COLUMBIA, S.C. - Pella Corp. expects to employ about 450 people to make ThermaStar windows and patio doors at a plant near the Columbia Metropolitan Airport.

Mark Hinkie, president and chief operating officer of Pella's vinyl window and door division, said Wednesday that the company chose the Columbia area because of its work force and the state's industrial training program through its technical schools.

"When you can bring a company like Pella to town with this kind of job creation it's a significant boost to your state's economy," Gov. Mark Sanford said.

The company is frequently named by Fortune magazine as one of the 100 best companies to work for.

"With their dedication to employees and to product excellence, Pella Corporation is a welcome addition to the advanced manufacturing base in Lexington County," County Councilman Johnny Jeffcoat said.