Governor Nikki Haley and state officials joined hundreds of Boeing workers in North Charleston Friday to cut the ribbon opening the company's 787 jetliner assembly plant.

Haley called Boeing a great American company said its workers make all South Carolinians proud.

The $750 million plant represents the largest single industrial investment in South Carolina history.

Grand Strand economic development officials say Horry County has a good chance to land some Boeing suppliers. That's due in part to a new industrial park.

The International Technology and Aerospace Park is scheduled to open later this year and officials say it has the potential to attract up to 2,000 jobs.

The park is one of only a few in the country that is next to a major airport runway.

But just as important for attracting suppliers, officials say Myrtle Beach is only a couple of hours drive away down U.S. 17 from the new Boeing plant.

"Highway 17 is a very good road," said Myrtle Beach International Airport director Michael LaPier. "It's used on a very regular basis by delivery trucks, by large vehicles, it's well traveled, it's an established route, and it goes right to the airport."

LaPier said this is one instance where the lack of an interstate highway connection doesn't hurt Myrtle Beach.

"I think long range we certainly need I-73, we need that interstate access. But in this particular case, because of the location of Boeing in Charleston, I think we're in good shape."

The vice chairman of the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation said he's optimistic about the Grand Strand's chances of attracting one or more Boeing suppliers.

"It's a process, not an event, but with our new leadership at EDC as well as at state commerce, I wouldn't be surprised if we don't land something within the next 12 to 18 months," said Billy Alford.

Alford said the Myrtle Beach area has selling points it can use to attract Boeing vendors.

"We have good working people here, we have a unique retirement community, and I just think that we have a quality of life that will be beneficial to Boeing and any suppliers."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.