning jobs have been filled, but Johnson said he’s still taking applications.

“We’re excited about these projects and what they mean for the future of our Wilkesboro operations,” Johnson said.  “We’re also pleased they will result in a net increase in the number of jobs we provide in the community.”

Johnson noted that the projects will not increase the total volume of product produced at the plant.

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