Greater Charlotte Biz 2008.07

Radiator Specialty Company

•

Metro Greenscape

•

Troutman Chair Company

•

BizEd Directory

july 2008

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in this issue

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july 200 8

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cover story

CATS-Charlotte Area Transit System Half a year into his job, Keith Parker is presiding over huge hikes in ridership for all CATS’ bus commuter lines as well as rising LYNX ridership, and he knows why. The CEO of the Charlotte Area Transit System is listening to what people say they want in public transportation service. And he’s giving it to them.

8 Radiator Specialty Company

departments

Radiator Specialty Company develops and manufactures industrial, plumbing and automotive products. Chairman Alan Blumenthal heads up the company that got its start in 1924 as the result of a leaky radiator, and today is global with annual sales topping $100 million.

bizXperts Smart Salvos, Select Strategies and Succinct Solutions

14 bizlife Metro Greenscape Entrpreneurs Darin and Heather Brockelbank credit a good foundation of work ethic and strong principles in Metro Greenscape’s success in the outdoor living design and build industry. They are determined to be a force in the expanding outdoor living market.

14

bized Regional Business Education Offerings and Customized Work Force Training

26

biznetwork

37

Radiator Specialty Company

•

Metro Greenscape

•

Troutman Chair Company

•

BizEd Directory

july 2008

Keith Parker CEO Charlotte Area Transit System

When Champ and Jean Land bought Troutman Chairs, the furniture industry was in a serious downward spiral. But they have successfully “rocked” the company back to health; today, their chairs are perched on porches and terraces up and down the eastern seaboard.

Work Force Education Directory

bizlife Pursuing a Balance of Business and Life

on the cover:

18 Troutman Chair Company

6

Purr-fect Choice 2008 - 2009

Photography by Wayne Morris

Delivers

Fuel Savings and Clean Air

Keith Parker CEO Charlotte Area Transit System

2 0 0 8 - 2 0 09

26 Charlotte Regional Business Education Directory Regional business offerings, from traditional business education programs to customized work force training programs, designed for employers interested in education and training programs to raise employee performance levels as well as individuals interested in gaining knowledge or skills for better performance or versatility.

www. grea tercha rl ot tebiz .c om

STOP BEING AFRAID OF YOUR ENERGY BILLS. July 2008 Volume 9 • Issue 7 Publisher John Paul Galles jgalles@greatercharlottebiz.com

Associate Publisher/Editor Maryl A. Lane maryl.a.lane@greatercharlottebiz.com

Creative Director Trevor Adams tadams@greatercharlottebiz.com

Editorial & Sales Assistant Janet Kropinak jkropinak@greatercharlottebiz.com

Account Executive Joe Gleason jgleason@greatercharlottebiz.com

Contributing Writers Thom Callahan Ellison Clary Casey Jacobus Janet Kropinak Contributing Photographers Janet Kropinak Wayne Morris

Show your energy bills who’s boss.

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Linda MacConnachie Sunshine Station Customer for ten years

“What attracted me to First Citizens was the way they understood my business and shared my vision. When I was ready to expand, they went out of their way to help me secure the financing I needed to open a second location. My success is their success—that’s why I bank with First Citizens.”

We value relationships.

Member FDIC

[bizXperts] Smart Salvos, Select Strategies and Succinct Solutions

CSI for the business owner Joe Fitnessbuff owns a chain of gymnasiums with

The employer should next investigate the facts

many employees. One of those employees, Brad Bodybuilder,

quickly and reasonably. Generally, investigations of seri-

came to Joe’s office today asking for a private conference. Joe is busy, but

ous employee misconduct, such as sexual harassment,

agrees to a short meeting because Brad looks troubled.

should be handled by professionals trained in the

Brad describes to Joe how Theresa Trainer has recently been telling him

requirements of the applicable laws. It can be very easy

dirty jokes, making suggestive comments, calling his cell phone, and even

for an improperly trained investigator to make the situa-

touching him inappropriately. Brad says he’s told Theresa to back off, but it

tion worse. The investigator should also be an objective

hasn’t worked. Brad then tells Joe that he doesn’t want Joe to do anything

party and, ideally, not the immediate supervisor of the

about Theresa. He doesn’t want to get her in trouble. Brad just wants Joe to

complaining party or the alleged bad actor.

know what’s been happening.

After the meeting, Joe calls Brad’s immediate manager to discuss the sit-

This investigator should be given the ability to privately interview parties involved and witnesses, if needed. During these interviews, the inves-

uation. Brad’s manager says that he has had some complaints recently

tigator should obtain as much detail as reasonably possible.

regarding Brad’s performance. The manager tells Joe that Brad misses

“Who, what, when, where and how” questions should all

appointments with clients, has been rude to people and has had poor per-

be covered. The parties should be given an oppor-

formance lately. The manager claims to have discussed these issues with

tunity to explain their side of the story

Brad just last week and informed him that the manager was close to termi-

with the investigator being as non-

nating his employment. However, the manager has not written any of this

judgmental as possible.

information down for Brad’s file.

The manager also admits that the employees sometimes tell jokes that

Eric Bass

Once the facts are gathered, management

are “a little inappropriate.” In fact, he says that he has seen Brad tell some

must review the situ-

of these jokes. He has also noticed some “flirty banter” between Joe and

ation and attempt

Theresa, but little else. Joe’s manager is suspicious of Brad’s motives.

to reach a propor-

Joe is perplexed. He doesn’t want his employees to be harassed by any-

tionate and rea-

one. Plus, a successful claim for sexual harassment could have a severe

sonable decision.

impact on his business. However, Joe has many questions about this situa-

Business owners

tion and doesn’t know where to start. Is Brad’s poor performance a result of

that aren’t dealing

Theresa’s alleged harassment? Is Brad just using Theresa to try to keep from

with employment

being terminated for his poor performance? Should he let the issue go and

law issues on a reg-

do nothing? Should he terminate Brad and/or Theresa? Should he go

ular basis will likely

against Brad’s wishes and investigate the issue? Joe also just wants to get on

need help at this point as

with running his business. These situations make him very uncomfortable.

well. The decision should be communicated in a careful man-

Does this scenario sound familiar?

ner to the parties involved. Lastly, any disciplinary action should

Investigations of possible employee misconduct, whether harassment,

be documented properly in writing.

discrimination, theft or other misconduct, are difficult for all businesses.

In Joe’s case, he has work to do. He should contact his attorney or

Joe is required to reasonably investigate Brad’s allegation of harassment,

human resources professional to start an investigation. If needed, he

even though Brad asked him not to pursue it. The question is not whether

should revise his conduct policies and obtain additional training for his

to investigate, but how.

staff. He should also remind his managers to properly document miscon-

The first step in addressing employee misconduct is to be sure that the

duct such as Brad’s recent behavior, whether through written notes, docu-

employer has written policies covering standards of conduct, anti-discrim-

mentation of verbal warnings or written warnings signed by the employee

ination and anti-harassment. Such policies can help prevent misconduct

(depending on the severity of the misconduct).

and provide a method to deal with it. The policies should provide a process

Hopefully, you will rarely have to deal with such issues, but chances are

for employees to report misconduct and reassurance to employees that the

that you eventually will. Make sure you are prepared and that you obtain

employer will not retaliate against someone for truthfully making a com-

professional advice in conducting your own “CSI.”

plaint. Further, the management level employees (at a minimum) should be

Eric Bass is an employment lawyer with Wishart, Norris, Henninger &

trained in acceptable behavior, dealing with complaints and misconduct

Pittman, P.A., a law firm focused on serving the needs of business and busi-

and recording misconduct.

ness owners. Contact him at 704-364-0010 or visit www.wnhplaw.com.

6

july 200 8

www. grea tercha rl ot tebiz .c om

Smart Salvos, Select Strategies and Succinct Solutions

[bizXperts]

discounting is dangerous Offering a discount in the heat of negotiations may seem like a good idea at the time but thoughtless discounting is an easy way to lose money fast. Take a moment to consider these 10 problems associated with discounting.

1. Discounting eats away profit margins!

2. Negotiating a discount focuses the customer’s attention on your price.

The focus should be on the benefits of the product to the customer.

3. Discounting can affect the customer’s perception of the value of your product—the ‘you get what you pay for’ syndrome.

4. Discounting may affect the quality of your service. If you have offered a discount and realize your profit margin is going to be slim if you do the job to your usual standard, then there’s the temptation to cut corners. Poor work gets talked about and you risk your reputation.

5. Discounting can result in reduced demand. Customers might see the opportunity to buy at a discount as an opportunity to really stock up on the item and decrease their need to buy for some time into the future.

6. Discounting increases work hours. To maintain your profit level you are going to need to put in extra hours to compensate for the narrower margins on your sales.

7. Customers can gouge you. Word of discount deals gets spread around and if you did it for one customer what is your justification for refusing it to the next one?

8. Discounting can be addictive. To make a sale it’s easy to fall into the habit of offering a discount as a first resort instead of as the last.

9. Guessing wrong. Discounts need to be based on an itemized costing of the job and include a buffer for any extras incurred should things not go as smoothly as expected.

Debbie Daniel 10. Discounting starts price wars. The company that usually wins is the one with the deepest pockets.

While there are valid business reasons to discount, such as liquidating obsolete or seasonal stock or meeting cash flow requirements, if you want to follow best practice then develop and follow a price policy that includes your discount deals and the exact amounts to be offered in each circumstance. Base it on an understanding of the real costs of production and your profit margins.

If you employ salespeople, make sure they know about it and stick to it as well.

All rights to the content in this publication are reserved by RAN ONE Inc. Any use of the content outside of this format must acknowledge RAN ONE Inc. as the original source.

Deborah Daniel, C.P.A., is a principal with Daniel, Ratliff & Company, a full service accounting and business development firm. Contact her at 704-3715000 or visit www.danielratliff.com.

24 Years In Business

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

j uly 2008

7

A

t his Midtown office in The Watermark, Alan Blumenthal offers a hearty handshake and amiable smile.

Lining a conference room are family portraits dating back to the 19th century. They’re part of a lineage that pays tribute to the founding and continued success of his family-owned Radiator Specialty Company, established 84 years ago by I.D. Blumenthal.

Alan Blumenthal, Radiator Specialty’s chairman, and his two brothers, Philip and Samuel, own the company.

Blumenthal recollects that I.D., born Isadore Richard but preferred to be called I.D. or Uncle Dick, had a “deep, stentorian voice, dominant personality, and was very old school, philanthropic, strong-willed and entrepreneurial.”

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july 200 8

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by thom callahan

[bizprofile]

K N GU

happens

Radiator Specialty Oozes Success That quick sketch

Pouring Solder Seal powder into the radia-

Alan Blumenthal took over the reins from

likely held sway

tor, Ray sealed the leak. I.D. was impressed.

his father Herman to become president and

when the 30-

Upon hearing of Ray’s inability to market the

CEO for 22 years in 1978, the year I.D

year-old I.D.

powder, which Ray is said to have devel-

passed away.

went from a

oped, I.D. was convinced he could do so and

traveling

a partnership was formed that year.

Solder Seal was Radiator Specialty’s first

salesman to forge what would become a

product and soon the start-up was thriving.

“I increasingly brought in folks because I wanted to modernize,” Blumenthal recalls.

“I wanted new blood in terms of executive managers who would help reorient the company and improve it in all aspects.”

prosperous corporation whose reach extends

“My Uncle Dick essentially ran the com-

to distant places including South America,

pany from 1924 to 1937,” Blumenthal says.

Then a major change took place after 76

China and the Middle East, bringing in sales

“And my dad, Herman, joined the company

years...“Our family thought it was time to

of more than $100 million annually.

in 1937.”

bring in a leader from the outside and transition to a professionally-managed company,”

Instilled with a strong sense of philan-

Herman was the youngest of Samuel and

thropy by his parents, I.D. used his innate

Fanny Blumenthal’s six children and I.D. the

drive to form the Blumenthal Foundation,

oldest, with 21 years between the two sons.

So, in 2000, John Huber was hired on as

from which the Charlotte region and beyond

“My uncle and dad had similar values but

Radiator Specialty’s new president and

have prospered and which continues to

different personalities,” Blumenthal recalls.

CEO. “A real experiment that has worked

operate today.

“And before long, my uncle developed a lot

out very well,” Blumenthal adds. Alan Blu-

of confidence in my dad and eventually

menthal became chairman of the board and

turned the company over to him.”

responsible for the company’s future

Turning Powder into Profit

Blumenthal says.

strategic direction initiatives.

After serving in World War I, I.D.

For companies to remain viable, change

returned home to Savannah, Ga., to work at

typically must happen, but it’s not always

his father’s five-and-dime. Five years later he

embraced so easily. Company culture can

decided to use his talents to make his own

become staid with a family-owned business

While Radiator Specialty was founded

mark as a traveling salesman.

such as Radiator Specialty, where “some-

upon the success of one product, Solder

Courting the Customer

As the story goes, passing through Char-

times attitudes get too entrenched and you

Seal, the product inventory is now in excess

lotte in 1924, I.D. had a leaky radiator,

don’t have enough new blood,” Blumenthal

of 2,000 active part numbers. Blumenthal

prompting him to visit a tinsmith, G.G. Ray.

concedes.

clarifies, “Each package is a product, so if

pursuing a bala nc e of busi ness and life

july 2008

➤ 9

you have the same product in four different

is you have a lot of products to sell; the bad

The Solder Seal circle, Radiator Specialty’s

sizes, that’s four different SKUs, part numbers.”

news is you have essentially too many products

logo, has dual billing with GUNK, after the

to sell,” Blumenthal quips.

acquisition of GUNK Laboratories, famous for

Radiator Specialty offers a myriad of auto-

its Engine Brite Spray Engine Degreaser.

motive, plumbing and industrial items which

Very familiar amongst Radiator Specialty’s

are its core, and other inventory including

products are Liquid Wrench and Puncture Seal,

And GUNK means? Story has it the devel-

Smith & Wesson brand firearms care products.

used in loosening stubborn, rusty fasteners or

oper of GUNK was a motorcycle enthusiast who

repairing flat tires.

was asked by a fellow rider to “give me some of

“The good news about a specialty company

that gunk to grease my bike.”

Blumenthal offers, “From the few accounts

You know you have a drinking problem.

Maybe it’s really bad…Maybe you haven’t ruined your family and job – yet!

Could be 28 days in a treatment center didn’t work or you’re wondering “How can I take a month off work and spend $30,000?”

So you don’t do anything …… until

There is a solution: LAST CALL

we can piece together, it would have been similar to that.”

Many Radiator Specialty products cross over into other markets, says Blumenthal, adding, “Our radiator repair powder also repairs boilers, and through that discovery we got into the plumbing market.”

Because of the number of products Radiator Specialty makes and their multi-use nature, the company has included an ‘Ask Dr. Gunk’ tab on its Web site to find the appropriate products for particular uses.

“We encourage customers to give us feed-

Only 2 missed work days

No meetings.

No name tags.

No group hugs.

No sharing.

back about our performance and products and their needs,” Blumenthal says.

One of the more subtle and challenging aspects of product development is the fact that a product that’s practical in Kalispell, Mont., may not be practical in Orlando, Fla. “So you have to do some sifting,” he says.

“You must consider, ‘Will it be profitable, meet the needs of diverse customers or just one type of customer?’”

The company strategy is to “delight customers everyday,” to which a chuckling Blumenthal

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responds, “A lot easier to say than it is to do.”

“Radiator Specialty’s motto is to help make things work better. That’s what we think customers care about the most. Yes, we focus on pricing. But also, ‘Will the product be doing the job it’s supposed to do? Will the consumer have to worry about product quality or whether it sprays out of the can if it’s an aerosol product?’”

Competitive Challenges

Drinking Problem Solved.

THISISTHELASTCALL.COM Last Call – Located in 12 cities to serve you 10

july 2008

In 1931, Radiator Specialty Company Canada was established. The ambitious I.D. might be amazed that his company now has accounts in places such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Israel, China, Brazil and Argentina.

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WE THINK OUTSIDE THE FISHBOWL...

SHOULDN’T YOU? The global economy heightens competition and offers the usual challenges such as language

AUDIT & ATTEST SERVICES

barriers and foreign regulations, but Blumen-

ACCOUNTING SERVICES

thal weighs in on what he thinks is an incongruous supplier-to-customer ratio.

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Accountants First, Advisors Foremost

Our radiator repair powder also repairs boilers, and through that discovery we got into the plumbing market.” ~ Alan Blumenthal Chairman Radiator Specialty Company

“Without trying to sound paranoid, there are more competitors but fewer customers than it is healthy for there to be. There’s a wave of acquisitions, mergers and consolidations, where the big get bigger and the smaller often go away.”

Competition is across the board for Radiator Specialty’s entire product line, Blumenthal adds, “But more so in automotive, which is the No. 1 marketplace we’ve been in all 84 years.”

Because of the increased competition, the availability of specialized products has become more commonplace, fueling even lower prices.

Customers can only go to so many places for certain

products,”

Blumenthal

explains.

“Certain products over time have become a

EVERYTHING CHANGES. EVERYTHING REMAINS THE SAME.

Charlotte Copy Data is now Sharp Business Systems. But the name is pretty much the only thing that’s changed. You’re still dealing with the same great local people. Still getting the same great training. Same great network design and upgrades. Same certified technicians that can be at your office in four hours or less.

Same network of offices throughout the Carolinas.

4404-A Stuart Andrew Boulevard And great state-of-the-art Sharp equipment that can 704.523.3333/Fax 704.525.1506 help your office run more efficiently. So whatever your www.carolinas.sharp-sbs.com needs, we’re here for you, just as we’ve always been. WHERE THE ACCENT IS STILL ON QUALITY

commodity, not because they were positioned

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

j uly 2008

11

as such but because of the continuous drive

costs. And that was true long before the current

toward the lowest possible price.”

oil price escalation.”

acknowledges Blumenthal.

One might think Radiator Specialty has

However, that lower pricing strategy for spe-

Another challenge Radiator Specialty faces is

global personnel. Not so with modern technol-

cialized products is not an arena in which Radi-

labeling. Blumenthal produces an aerosol can,

ogy that somewhat negates the need for face-to-

ator Specialty always plays.

its label bilingual in English and Spanish.

face communication.

“We have steadfastly remained, depending

Though the company has a presence in many

on which product line we’re talking about,

foreign countries, its European market has been a

somewhere between a moderate to a high

tough sell because of its multilingual population.

priced company in terms of our selling price,”

“We’re a company that pays close attention

says Blumenthal. “Our ambition is to make a

to federal labeling regulations, and they dic-

higher profit, and part of the trade-off of having

tate that it takes a certain amount of space,

higher quality products is you often have higher

and it becomes very problematic [to read],”

THE EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION Trusted HR Advice, Tools & Training

Human Resources Compliance Surveys Training Employee Benefits

“Radiator Specialty’s motto is to help make things work better. That’s what we think customers care about the most. Yes, we focus on pricing. But also, ‘Will the product be doing the job it’s supposed to do? Will the consumer have to worry about product quality or whether it sprays out of the can if it’s an aerosol product?’” ~ Alan Blumenthal Chairman Radiator Specialty Company

One HG-based Sales Division Sales Manager travels the world, and there’s a sales representative in China. The global market may be limitless, but Radiator Specialty moves cautiously.

“Typically, we sell to between one to two distributors in a country,” Blumenthal says.

“Not everyone is creditworthy or has a good reputation in the way they operate.”

Family Benevolence For most of its 84 years, Radiator Specialty

The Employers Association is a membership based organization that provides human resources solutions to employers. We serve over 850 member companies in the Charlotte and surrounding areas in a variety of sizes and industries.

has had operations in both Charlotte and Union County’s Indian Trail. That changed in December 2007, when the company combined its entire work force and brought it to Indian Trail.

Several additions to the plant since 1972 have grown the facility to nearly 400,000 total square feet on 160 acres.

The old Wilkinson Boulevard location is

Celebrating 50 years of partnership with employers!

being developed by Merrifield Partners as Bryant

Park,

a

mixed-use,

commercial

office/retail/residential development, 30-plus acre site that will include the Charlotte School of Law, slated to open in August.

Along with Alan Blumenthal’s office, the Midtown location houses the offices of the fam-

12

Annual memberships ranging from $475 to $3,100

ily’s five real estate entities, the Blumenthal

For more information about membership, call 704-522-8011 or visit www.employersassoc.com

Foundation and WildAcres Retreat, both of which

july 200 8

are overseen by Philip Blumenthal, whom Alan calls the “the family point person” for the

www. grea tercha rl ot tebiz .c om

the Carolinas, and Stacy,

Blumenthal Foundation.

who has worked for sev-

Wildacres Retreat was

eral non-profits but is now

founded by I.D. and his wife Madolyn Blumenthal in 1936 in the Blue

early age. It’s one of the reasons my Uncle Dick

a stay-at-home mom to the Blumenthal’s first

Ridge Mountains for “the betterment of human

turned over the business to my dad so he could

grandchild, Danielle.

relations and interfaith dialogue.”

spend more time being a philanthropist.”

These days it may be hard to know if the

Samuel Blumenthal, the youngest of Her-

The sense of familial achievement depicted

Blumenthal family’s philanthropy is a result of

man and Anita Blumenthal’s three sons, is a

in the conference room portraiture is comple-

their success or their success is a result of their

clinical psychologist who keeps a corporate

mented by more recent triumphs, framed pho-

philanthropy. By all standards, both their prod-

office at the Indian Trail location.

tographs that abound in Blumenthal’s office.

ucts and their family moniker are household

Blumenthal philanthropy is extensive and

Blumenthal and his wife Rosalie have two

includes the Blumenthal Performing Arts Cen-

daughters; Jill, who works for The Foundation of

names; Radiator Specialty is oozing success. biz

Thom Callahan is a Charlotte-based freelance writer.

ter, the Blumenthal Cancer Center at Carolinas Medical Center, and Shalom Park.

SU CCES S NEEDS A PARTNER

Loosely translated, the Hebrew term ‘Tzedakah’ means to give aid to those in need as an obligation, a performance of a duty.

“Judaism teaches that once you prosper, it’s

“I’m all over the place for work. My checking account allows free ATM transactions anywhere plus online banking and more. Very convenient, and a real advantage.”

good to give back, at least to the community you live in,” Blumenthal explains. “My brothers and I were shown the philanthropic path at a relatively

Radiator Specialty Company

– I’m Henry Rabinovich, president of Liquid Ice Corporation, and my banker is Jerry McGuire.

Member FDIC

Corporate Office 1355 Greenwood Cliff, Suite 200 Charlotte, N.C. 28204 Phone: 704 688-2302 Principals: Alan Blumenthal, Chairman; Philip Blumenthal; Samuel Blumenthal; John Huber, President and CEO Headquarters Office 600 Radiator Road Indian Trail, N.C. 28079 Phone: 704-821-7643 Founded: 1924, family owned Employees: 227 In Business: 84 years Sales Office Locations: Indian Trail, N.C.; Bremen, Ind., and Mississauga, Canada Manufacturing and Distribution Centers: Indian Trail, N.C. and Bremen, Ind. Annual Sales: In excess of $100 million (90% domestic and 10% export) Business: Privately held business developing and manufacturing industrial, plumbing and automotive products; approximately 2,000 active part numbers today, primarily cleaners, degreasers, lubricants and specialty performance additives, produced in aerosol and liquid-pour containers; popular brand examples include SOLDER SEAL, GUNK, LIQUID WRENCH, ENGINE BRITE, TITE SEAL AND PUNCTURE SEAL. www.gunk.com

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

Matthews 704.814.1200 Cornelius/Lake Norman 704.987.9990 SouthPark 704.442.5900 Uptown Charlotte 704.945.6565

j uly 2008

13

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july 2008

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by janet kropinak

[bizlife]

Scaping

it out

Metro Greenscape Brings the Outdoors to Life

Seeded in professionalism and creativity, entrepreneurs Darin and Heather Brockelbank credit Metro Greenscape’s success to a good foundation of work ethic and strong principles. They have determined to be a significant part of the expanding outdoor living trend in the Charlotte marketplace and beyond.

On a mission to create beautiful outdoor living scapes that will enhance the lifestyle of their customers while embracing the surrounding green environment, Metro Greenscape has flourished in the custom outdoor living design and build business, thriving on the challenges of bringing the outdoors in, so to speak.

Growing a Business Not many people could successfully transition

me if I didn’t exude a certain level of confidence,

can be learned, but having a positive attitude and

but that took time.”

work ethic is something our employees need to have instilled in them.”

a basic lawn care service business into a sophisti-

As Darin accumulated successes in the busi-

cated outdoor living design and build company,

ness, he grew more comfortable. His next challenge

In addition to handpicked staff, another con-

but for owners Darin and Heather Brockelbank,

came when the volume of business forced him to

tributing factor to Metro Greenscape’s success has

although it was no easy feat, they have thrived in

expand his work force.

been the mindset of its ownership. The Brockel-

the challenges each unique situation presents and

“Learning how to make a good hire and how to

banks refer to themselves as ‘lifelong learners,’ an

manage people is such a large piece of the puzzle

attitude that has greatly benefited them, leaving

Initially, the hardest part for me was over-

and imperative to the success of any organization,”

them open to new concepts and ideas.

coming my own insecurities,” Darin remembers.

he acknowledges. “First and foremost we are look-

“I couldn’t expect someone to do business with

ing for people who are professional. The skill sets

the obstacles they have had to overcome.

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

Metro Greenscape began as a five-person shop, with two workers in the field. The company

j uly 2008

➤

15

now employs 25 full-time staff, including two

magazines—that show what they are looking for;

designers plus additional seasonal help. Although

this always gives us a head start on ideas,” says

90 percent of their business is residential, Metro

Heather. “It also gives them a chance to be an

Greenscape has done commercial projects, mostly

active participant in the process.”

Darin chimes in: “We are helping people to

at the request of clients and on a referral basis.

maximize their space and find out how to best uti-

“We got into the market just as outdoor living

lize their area to fit with their objectives.”

was gaining momentum and becoming recognized within the industry,” Darin remembers. “It

“The Metro Greenscape team was very consci-

was exciting because we were involved on the

entious with providing a high level of service,

ground level, no pun intended.”

staying in communication so that we knew what

Only biting off as much as they could chew

was going on at all times during the project, and

helped ensure Metro Greenscape’s growth was

making sure we were satisfied with the work,”

successful. Instead of trying to be everything to

comments Mike Whitehead, who had his back-

everyone, Darin and Heather combined their

yard redesigned by Metro Greenscape. “They were great to work with. They did what they said

strengths and collective skills and found their niche in the market.

“Darin is a terrific salesman and he has a certain charm about him. Customers love him. He is

Darin and Heather Brockelbank Owners Metro Greenscape

and worked hard to make sure we were happy with the results.”

Before Metro Greenscape breaks any ground,

very energetic and confident and customers see

its design team conducts an assessment which

and appreciate this,” says Heather with a smile.

includes a survey of the land, a consultation with

In addition to being the Brockelbanks’ hometown, Charlotte is also the perfect location for an outdoor living company, says Darin, because of the moderate climate and melting pot of people.

“This climate and the influx of new denizens provide fertile ground for the acceptance of new ideas

“Patience, creative design and craftsmanship, those are the takeaways from working with Metro Greenscape.” ~ Ryan Fischer Metro Greenscape Client

and creative thinking,” he explains.

Although starting a business in any field pres-

the owners, and drawing up a set of plans. Consultation costs range from $500 to $1,000.

Planning for projects usually begins around three months out, due to prep time, allowing ample time for decision-making and allowing Metro Greenscape time to schedule work.

While simpler projects can begin around $3,000, the average project cost ranges near

ents challenges, learning the ins and outs of a new

design elements across a variety of price points,

$10,000, factoring in contractor and design fees

industry adds another dimension to the challenge.

taking us to stone and lumber yards, showing us

and at least a week of labor. An example of a typ-

Darin notes the importance of being familiar with

other homes to get additional ideas and under-

ical project is a patio with fireplace or small out-

all aspects of the business, and recognizing limita-

stand how various features could work together.”

door kitchen.

tions. “I haven’t mastered every aspect of this busi-

Always keeping customer service at the fore-

For someone considering a renovation, the

ness,” he admits, “but I have tried over the years to

front of their working relationships, Darin and his

easiest way to estimate a cost can be represented

build an understanding of the business and indus-

staff work hard to make sure the customer is satis-

by taking 10 percent of your home’s market value.

try as a whole so I could best serve our customers

fied with their new surroundings and remain

Studies have shown the average return on invest-

and run the business more effectively.”

available to them for future follow-up work.

ment is roughly a 16 to 18 percent increase in the home’s value.

“In the beginning I took a lot of notes and

“We aren’t just selling someone a product or

sometimes had to do things twice, but I’m happy

service,” Darin points out. “We are creating a space

Because the industry is still new and growing,

to say that seems like a long time ago,” Darin

for people to live their lives in. That is a large

there continue to be new materials and new tech-

remembers. “In actuality, it was learning ‘on the

investment on everyone’s part and one that needs

niques. Learning is the one constant. The Metro

job’—we were learning as much from our cus-

to be thought out thoroughly.”

Greenscape designers and staff work hard to stay abreast of cutting edge trends by attending trade

tomers as they were learning from us. It was those early partnerships that have contributed signifi-

Designing Dreams

shows, traveling and doing independent research.

The first step in creating a scape for a poten-

“Some of the newer trends we are seeing

What the Brokelbanks quickly learned was

tial customer is for them to start verbalizing their

include custom wooden cabanas, play sets that

that more than anything, people wanted someone

desires. “I always ask a lot of questions about

match the style of the home, in ground trampo-

to listen to them and help formulate their thoughts

what their hopes are for the space and what their

lines, small outdoor showers with swimming

into a personalized backyard escape.

cantly to the growth of our business.”

ultimate goals are,” says Heather, chief designer.

pools, and rock grottos where water spills into the

Praising their ability to listen and perform is

She explains that entertaining habits, family

pool,” says Heather, just naming a few.

former client, Ryan Fischer: “Patience, creative

dynamic and pets are all important factors to con-

design and craftsmanship, those are the takeaways

sider when designing.

One distinction Darin stresses is the difference between landscape designers and outdoor living

from working with Metro Greenscape. They

“The best thing for customers to do is pro-

specialists. “I think it is important for people to

worked with us every step of the way, offering

vide us with pictures—from other places or

understand that there is a difference between the

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july 2008

w ww. grea te rc har lottebiz .co m

two. Just because you can do one half of it, does-

actually helping us, people are putting more

n’t mean you have the skills required to do the

money into their current homes,” explains Darin.

other half. As outdoor living specialists, we have

“People aren’t necessarily vacationing as much and

the skills and resources to do the whole package.”

are working to create a better outdoor living envi-

includes

ronment in their homes. And this is only increas-

kitchens, aquascapes, patios, retreats, and spe-

ing the equity of their home in the long run, so it’s

cialized landscaping projects. “If someone can

a win-win.”

Metro

Greenscape’s

resume

think it up, we can find a way to make it happen

Further affirmation that they are onto

for them,” says Darin optimistically. “Our num-

something big came this spring when Metro

ber one objective is to give our customers a

Greenscape walked away with two of the top

space they are comfortable in while adding value

three awards at the Southern Spring Show. “We

to their lives and homes.”

felt like ‘new kids on the block’ so it was really

“If someone can think it up, we can find a way to make it happen for them. Our number one objective is to give our customers a space they are comfortable in while adding value to their lives and homes.” ~ Darin Brockelbank Owner Metro Greenscape

humbling and really rewarding to be recognized Building a Future Darin proudly boasts the company’s 2007

among the industry. It was a big sign to us that we are doing things right.”

profits at upwards of $2 million and acknowl-

Metro Greenscape also garnered national

edges they have doubled in profits every year

recognition when they were featured on A&E’s

since 2004. For a company that got its start as a

Flip this House series in 2006 for a house they

neighborhood lawn care service, this is quite an

worked on in the Lake Wylie area.

accomplishment, but the Brockelbank’s aren’t stopping here.

With a growing company and two small children and a third on the way, the Brockelbanks

been easy, but to see where we have come from and where we are going makes us so excited for the future.”

The Brockelbanks have hopes of expanding the company but remain adamant about remaining involved in the daily operations.

The Metro Greenscape team is made up of seasoned outdoor living and landscape professionals that are passionate about their work and have a strong desire to not only create unique outdoor spaces but also long lasting relationships. With this mantra instilled in them, and their cadre of projects as their resume, the company is poised for further growth and success. biz

Janet Kropinak is a Charlotte-based freelance writer.

Metro Greenscape, Inc.

Both Darin and Heather have ideas on the future and the direction they’d like to see business go, which for both includes eventually franchising the business.

They head into each day with the hope of

have their hands full, but they remain focused and dedicated parents as well as business owners.

“At 5 o’clock, it is family time until the kids go to bed, and if we need to, we pick back up, whatever it takes to get the job done,” says Heather.

learning something new and say they are fortunate

And for those who feel running a business

that the slowdown in the economy isn’t impacting

with your spouse would hold obstacles in itself,

their business; in fact, it might just be doing the

Heather boasts of the working relationship with

opposite. Projections are showing 2008 revenues

her husband. “We really enjoy working together

could near $3 million, and with recession worries,

and compliment each other very well. He has

this is more than steady growth.

done a terrific job of growing this company and

“The slow down we are seeing in the market is

13601 South Tryon Street Charlotte, N.C. 28278 Phone: 704-504-0980 Principals: Darin Brockelbank, Founder and Owner; Heather Brockelbank, Chief Designer Founded: 2004 2007 Sales: $2 million Employees: 25 full-time, plus seasonal employees Awards: 2nd place in Best of Show and Art Award at the 2008 Southern Spring Home & Garden Show Business: Custom outdoor living design and build company serving homeowners across the Carolinas, specializing in designing and building environmentally-friendly outdoor living spaces including kitchens, a quaspaces, patios, retreats, and specialized landscaping projects. www.metrogreenscape.com

I have enjoyed every step of the way. It hasn’t

purs uing a balance of busi nes s and life

j uly 2008

17

[bizprofile]

18

july 2008

by casey jacobus

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MAKING IT K C O R BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO TROUTMAN CHAIR

O R

Rocking chairs and other kinds of chairs, made in the little town of Troutman in Iredell County, can be found on porches and restaurants up and down the eastern seaboard. But until Champ and Jean Land bought the company in 1999, not many chair owners knew anything about the company that makes them.

At the time, the North Carolina furniture industry was in a serious downward spiral. However, Champ Land, a former sales rep for Action Lane recliners, believed the company could thrive if it could become more efficient and broaden its market.

“I saw an opportunity to use what I had learned to make the company a household name and to expand distribution,” says Land.

Since buying the company, the Lands have made changes that have further enhanced an already great product. They added more high-tech equipment, which has made production more efficient and the product better. They added painting as a new service—original Troutman chairs came unfinished or with a clear finish.And they expanded the product line and changed the delivery method.

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

They also began a major marketing push.

They began stamping the Troutman Chair logo on the arm braces of every rocker and created a hang tag with the company’s logo for every chair. They also recreated the original 1925 Model T truck that was used in the early days to deliver the company’s chairs, although they actually decided to get a 1930 Model A, as the Model T, with its crank start and no clutch was a bit impractical. The truck is featured on the company’s hang tag and is a big hit at parades and furniture shows.

Today, Troutman Chair Company makes 40,000 pieces of furniture every year and has 1,200 customers on its mailing list. It ships across the continental United States and as far away as Germany. Sixty percent of its business is in rocking chairs.

“We bought a ‘diamond in the rough’,” says Land. “Troutman Chair was already making

j uly 2008

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19

higher moisture content than the smaller posts (rungs). With the variance in moisture content, the small posts swell as they absorb moisture from the larger posts and the larger posts shrink as they lose moisture to smaller parts, making a much tighter fit than if they had been glued. A Troutman chair grows tighter over time.

“These time honored furniture techniques ensure Troutman chairs will stand up to years of use. We can offer a lifetime warranty because of our construction techniques.” ~ Champ Land Owner

Champ and Jean Land Owners Troutman Chair Company

Another Shaker construction technique used at Troutman Chair is “interlocking joinery.” The front frame and back frame of the chairs and rockers are assembled separately.

When these two parts are clamped together, the boring on each frame notches the dowel on the front and back posts, making it nearly impossible for the front assembly or the back assembly to be pulled apart.

“Our construction technique is like building

the best product in its category. We saw an

with Lincoln Logs,” says Land. “Consequently,

opportunity to spread the word and sell the

we are able to sell to stores that are looking for

product in different geographies.”

better goods.

Swinging High

changes. They added stainless steel nails to

The Lands have made some additional Troutman Chair Company was established in

accommodate outdoor use, carved an addi-

1924. The original owners lost it to the bank dur-

tional curve in the front of the seat to make it

ing the Great Depression, but Herman Brown pur-

more comfortable, and boxed the chairs for

chased the company in 1927. The Brown family

faster delivery. In the past, the company had

owned and operated it for 65 years before selling

blanket-wrapped the rockers and delivered on

to the Lands, producing farmhouse shaker-style

their own trucks. This meant waiting to ship

chairs, rockers, stools, juvenile chairs and tables.

Troutman Chair Company is one of the last

until a truckload of chairs was ready. Boxing the

Items were solid oak, delivered unfinished or with

vertically integrated furniture manufacturers in

chairs means the rockers can travel on trucks

a varnish finish. Beginning with the Model T and

the United States. Oak logs are bought on site

with other goods, significantly cutting the time

continuing with modern Ford Trucks, Troutman

from local loggers and then milled at Troutman

from order to delivery.

Chair used their own delivery trucks.

Chair’s own sawmill. The wood is cut to dimen-

Champ and Jean Land purchased Troutman

sion, stacked and air dried.

The Lands have also made changes to the product line. Troutman Chair now offers stools,

Chair with the intention of continuing the tradi-

Purchasing and milling their own lumber

chairs and rockers in a variety of finishes and col-

tion of handcrafting rockers with the same quality

allows the company to utilize a technique, bor-

ors. The Lands have added products including a

manufacturing techniques used since the com-

rowed from Shaker design, called “swelled joint

side table just the right height for rockers, seat

pany’s beginning.

construction.” No glue is used in any Troutman

options for the chairs, solid oak tops on stools,

“These time honored furniture techniques

Chair product. Instead, moisture content in the

chairs, and juvenile tables.

ensure Troutman chairs will stand up to years of

lumber is closely monitored. At the right point

use,” says Land. “We can offer a lifetime frame

the wood is made into base pieces.

warranty because of our construction techniques.”

20

july 2008

Larger posts (front and back posts) have a

Upon requests from customers, Troutman developed a taller and wider rocker to accommodate taller people and due to its stately look

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named it the Plantation rocker. As always, one

helping students with ADD and ADHD to better

North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler

thing leads to another, and of course, requests

adapt and focus in the learning environment,” says

Business School. “Lower cost structures,

came in for an even larger rocker. Because comfort

Land. “I found this fascinating.”

improved quality and efficient distribution from

is paramount with Troutman, another even larger

Troutman Chair Company meets Green Initiatives by:

rocking chair is available for linebacker/power forward types! Chairs and stools can also be personalized with laser-burned logos or names. These are often used as retirement gifts.

Pitching the Product The Lands are always looking for new ways to establish brand recognition for their rocking chairs. Their goal in purchasing a company that already manufactures the best product in its category and enjoys a near perfect reputation was to merely enhance the best and offer it to the rest of the country. Two years ago Champ Land saw a new marketing opportunity at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

In 1997, the airport had placed white wooden rocking chairs in the airport’s atrium to accom-

• Purchasing oak logs from local loggers clearing land for commercial and/or residential developments.

• 75 percent of Troutman Chair’s lumber is bought from the Appalachian Mountains deemed by the US Forestry Service as a renewable resource.

• Operating its own saw mill to control waste.

• Designing products so little scrap wood is generated. Selling what scrap wood is generated for kindling.

• Selling moist sawdust to a local brickyard for use in its furnace.

• Selling dry sawdust to farmers to use as bedding for dairy cows.

• Recycling paper, paint drums, bottles, cans, pallets, and cardboard.

overseas producers are forcing U.S. firms to source goods offshore from countries like China.

Unable to compete on a cost basis, companies are closing down their domestic operations and jobs are being lost.”

Although the North Carolina furniture industry is in a harsh downward spiral, many experts believe there are still tremendous opportunities for furniture manufacturing. The primary argument is that with a strong housing market, increasingly larger homes, favorable demographics, and growing affluence, North Carolina is still in a prime position for a successful furniture industry.

Champ Land agrees with the experts who suggest there is a future for the North Carolina furniture industry. Since the Lands purchased the Troutman Chair Company, quality is up, sales are up, and distribution has expanded.

pany a photography exhibit entitled “Porchsitting: A Charlotte Album.” The chairs became a huge

President John F. Kennedy was one of the

They have brought about these changes by

success with travelers and became a permanent

most prominent people to promote rocking

focusing on efficiency, delivery, marketing, and,

feature at the airport. However, in 2006 the com-

chair therapy. Rocking was first recommended

above all, continuing to manufacture a quality

pany that had been providing the airport with

to the young senator from Massachusetts in

rocking chair.

chairs announced plans to stop manufacturing

1955 by his physician, Janet Travell. Kennedy

“Our success has been because we make a

them in North Carolina.

was suffering from lingering back problems as

great product, stand behind it, and service our

Land initiated talks with airport officials and

the result of a war injury. Travell prescribed the

customers with southern style,” says Land.

reached an arrangement whereby Troutman Chair

use of a rocking chair as therapy to ease his

“We are thankful that consumers are once

supplies 110 rockers to the airport, which in turn

pain. She believed that a rocking chair relieved

again becoming interested in products made

displays signage that talks about Troutman Chair

tension in the lower back by keeping the mus-

in the U.S.” biz

Company and gives the Web site address. As a

cles moving, contracting and relaxing.

Casey Jacobus is a Charlotte-based freelance writer.

result, Land says the company’s Web site had

Land began researching rocking chair therapy

almost a million hits over the last twelve months.

and, seeing an opportunity to expand sales of his

The Web site was designed to give consumers

product in the health arena, established a Web

knowledge about how the product is made and

site, www.rockingchairtherapy.org, to further

Troutman Chair Company, L.L.C.

why spending a little more for a rocker is well

explore and gather information for people inter-

worthwhile. The Web site also directs consumers

ested in the subject. The site includes personal

to Troutman dealers.

accounts, therapist insight, medical research and

134 Rocker Lane Troutman, N.C. 28166 Phone: 704-872-7625 Founded: 1924, under current ownership since 1999 Principals: Champ and Jean Land, Coowners Annual Production: 40,000 pieces of furniture Plant Size: 40,000 square feet Employees: 38 Business: Manufacturer of handcrafted wooden rocking chairs, chairs, stools, tables and children’s tables. www.troutmanchairs.com www.rockingchairtherapy.org

Land saw another opportunity for marketing when the furniture industry began to promote environmentally conscious practices and products.

historical references on the topic.

“We started the Web site last June and it is getting a lot of hits,” Land confirms.

“Green Initiatives are one of the hot buttons in the furniture industry,” says Land. “Since we are already exceeding most of the recommended standards, why not get credit for it?”

Gliding Up The furniture industry has been a huge part of North Carolina’s economy for a long time.

Champ Land has found yet another market-

However, the industry has taken a tremen-

ing opportunity in the research being done by

dous hit in recent years. Between 1997 and

scientists and physicians into the therapeutic

2002, North Carolina lost more than 26,000 jobs

benefits of rocking in a rocking chair.

in furniture manufacturing, as 46 companies

“One day I had a conversation with a teacher

shut down.

from the West Coast who claimed that he had

“The United States furniture industry is in

used our ‘No. 7’ rocker in his classroom and it was

trouble,” begins a report from the University of

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

j uly 2008

21

[bizprofile]

by ellison clary

Purr-fect Choice Delivers

fuel savings and clean air

R

idership on the Lincoln County express bus to and from Charlotte has jumped 70 percent since 2007, and Keith Parker knows why. The chief executive of the Charlotte Area Transit System, or CATS, is listening to what people said they want in commuter bus service. And he’s giving it to them.

Half a year into his job, Parker is presiding over huge hikes in ridership for all of CATS’ bus commuter lines. Those in the commuter portion of the 68,000 who ride buses daily are enjoying reconfigured interiors that feature storage racks for briefcases and laptop computers. They’re relaxing in reclining seats and using individual reading lights.

They can turn on or shut off the air flow.

to meet their needs,”

dependable vehicle, what they want. He found

Parker explains. “Even with

they need routes that avoid center city and trans-

these high gas prices, if someone tries

port them directly from their homes to necessary

us for a week and the drivers are rude and the

stops such as grocery stores. That explains the

buses are not on time and uncomfortable, they’ll Oh,

just go ahead and pay the high gas prices.”

and they like the

He knows all this because he surveyed poten-

courteous drivers who place a

growing popularity of shuttle lines.

Parker is about to survey the community again, but that is getting ahead of the story.

tial choice riders across the greater Charlotte region

Parker took the CATS helm on December 22,

premium on staying on schedule.

shortly after he signed on with CATS in 2000. Ron

2007, replacing Tober, who retired and subse-

These commuters are what Parker calls

Tober, who was chief executive then, directed him

quently signed on to run Charlotte’s historic trolley.

to build service to that demographic.

It was just after voters had crushed an attempt to

“choice riders,” people who can drive to work if they want, but who opt to use CATS. “To get them to ride and stay as riders, we had

22

“It’s partly the experience. We see people who drive out of their way to get on the LYNX line and make it a part of what they are doing. I thought that would take years.”

july 2008

He also asked another group of riders, those who take the bus because they don’t have a

repeal the half-cent sales tax that funds much of CATS’ operations.

w ww. grea te rc har lottebiz .co m

Keith Parker CEO Charlotte Area Transit Systems

The day after the November ballots were

receiving from the anti-tax crowd.” People began to

estimate of $230 million. Parker likens that escala-

counted, Parker remembers feeling relieved and

see that rescinding the half-cent sales tax wouldn’t

tion to price jumps for most big capital endeavors,

proud. The 70 percent sales tax victory margin sur-

save them significant dollars, he adds, pointing out

including high profile road projects such as Inter-

prised him, Parker admits but is quick to outline

that a typical Charlotte family pays $40 a year to

state 485.

what he believes are the reasons for it.

the transit tax.

the damage the demise of that important funding

“The price of steel and concrete, the price of labor, and just the competition with the world has

“People recognized two things,” he says. First is Light Rail an Overwhelming Success

dramatically increased the cost of major capital projects,” he points out.

source would inflict on some of Charlotte’s most

With the fairly new LYNX Blue Line humming

needy residents. It would take a long time, he says,

on its 9.6 mile route, serving 15 stations between

The success of the light rail line is undeniable.

to address the resulting woes for those who can’t

center city and I-485 at South Boulevard, Parker is

LYNX ridership, projected to be 9,100 per day, is

afford a car and depend on CATS to get to work.

enjoying a drop in light rail criticism.

averaging 13,000. For special events, it’s more than

“Secondly, to be blunt,” he says, “I think folks

Some still point to the light rail line’s cost,

really started to negate the message they were

which ballooned to $452.7 million from an initial

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

double that.

Speed Street, the center city celebration of

j uly 2008

23

➤

system that did enjoy first-rate management. He used Richmond lessons to bolster the Vancouver system. After he left, voters granted it new funding.

Straddling the Tracks Now Parker has two titles. As director of public transit for the city of Charlotte, he answers to city manager Curt Walton. As chief executive of CATS, he answers to a board of directors currently led by Jennifer Roberts, chair of the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners.

Roberts praises the open, responsive style and likes the way he shares credit. “He takes the time to thank his staff,” she says, “from the mechanics and drivers to the administrators and racing that coincides with NASCAR’s All-Star

nationwide search; one that interviewers feared

engineers. He recognizes the success of CATS is

Race and the Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe’s Motor

would be hampered by concern about the anti-

due to productive teamwork.”

Speedway, spurred a new record for LYNX riders,

sales tax campaign.

with 35,000 hopping on board the Friday before

“Keith’s transition from assistant city manager

“I told the search committee very early on,”

to CEO of CATS has been a natural and seamless

Parker recalls, “that I wanted this job no matter

one for him and the organization,” Walton says.

“It’s partly the experience,” Parker smiles, “it’s

what. Even more so if the funding was lost,

“He is committed to building one of the finest

not just the transportation. We see people who

because I’m quite experienced at that and felt that

transit systems in the country with a focus on

drive out of their way to get on the LYNX line and

I would be suitable.”

providing affordable and efficient choices in

Memorial Day weekend.

make it a part of what they are doing. I thought that would take years.”

He points out that the Vancouver system he

transportation.”

presided over lost its major funding source when a

Parker presides over a $140 million budget.

Parker had been running a transit system in

much-reviled tax on motor vehicles was repealed.

Only 25 percent of it comes from fares which are

Vancouver, across the Oregon-Washington state

“We found ourselves going from a cash-heavy

$1.30 now and likely will rise to $1.50 in the fall.

line from Portland, when he came to Charlotte

system in great expansion mode to losing 42 per-

“I don’t for a second apologize that we use sales

in 2000 to be CATS deputy director for opera-

cent of our funding overnight,” he says with a head

tax money to support the transit system,” says an

tions. He switched to being an assistant city

shake. “I went from being the guy growing the sys-

adamant Parker. “I think it’s really money very, very

manager in 2004.

tem to the person who was making sure we had

well spent. And it’s spent on people who are driv-

enough things in place to survive.”

ing our economy on a daily basis.”

Though he took that position with some hesitancy, he professes that he’s glad he did because it helped him see how others viewed CATS. To run CATS, he beat out candidates in a

24

july 2008

Fortunately, it was a task for which he was pre-

CATS has 377 City of Charlotte employees and

pared. The native of Petersburg, Va., had learned

another 850 who are contract workers, including

the transit ropes in Richmond, a poorly funded

bus drivers and mechanics. The system counts

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almost 500 vehicles, including 344 full-sized

More Opinion Checks On Way

Interest in a streetcar line from Beatties Ford

buses. There are 16 light rail cars. The system

Feeling more at home in the office Tober once

Road through center city, past Presbyterian Hospi-

recently bought four more of these, but delivery

used, Parker’s ready to pose more questions to the

tal and out Central Avenue to Eastland Mall, is

will take two years.

public. “How’re we doing?” he intends to ask on

building and its 2018 start date may get speeded

surveys and in appearances at civic affairs.

up significantly, Parker says.

“One of the things that that was an unfortunate consequence of the sales tax repeal effort

Big decisions loom. By spring 2009, prelim-

Meanwhile, the historic trolley is back in

was that we delayed purchasing additional vehi-

inary studies will be far enough along to make a

operation, chugging along at top speed of 25

cles,” Parker says. “We are behind in our bus

call on two more rail projects. One is an exten-

miles per hour.

orders. We won’t actually see any new buses for

sion of the LYNX line through the UNC Char-

“We’re a hot property,” Parker smiles. He recalls

six or seven months.

lotte campus and close to the Cabarrus County

a recent survey that ranked Charlotte at the top of

“Keith’s transition from assistant city manager to CEO of CATS has been a natural and seamless one for him and the organization. He is committed to building one of the finest transit systems in the country with a focus on providing affordable and efficient choices in transportation.” ~ Curt Walton Charlotte City Manager

a livable city list. Reporting that on its Web site, MSNBC used a visual of a LYNX car. “That was the symbol of Charlotte,” he says.

What’s next for Parker? At 41, he admittedly works longer hours than he’d like and he enjoys amusement park trips with his wife and two young daughters.

He’ll stay at the CATS helm “as long as we’re doing good things and I’m making a solid contri-

Parker has watched fuel prices skyrocket

line—or possibly all the way to the speedway

bution,” he says. But he adds, “It’s not a job I can

from $3 million a year when he arrived in 2000

just a stone’s throw across it. The other is a com-

retire from.” Citing significant stress, he reckons

to the $12 million budgeted for next year. “We

muter rail line from center city to Mooresville in

he’ll be around another five to seven years.

were spending 80-something cents for a gallon

southern Iredell County.

of diesel in 2000,” he says. “Next year we’re budgeting $3.50.”

After that, perhaps he’ll pursue his dream job:

“We’ll have to decide on recommendations to build one of them, build both or build neither,” he says. Though the expense

Bus ridership overall is up 28 percent in recent months, much of

would be enormous, he hopes

it coming from commuters,

there will be justification to at

folks who want to

least build one and

save gas money and

phase in the other.

enjoy being dropped

For the southeast

off at the front door of

corridor along Inde-

their building.

pendence Boulevard

Parker

to

points

Matthews,

decision

Ore., families have

made on light rail or

made a decision to

buses until 2011.

have only one car

“Whichever it is,”

and

Parker says, “it will

use

public

will

no

out that in Portland,

be

be high-speed serv-

transportation.

Charlotte needs

ice on a separated

to get where Port-

guideway; it will

land

that

carry a lot of people

count, says Parker,

quickly and be sepa-

who on most days

rated from regular

takes an express bus

traffic.”

is

on

A route from

between his GovCenter

center city to Char-

office and a park-

lotte-Douglas Inter-

and-ride lot near his

national Airport will

ernment

get enhanced bus

Huntersville home.

“If we continue to be smart about our invest-

service in 2009, probably on vehicles with a

ments, and people continue to see us as a viable

distinctive color scheme and brand. Eventually,

alternative, we can get there.”

a streetcar line will replace it.

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

Teaching public policy at the university level. biz

Ellison Clary is a Charlotte-based freelance writer.

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) 600 E. Fourth Street Charlotte, N.C. 28202-2858 Phone: 704-336-7902 Principal: Keith Parker, Director of Public Transit for the City of Charlotte and CEO of the Charlotte Area Transit System Appointed: December 2007 Budget: $140 million (2008) Employees: 377; 850 contract workers Ridership: Over 65,000 daily; in FY2007, CATS’ ridership increased 3.1 percent, transporting over 19.7 million passengers Vehicles: Nearly 500: 344 full-sized buses; 100 smaller vans; a number of Gold Rush rubber-tired shuttles; 3 steel-wheeled trolleys; 16 light rail cars In business: 7 years, created from Transportation Department of the City of Charlotte Business: Managed by the Public Transit Department of the City of Charlotte and a board of directors; provides public transportation with both buses and rail in Mecklenburg County and with buses in surrounding counties. www.charmeck.org/Departments/CATS

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25

...There is overwhelming evidence that individuals attaining higher levels of education and training are more often and better employed and routinely describe themselves as more successful and having greater job satisfaction...

Work Force Education Directory

26

july 2008

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W

elcome to our annual Greater Charlotte Biz directory of Charlotte regional business education offerings, from traditional business education programs to customized work force training responding to global competition in an increasingly digital age.

The American economy is transitioning to an economy founded on new production and employment systems as a result of developing technology and global competition—the “new economy.”

This new economy is directly impacting work force skills, requiring higher levels of education as well as more specialized training.

In this increasing age of displacement, there is overwhelming Appalachian State University Walker College of Business ASU Box 32037 Boone, N.C. 28608-0001 828-262-2057 www.appstate.edu Undergraduate: B.S.B.A.(Bachelor of Science in business aministration) with majors in accounting, computer information systems, economics, finance and banking, health care management, hospitality and tourism management, international business, management (with concentrations in entrepreneurship, general management and human resource management, marketing, risk management and insurance Graduate: M.B.A., M.S. in accounting with general, tax, or systems concentration.

Graduate Certificate: Finance, information systems, and human resource management. Summer international and special international programs available.

Tuition: (Undergraduate) $2,208 per semester fulltime; (Graduate) $2,321.50 per semester full-time Enrollment: 14,293 Public; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

The Art Institute of Charlotte Three LakePointe Plaza 2110 Water Ridge Pkwy Charlotte, N.C. 28217-4536 704-357-8020 www.artsinstitutes.edu/charlotte Undergraduate: B.A.: culinary arts management, digital filmmaking& video production, fashion marketing & management, graphic design, interior design, photography and Web design & interactive media. A.A.S.: culinary arts, fashion marketing, graphic design, interior design, residential design, Web design.

Certificate Programs: Art of cooking, digital

evidence that individuals attaining higher levels of education and training are more often and better employed and routinely describe themselves as more successful and having greater job satisfaction.

There is equally compelling evidence that companies which invest more heavily in work force education have better employee retention and are more successful, more productive and more profitable.

So, whether you are an employer interested in education and training programs to raise the performance levels of your employees, or an individual interested in gaining knowledge or skills for better performance or versatility, this directory should provide some guidance as to the breadth of offerings available.

The information included herein was solicited directly and extracted from the Web site for each school. Only licensed and accredited programs are included in this survey. Prospective students should contact a school directly for additional information.

design, residential design, Web design, some online courses Tuition: $402 per credit hour Proprietary; Accreditation: ACICS

Belmont Abbey College 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd. Belmont, N.C. 28012-2702 704-461-6665; 888-222-0110 www.belmontabbeycollege.edu Undergraduate: B.A., B.S. in business management with concentrations in accounting, accounting and finance, finance, economics, international business, management, marking/communications, management information systems, motorsports management, and sports management.

Adult Degree Program: Business management, accounting, and economics (baccalaureate— evening, weekend, day).

Tuition: Traditional full-time undergraduate per semester—$9,557; Adult Degree Program per credit hour—$329 Enrollment: 1,110 Private [North Carolina’s only Catholic College]; Accreditation: SACS, NCATE

Capella University-An Exclusively Online University School of Business and Technology 225 South 6th Street, 9th Floor Minneapolis, Minn. 55402 888-CAPELLA www.capellauniversity.edu Online Undergraduate: B.S. in business with specializations in accounting, business administration, finance, human resource management, management and leadership, marketing, project management, and retail management. B.S. in information technology with specializations in general information technology, and software

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

architecture.

Online Graduate: M.B.A.; M.S. in organization and management; M.S. in information technology; Ph.D. in organization and management, information technology Other: Professional development courses available with certificates in human resource management, information assurance and security, project management, and leadership; and also a PHR/SPHR Certification Exam Preparation Course.

Tuition: Certificate Courses-$2,060 per course (PHR/SPHR Certification Exam Preparation Course-$1,340); B.S.-$1,860 per online 6-credit course; M.B.A.-$1,875 per online 3-credit course; M.S.-$2,120 per online 4-credit course; Ph.D.$4,335 per online quarter. Capella has education alliances with more than 100 corporations.

Enrollment: 23,496 Private; Accreditation: NCA

Catawba College Ketner School of Business 2300 West Innes St. Salisbury, N.C. 28144-2488 1-800-CATAWBA www.catawba.edu Undergraduate: (Day Program) B.S. in business administration with concentrations in accounting, economics, general management, information systems, and marketing.

Adult Degree Program: (Evening Program) B.B.A. with concentrations in business management, information systems, and administration of justice.

Tuition: 2008-09: (Undergraduate Day Program) $22,290 annual, full-time; (Evening Program Undergraduate)$270 per semester credit hour; (Graduate) $150 per semester credit hour Total School Enrollment: 1,350 Private [United Church of Christ]; Accreditation: SACS ➤

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Catawba Valley Community College 2250 Hwy. 70 SE Hickory, N.C. 28602-5164 828-327-7000 www.cvcc.edu Undergraduate: A.A., A.A.S. in business administration, in accounting, graphic arts and imaging, Web technology.

Graduate: M.B.A. Other: Certificate program in business administration and corporate continuing education courses available.

Tuition: N.C. resident—$42.00 per credit hour; Non-resident—$233.00 per credit hour Enrollment: 4,776 Public; Accreditation: SACS, ACBSP

Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) Central Campus 1201 Elizabeth Ave. Charlotte, N.C. 28204-2240 704-330-2722 www.cpcc.edu Campus Locations: 6 Charlotte area campuses, The Harris Corporate Training and Conference Center located on the Harris Campus, and the

new Dale F. Halton Theater on Central Campus.

The College offers a number of online courses.

Undergraduate: Over 100 degree, diploma and certificate programs. (Associate in applied science, Associate in Arts, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate in General Education; Associate in Science/ General, and Associate in Science, including A.A.S. in business administration, and international business.

Other: Specialized certificate in business management. Degree, diploma, work force development process improvement and certification programs; computer skills, technical and safety training, customized corporate training; market-focused continuing education; and special interest classes.

New programs: non-destructive examination technology, surgical technology, geospatial technology, simulation and game development, and integrated systems technology. The Institute for Entrepreneurship supports small business owners and start-ups in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. (www.cpcctraining.org/e-institute).

Tuition: Fewer than 16 semester credit hours— $42.00 per credit; 16 semester credit hours or more—$672 per semester Enrollment: Over 70,000 people served annually Public; Accreditation: SACS

Cleveland Community College 137 South Post Rd. Shelby, N.C. 28152-6205 704-484-4073 www.cleveland.cc.nc.us Undergraduate: A.A. in pre-business administration and pre-business education and marketing; A.A.S. in accounting, business administration with concentrations in electronic commerce, marketing and retailing; information systems, information systems/network administrator and support.

Other: Diploma and certificate programs available; continuing education courses available; online and distance learning courses available.

Small Business Center: Small business seminars Tuition: Fewer than 16 semester credit hours— $42.00 per credit; 16 semester credit hours or more—$672 per semester Enrollment: 3,047 Public; Accreditation: SACS

Davidson College Box 7156 Davidson, N.C. 28035-7156 704-894-2230 www.davidson.edu Undergraduate: B.A.

➤

DISTANCE EDUCATION 28

july 2008

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In the city of leaders, there’s always room for one more.

Connections are everything.

In Charlotte, they’re everywhere. This is a city of movers and shakers. Entrepreneurs and corporate giants. And our students get to rub shoulders with the brightest and the best through a dynamic network of faculty, advisory board members, alumni, and fellow students.

• FULL-TIME/FAST TRACK MBA

Unlimited growth potential, irrepressible

• FLEXIBLE MBA

ambition, an appetite for life. You and

• MASTER OF ACCOUNTANCY

Charlotte might have more in common

• MBA IN SPORTS MARKETING AND MANAGEMENT

than you think.

• MS IN ECONOMICS • MS IN MATHEMATICAL FINANCE • GLOBAL MBA IN MEXICO, HONG KONG OR TAIWAN

THE BELK COLLEGE of BUSINESS

• DUAL-DEGREE MS IN ECONOMICS IN COPENHAGEN • PHD IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

www.belkcollege.uncc.edu

Tuition: $42,950—tuition, room and board Enrollment: 1,714 Private; Accreditation: SACS

DeVry University

An education to expand your career.

ENHANCE YOUR CAREER WITH THE SKILLS OF A GREAT LAWYER.

Whether you have a career in finance, human resources, real estate development, or government administration…Whether you’re a business owner, on your way up the corporate ladder, or considering a career change…A law degree can help expand your opportunities and get you to the next level in your career.

EARN YOUR J.D. WITHOUT LEAVING CHARLOTTE OR YOUR JOB.

Charlotte School of Law offers a full-time program, as well as day and evening part-time programs for working professionals.

GREAT LAWYERING SKILLS. GREAT BUSINESS SKILLS. Legal Writing Research Dispute Resolution

Negotiation Contract Analysis Problem Solving

Decision Making Legal Analysis & Reasoning

CharlotteLaw was recently granted Provisional Accreditation by the American Bar Association.

MOVING IN AUGUST TO CHARLOTTE’S BRYANT PARK

2145 Suttle Avenue • Charlotte, NC 28208 (704) 971-8500 • www.charlottelaw.org

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july 2008

Keller Graduate School of Management 4521 Sharon Rd., Ste. 145 Charlotte, N.C. 28211-3627 704-362-2345 www.keller.edu Undergraduate: B.S. business administration and information technology.

Graduate: M.B.A., master programs in accounting and financial management; human resource management, information systems management, network and communications management, project management, public administration.

Graduate Certificates: Accounting, business administration, electronic commerce management, entrepreneurship, financial analysis, health services management, human resources management, information security information systems management, network and communications management, project management, wireless communications.

Online undergraduate, graduate and graduate certificate programs in business administration.

Tuition: www.devry.edu/tuition/your_cost.jsp Total School Enrollment: 49,000 system-wide (2006) Private; Accreditation: NCA

Duke University Fuqua School of Business One Towerview Drive Durham, N.C. 27708-0120 919-660-7700 www.fuqua.duke.edu Undergraduate (Trinity College of Arts and Sciences): B.A. or B.S. liberal art studies with recommended core courses in economics, statistics, computer science, mathematics and accounting; certificate in markets and management studies.

Graduate (Fuqua School of Business): Duke M.B.A. Daytime; Duke M.B.A. Global Executive; Duke M.B.A. Weekend Executive; Duke M.B.A. Cross Continent; The Duke Goethe Executive M.B.A.; Ph.D. in business administration.

Concentrations: Academic concentrations are offered in all of the major functional and topical areas: accounting and financial analysis, decision sciences, entrepreneurship and innovation, finance, leadership and ethics, management, marketing, operations management, social entrepreneurship, and strategic consulting.

Certificate Programs: Health Sector Management program, Certificate of Excellence in Finance Research Centers: The Fuqua/Coach K Center of Leadership & Ethics (COLE); Center for the Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship (CASE); The Global Capital Markets Center (GMCMC);

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WHY A JWU The Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER); Center of Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI); Center for Customer Relationship Management at Duke University (CCRM) Continuing Studies Certificates: Business coaching, leadership, Duke Leadership Training Associate.

Other: Non-degree executive education programs available; non-degree customized corporate education programs available.

Tuition: Undergraduate admission: $35,512 per academic year; The Duke M.B.A.—Daytime: $44,100 (tuition 2008-09); The Duke M.B.A.— Global Executive: $135,500 (full program tuition); The Duke M.B.A. Weekend Executive—$102,900 (full program tuition); The Duke M.B.A.— Cross Continent: $101,900 (full program tuition); The Duke Goethe Executive M.B.A. program: 56,000 Euro (full program tuition, Euro dollars) Enrollment: 12,991; Fuqua: 1,531 (2008) Private; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

Elon University Martha and Spencer Love School of Business 2075 Campus Box Elon, N.C. 27244-2010 800-334-8448 www.elon.edu Undergraduate: B.S. in business administration with concentrations in management, finance, marketing, international business, entrepreneurship; B.S. in economics and accounting.

Graduate: M.B.A. Tuition: (Undergraduate) $24,076 annual fulltime; (Graduate) $1,500 per course, $19,500 total program Enrollment: 5,230 (2007) Private; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

EDUCATION? Career-oriented Degree Programs taught by industry experienced faculty.

CO-Op & Internship Opportunities providing you with real-life work experience.

Upside-down Curriculum has you taking classes in your major your first term.

Scholarships-more than $75 million in institutional aid awarded last year.

98% of our students are employed within 60 days of graduation!

College of Business: Accounting, Business Administration, Fashion Merchandising & Retail Management, Management, Marketing.

College of Culinary Arts: Baking & Pastry Arts, Culinary Arts, Culinary Arts and Food Service Management, Pastry Arts and Food Service Management.

The Hospitality College: Hotel & Lodging Management, International Hotel and Tourism Management, Restaurant, Food & Beverage Management, Sports - Entertainment Event Management.

IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT WHERE YOU GO TO COLLEGE, IT’S ABOUT WHAT YOU DO WHEN YOU GET THERE, AND WHERE IT WILL TAKE YOU!

1.800.DIAL.JWU www.JWU.edu

Gardner-Webb University Broyhill School of Management Graduate School of Business Campus Box 5168 Boiling Springs, N.C. 28017 704-406-4375 www.business.gardner-webb.edu www.gradbiz.gardner-webb.edu Campus Locations: Graduate business programs offered at: Gardner-Webb University (main campus), Gardner-Webb University at Charlotte; Gardner-Webb University at Statesville; GardnerWebb University at Winston-Salem; Burke/Valdese Center; Surry Community College; Forsyth Country Day School; and Spartanburg Regional Medical Center, Online.

Undergraduate: B.S. in accounting, business administration, computer information systems, economics, finance, international business, and marketing. ➤

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

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Charlotte Regional Work Force E College/University Business School Location Appalachian State University Walker College Boone The Art Institute of Charlotte Charlotte Belmont Abbey College Belmont Capella University School of Business & Technology (online program) Catawba College Ketner School Salisbury Catawba Valley Comm. College Hickory Central Piedmont Comm.College Charlotte (6 locations) Cleveland Comm. College Shelby Davidson College Davidson DeVry University Keller School Charlotte Duke University Fuqua School Durham Elon University Martha and Spencer Love Elon Gardner-Webb University Broyhill School Boiling Springs Gaston College Dallas/Lincolnton/Belmont Johnson C. Smith University Charlotte Johnson & Wales University College of Business Charlotte King’s College Charlotte Lenoir-Rhyne College Charles Snipes Hickory Livingstone College Salisbury Mitchell Comm. College Statesville/Mooresville Montreat College School of Professional & Adult Studies Charlotte/Asheville NC A & T State University Greensboro NC State University College of Management Raleigh Pfeiffer University Misenheimer/Charlotte/Lake Norman Queens University McColl School Charlotte Rowan-Cabarrus Comm. College Salisbury/Concord South Piedmont Comm. College Monroe/Polkton/Wadesboro Strayer University Charlotte/Huntersville UNC Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler Chapel Hill UNC Charlotte Belk College Charlotte UNC Greensboro Bryan School Greensboro University of Phoenix Charlotte USC Columbia The Moore School Columbia, SC Wake Forest University Babcock & Calloway Winston-Salem/Charlotte Wingate University Matthews Center Wingate/Matthews Winthrop University Rock Hill, SC York Technical College Rock Hill, SC

Telephone 828-262-2057 704-357-8020 704-461-6665 888-CAPELLA 800-CATAWBA 828-327-7000 704-330-2722 704-484-4073 704-894-2230 704-362-2345 919-660-7700 800-334-8448 704-406-4375 704-922-6200 704-378-1010 980-598-1000 704-372-0266 828-328-1741 704-216-6000 704-878-3200 800-436-2777 336-334-7500 919-515-2011 704-463-1360 704-337-2525 704-637-0760 704-290-5100 704-499-9200 919-962-8301 704-687-2213 336-334-5000 704-504-5409 803-777-8176 704-365-1717 704-849-2132 803-323-2186 803-327-8000

Web Site appstate.edu artsinstitutes.edu/charlotte belmontabbeycollege.edu capellauniversity.edu catawba.edu cvcc.edu cpcc.edu cleveland.cc.nc.us davidson.edu keller.edu fuqua.duke.edu elon.edu business.gardner-webb.edu gaston.edu jcsu.edu jwu.edu/charlotte kingscollegecharlotte.edu lrc.edu/bus livingstone.edu mitchellcc.edu montreat.edu ncat.edu ncsu.edu pfeiffer.edu mccollschool.edu rowancabarrus.edu spcc.edu strayer.edu kenan-flagler.unc.edu belkcollege.uncc.edu uncg.edu/bae phoenix.edu mooreschool.sc.edu mba.wfu.edu wingate.edu winthrop.edu yorktech.com

Information on business and continuing education programs in the Charlotte regional marketplace was solicited both directly and extracted from the Web sites of the named schools.

Graduate: M.B.A., M.A.C., I.M.B.A. Adult Learner Program/GOAL: B.S. in accounting, business administration, health management, and management information systems (16 North Carolina locations—online courses available).

Tuition: (Undergraduate) $9,905 per semester (2008-2009); (Adult Learner Program/GOAL) $288 per semester credit hour; (Graduate) $325 per semester credit hour Private [Southern Baptist]; Accreditation: SACS, ACBSP, South Carolina Council for Higher Education Association

Gaston College 201 Highway 321 South Dallas, N.C. 28034 704-922-6200 www.gaston.edu Campus Locations: Dallas, N.C., Lincolnton, N.C. and Belmont, N.C. Distance Education: Interactive video, internet,

32

july 2008

and video/DVD Undergraduate: A.A.S. in accounting, business administration (concentrations include: human resources management and logistics managements, which can be completed through the Fast Track Program in two years attending up to two nights per week), computer information technology, computer programming, information systems security, medical office administration, networking technology, office systems technology (concentrations include: legal), Web technologies, and truck driving training.

Other: Certificate programs in business administration (include human resources management, logistics management, and logistic managementexport operations, computerized accounting, information systems security, information technology—networking, information technology— programming and Web, medical billing and coding, office systems technology (include basic legal and intermediate legal), and medical office

administration—basic and intermediate.

Services to Business and Industry: Continuing education, corporate education (specialized training customized to meet business needs is available), and Career Readiness Certification (CRC, which is a nationally-recognized certification.

Tuition: (In-State): Fewer than 16 semester credit hours—$42.00 per credit; 16 credit hours or more—$672 per semester. (Continuing Education): Fewer than 1 to 10 hours—$50.00 per class, 11 to 30 hours—$55.00 per class, 31 to 100 hours—$60.00 per class, and 100+ hours—$65.00 per class.

Public; Accreditation: SACS, ACBSP

Johnson C. Smith University 100 Beatties Ford Rd. Charlotte, N.C. 28216-5302

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Education Offerings Chart 2008 Pub/Pri Public Proprietary Private Private Private Public Public Public Private Private Private Private Private Public Private Private Private Private Private Public Private Public Public Private Private Public Public Private Public Public Public Private Public Private Private Public Public

Accreditation SACS/AACSB ACICS SACS/NCATE NCA SACS SACS/ACBSP SACS SACS SACS NCA SACS/AACSB SACS/AACSB SACS/ACBSP SACS/ACBSP SACS/ACBSP NEASC ACICS/CAAHEP SACS/ACBSP SACS SACS SACS SACS/AACSB-International SACS/AACSB SACS/IACBE/ACQUIN SACS/ACBSP/AACSB SACS SACS MSA SACS/AACSB SACS/AACSB SACS/AACSB-International NCA/ACBSP SACS/AACSB SACS/AACSB SACS SACS/AACSB SACS/ACBSP/ABET

Undergraduate BS/BA AAS/BA BS/BA BS BS AA/AAS AAS AA/AAS BA BS BS/BA BS BS AAS BS BS/AS AAS BA BS AA/AAS AS/BS BS BS BS BA AA AAS BS/AA BS BS BS/BA BS/AAS BS BS BS/BA/BLS BS/BA AAS

Graduate MBA/MS

Online Yes

MBA/MS/PhD

Yes

MBA Yes Yes MBA MBA/EMBA/PhD MBA/IMBA MBA/IMBA/MAC

Yes Yes Yes Yes

MBA Yes MBA/MSML/MAEd MS MBA/MAC/MS/ME/MA/PhD MBA/MHA/MS PMBA/EMBA

MBA/MS/MIS MBA/EMBA/MAC/PhD IMBA/MBA/MAC/PhD/MS MBA/MS/PhD/MA MBA/MS/PhD MBA/IMBA/MACC/MA/MHR/PhD MS/MBA/EMBA MBA/MAEd/MAT/PharmD MBA/EMBA

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Yes Yes Yes Yes

Special Programs International Studies Certificate program Adult degree program Professional Dev./Certificates Adult BBA program Corporate/Cont. Ed./Certificates Corp./Cont. Ed./Small Bus. Ctr./Certificate Cont. Ed/Cert./Small Bus Ctr./Certificate Economics concentration Undergraduate; Graduate certificates Leadership/Custom Training International Studies Adult BS program Certificate Programs Adult Learning program Daytime business program Diploma program Executive Series/Adult BA prog.

College of Business Corp./Cont. Ed./Small Bus. Ctr. Corporate/Continuing Education/Certificate Entrepreneur/e-business ctr.

McKimmon Ctr./Exec. Education School of Adult Studies McColl Leadership Institute Continuing Education Certificate program Online degrees/certificates OneMBA program/Executive Ed/International Continuing Ed./MBA Plus cert.

Management Dev. Prog./Certificate Professional Development Daniel Managemt Center Fast-track executive program Certificate program Institute of Management Center for Mgmt/Leadership/Certificate

Please send your school updates to editor@greatercharlottebiz.com.

704-378-1010 www.jcsu.edu Undergraduate: B.S. in business administration with concentrations in accounting, banking/finance and management; B.S. in economics with concentration in economics marketing; B.S. in computer science/information systems, computer engineering, and information systems engineering.

Other: Division of Lifelong Learning Adult learning program.

Tuition: $13,361—per academic year (2007-08) Enrollment: 1,500 Private [Presbyterian]; Accreditation: SACS, ACBSP

Charlotte, N.C. 28202 980-598-1000; 866-598-2427 www.jwu.edu/charlotte Undergraduate: A.S.: accounting, business administration, management and marketing; B.S.: accounting, management and marketing; B.S. in colleges of culinary arts and hospitality with variety of concentrations.

Other: Distance education and technical training available.

Tuition: $21,297—College of Business (daytime program) Enrollment: 2,569 Private Accreditation: NEASC

King’s College Johnson & Wales University College of Business Charlotte Campus 901 West Trade St.

322 Lamar Avenue Charlotte, N.C. 28204 800-768-2255; 704-372-0266 www.kingscollegecharlotte.edu

purs uing a bal ance of busines s and life

Undergraduate: A.A.S. in accounting, computer programming, graphic design, legal administrative assistant, medical assisting, network management, office administration, paralegal, travel and tourism management.

Other: Diploma in accounting, administrative assistant, computer specialist, graphic design, legal administrative assistant, medical assisting, travel and tourism.

Tuition: $12,720 full-time, per academic year Enrollment: 450 Private [Proprietary]; Accreditation: ACICS,CAAHEP

Lenoir-Rhyne College Charles M. Snipes School of Business 625 7th Ave. NE Hickory, N.C. 28601-3984 828-328-1741 www.lrc.edu/bus Undergraduate: B.A in accounting, finance,

➤

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international business, management information systems, management, and marketing.

Graduate: M.B.A. with concentrations in accounting, leadership development, global leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Other: Evening College—Adult B.A. programs in management and accounting. Certificates in accounting and in health care administration Executive Education: M.B.A. Foundation Series.

Tuition: (Undergraduate) Full-time 12-21 credit hours day—$11,535 per semester; Part time, 1-11 credits daytime—$960 per semester credit hour, part time lifelong learners program—$360 per semester credit hour; (Graduate M.B.A.) $360 per credit hour Enrollment: 1,626 Private [Lutheran]; Accreditation: SACS (LenoirRhyne), ACBSP (School of Business)

Livingstone College 701 West Monroe St. Salisbury, N.C. 28144-5213 704-216-6000; 800-835-3435 www.livingstone.edu Undergraduate: B.S. degree with programs in accounting, business administration, and computer information systems.

Tuition: Full-time, $10,278.90—per academic year ($428.30 per credit hour part-time Enrollment: 1,100 Private [A.M.E. Zion]; Accreditation: SACS

Mitchell Community College 500 West Broad St. Statesville, N.C. 28677-5264 704-878-3200 Mooresville Campus 219 North Academy Street Mooresville, N.C. 28115 704-663-1923 www.mitchellcc.edu Undergraduate: A.A.S. in business administration, business administration with a marketing and retail concentration, and human services technology; A.A. in pre-business administration, pre-business education, marketing/retail education, internet technology, office systems technology, information systems and computer programming.

Other: Diplomas and certificate courses; continuing education. Small business center.

Distance Education: Internet, video Tuition: (In-State):$42.00 per credit hour or $672 per semester with 16 credit hours and above.

(Out-of-State): $233.30 per credit hour or $3,732.80 per semester with 16 credit hours and above. Subject to change for the 2008/09 academic year.

Enrollment: 2,674 Public; Accreditation: SACS

Montreat College School of Professional and Adult Studies Charlotte Campus 5200-77 Center Drive, Suite 100 Charlotte, N.C. 28217 800-436-2777; 704-357-3390 Asheville Campus 330 Ridgefield Court Asheville, N.C. 28806 828-667-5044 www.montreat.edu Undergraduate: A.S. in business or education; B.S. business administration; B.S. management.

Graduate: M.B.A., M.A.Ed. (Master of Arts in Education, K-6), M.S.M.L. (Master of Science in Management and Leadership).

Other: Certificate in human resources.

Tuition: $9,350 per semester 2008-09 (traditional full-time undergraduate); Adult Studies: A.S., $240/credit hour; B.B.A., B.S.M., $280/credit ➤

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Schools Of Adult and Graduate Studies UPCOMING INFORMATION SESSIONS Charlotte SouthPark • 4701 Park Road Wednesday, July 9th at 6pm Thursday, July 24th at 6pm Tuesday, August 5th at 6pm

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MASTER OF SCIENCE ORGANIZATION DEVELOPMENT

Introducing Charlotte’s Only Master of Science Program in Organization Development (MSOD) The McColl MSOD program is for working professionals who are interested in designing and leading organizational change. The MSOD is a 36-credit hour program. Most classes meet once a week Monday through Thursday evenings (6-8:45pm). The program is flexible - you can finish in as little as two years, or spread out your coursework as appropriate to accommodate your individual circumstances. To learn more, join us for an informational session on Thursday, August 7th at 6:00pm. For information, call 704 337-2224 or visit www.mccollschool.edu.

QUEENS UNIVERSITY OF CHARLOTTE

hour; M.A.Ed., $325/credit hour; M.B.A., M.S.M.L., $340/credit hour Enrollment: 1,048 Private; Accreditation: SACS

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University School of Business and Economics 1601 East Market St. Greensboro, N.C. 27411-0001 336-334-7500 www.ncat.edu Undergraduate: B.S. in accounting, management, marketing, finance, management information systems, business education, economics and transportation Graduate: M.S. in management. Concentration in management information systems, human resources management, and transportation/supply chain management. Master of Arts in teaching business education.

Other: Evening/weekend programs in marketing and management, continuing studies, professional development courses, seminars.

Supply chain management certificate.

Interdisciplinary Center for Entrepreneurship and E-Business.

Distance learning: Online undergraduate and graduate programs in business education Tuition: (Undergraduate) $1,979 (full-time 12+ hours); (Graduate) $2,015 (9+hours) Enrollment: 9,048 undergraduate, 1,450 graduate Public; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB-International

North Carolina State University College of Management Box 7313 Raleigh, N.C. 27695-7313 919-515-2011 www.ncsu.edu Undergraduate: B.S. in economics, accounting, business management and Hamilton Scholars (international studies) Graduate: M.B.A., M.A.C., M.E., Ph.D. economics.

Other: Executive education program/customized programs; McKimmon Center for Extension and Continuing Education.

Tuition: (Undergraduate) $2,558—12+ semester credit hours; (Graduate) $2,818—9+ semester credit hours; (M.A.C.) $5,474—9+ semester credit hours; (M.B.A.) $6,130—9+ semester credit hours (Spring 2008) Enrollment: Undergraduate: 23,730; Graduate: 7,400

Public; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

Pfeiffer University Undergraduate College at Misenheimer 48380 U.S. Hwy. 52 North Misenheimer, N.C. 28109 704-463-1360 www.pfeiffer.edu School of Graduate Studies at Charlotte 4701 Park Road Charlotte, N.C. 28209 704-521-9116 Graduate: M.B.A., M.H.A., M.S. in organizational leadership and change, M.A. in christian education, M.A. in marriage and family therapy, M.A. in teaching, M.S. in elementary education, and dual degrees: M.B.A./M.S. in organizational leadership; M.B.A./ M.H.A. Online: Pfeiffer Online Education is a distancelearning version of the regular graduate courses taught in classrooms.

Tuition: (Graduate) $430—per semester credit hour, $510—per semester credit hour for those classes incorporating online delivery. www.pfeiffer.edu/graduate Pfeiffer University at Lake Norman-Graduate Programs Mount Zion UMC 19600 Zion Street Cornelius, N.C. 28031 704-521-9116 Graduate: M.B.A., M.S. in elementary education.

Tuition: $475 per semester credit for regional and satellite campuses School of Adult Studies at Charlotte 4701 Park Rd. Charlotte, N.C. 28209 704-521-9116 www.pfeiffer.edu/adultstudies Undergraduate: B.S. in business administration, organizational communication, healthcare management, criminal justice, liberal arts, and management information systems.

Online: Pfeiffer Online Education is a distancelearning version of the regular undergraduate courses taught in classrooms.

Tuition: (Adult Studies) $290 full-time, $375 part-time, per semester hour Enrollment: 2,404 (2006-2007) Private [United Methodist]; Accreditation: SACS, IACBE, ACQUIN

Queens University of Charlotte McColl School of Business 1900 Selwyn Ave Charlotte, N.C. 28274-0001 704-337-2525 www.mccollschool.edu Undergraduate: B.A. in business administration; evening program: business administration. ➤

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Graduate: Professional M.B.A., Executive M.B.A., M.S. in organizational development, coaching certification program Other: McColl Executive Leadership Institute— Customized programs.

Tuition: (Undergraduate) $22,068 per academic year (2008-09); (Undergraduate Evening) $335 per credit hour; (Graduate) Professional M.B.A. $750 per credit hour, Executive M.B.A., $59,000 all-inclusive tuition for two-year program; Master of Science in organizational development, $750 per credit hour; Coaching certification program, $750 per credit hour Private [Presbyterian]; Accreditation: SACS, ACBSP, AACSB

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College North Campus – Rowan County 1333 Jake Alexander Blvd. South Salisbury, N.C. 28146-8357 704-637-0760 South Campus – Cabarrus County 1531 Trinity Church Rd. Concord, NC 28027-7601 704-788-3197 www.rowancabarrus.edu Undergraduate: A.A.S. pre-business administration, business education and marketing; diploma and certificate programs in accounting, business administration, marketing, and information systems, certificate programs in business technologies; industrial and engineering technologies; and health and public services technologies.

Other: Continuing education and work force development programs; distance learning via Internet, televised interactive television courses.

Tuition: $42.00 per credit; 16 semester credit hours or more—$672 per semester (2007-2008) Public; Accreditation: SACS

South Piedmont Community College Old Charlotte Highway Campus 4209 Old Charlotte Highway Monroe, N.C. 28110-7333 704-290-5100 www.spcc.edu Campus Locations: Old Charlotte Highway Campus, Monroe, N.C.; L. L. Polk Campus, Polkton, N.C.; and Lockhart-Taylor Center, Wadesboro, N.C. Undergraduate: A.A.S., certificates and diplomas in accounting, business administration (a concentration in e-commerce is available), and information systems, advertising and graphic design, office systems technology.

Other: Distance learning via Internet, televised and videotaped courses available.

Tuition: $42.00 per credit; 16 semester credit hours or more—$672 per semester Public; Accreditation: SACS

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Strayer University Huntersville Campus 13620 Reese Boulevard, Ste. 130 Huntersville, N.C. 28078 704-379-6800 North Charlotte Campus 8335 IBM Dr., Ste. 150 Charlotte, N.C. 28262-4329 704-717-2380 South Charlotte Campus 9101 Kings Parade Boulevard Charlotte, N.C. 28273-3423 704-499-9200 www.strayer.edu Undergraduate: A.A. in accounting, business administration, economics, general studies, information systems, and marketing; B.S. in accounting, economics, information systems, and international business.

Graduate: M.B.A., M.S.I., M.S., health services administration, public administration, education and accounting.

Executive Graduate Certificate: Business administration, computer information systems and accounting.

Strayer University Online: Same as listed above Tuition: (Undergraduate) $1,355 per course fulltime, $1,430 per course part-time (under 13 credits); (Graduate) $1,835 per course Private; Accreditation: MSA

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UNC Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler Business School Campus Box 3490, McColl Building Chapel Hill, N.C. 27599-3490 919-962-8301 www.kenan-flagler.unc.edu Undergraduate: B.S. in business administration.

Graduate: M.A.C., M.B.A., M.B.A. for Executives (weekend, evening and OneMBA program).

Ph.D. business administration with accounting, finance, marketing, operations, technology & innovation management, organizational behavior and strategy concentrations.

Other: Executive Development (Custom and open enrollment programs for organizations and individuals). Custom programs are designed for companies with specific development needs/objectives. Open enrollment programs range from two days to two weeks in length and cover topics such as general management, finance, leadership, negotiations, human resources and innovation for individual development.

Tuition: 2008-2009. (Undergraduate) in-state $3,705; out-of-state $20,603; (Graduate) Master of Accounting (M.A.C.) in-state $18,584; outof-state $34,317, full-time M.B.A. in-state $22,376; out-of-state $41,900, Evening executive M.B.A. $65,000, Weekend executive ➤

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M.B.A. $79,800 entire program, OneMBA program $91,300; Ph.D. business administration $4,613 - $18,611 with $20,000 stipend package.

Enrollment: University 28,136 (total); 17,628 (undergrad); 10,508 (graduate) Public; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

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UNC Charlotte The Belk College of Business 9201 University City Blvd.

Charlotte, N.C. 28223-0001 704-687-2213 (Graduate Admissions) 800-232-8441 (Undergraduate Admissions) 704-687-7577 (College Switchboard) www.belkcollege.uncc.edu Undergraduate: B.S. business administration with majors in finance (opt. concentration in risk management and insurance); industrial and operations management; international business; management (opt. concentration in managerial leadership); management information systems; and marketing; B.S. accounting; B.S. economics (liberal arts or business administration emphasis).

Graduate: Charlotte-based programs include M.Acc. (accountancy), M.B.A. (full- or part-time program with concentrations available in applied investment management, business finance, economics, financial institutions/commercial banking, information and technology management, international business, management; M.S. economics; M.S. mathematical finance; Ph.D. business administration with finance major. Global programs include dual-degree M.B.A. in Monterrey, Mexico; executive M.B.A. in Tapei, Taiwan; M.B.A. in Hong Kong; dual-degree M.S. economics in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Other: M.B.A. Plus certificate; graduate certificate in real estate finance and development Undergraduate Tuition: Tuition rates for 200809 not yet established. 2007-08 tuition fees were $2,076.50 per semester for full-time (12+ semester hours) N.C. residents; $7,282.50 per semester for full-time non-residents.

Graduate Tuition: Varies by program and student’s course load. studentaccounts.uncc.edu/ tuitionandfees.html Total school enrollment: Fall 2007—22,300 (University); 3,343 (Belk College) Public; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

UNC Greensboro

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Bryan School of Business and Economics Post Office Box 26165 Greensboro, N.C. 27402 336-334-5000 www.uncg.edu/bae www.mybryanmba.com Undergraduate: B.S. degrees in accounting, finance,

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business administration, marketing, economics, information systems & operations management, accounting & information systems, international business studies. B.A. degree in economics.

Graduate: M.B.A. (day & evening programs), M.S. in accounting, information technology & management; M..A. in applied economics; Ph.D. in information systems, economics.

Dual Degrees: M.B.A./M.S.—nursing & M.B.A./M.S.—gerontology.

Post-Master’s Certificates: Financial Analysis, International Business, Management, Information Technology.

Tuition: (In-State) Tuition for 12 credit hours— $2,458 per semester (undergraduate), $3,046.50 per semester (graduate) Total school enrollment: 17,157 (2,686 Bryan School) Public; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB International

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University of Phoenix Charlotte Campus 3800 Arco Corporate Drive Charlotte, N.C. 28273 704-504-5409 www.phoenix.edu Undergraduate: A.A.S. in accounting, business and general studies; B.S. in business administration, communications, and management.

Graduate: M.B.A., M.S. computer information systems; Ph.D. business administration management in organizational leadership.

Other: Campus-based and online programs and professional development programs.

Tuition: Varies by location/program of study Enrollment: Over 215,000 Private; Accreditation: NCA, ACBSP

USC Columbia Moore School of Business University of South Carolina 1705 College St. Columbia, S.C. 29208-0001 803-777-3176 www.sc.edu www.mooreschool.sc.edu Undergraduate: B.S. business administration.

Graduate: I.M.B.A; Executive I.M.B.A; Professional M.B.A.; M.A.C.C., M.A. in economics, M.H.R., Ph.D. in economics, Ph.D. in business administration.

Other: Executive Education—custom programs with an emphasis on large-scale management and leadership programs. Internet, satellite television and interactive audio distance learning.

Tuition: (Undergraduate) $7,946 per academic year for S.C. residents, $21,232 for non-S.C. residents; (Graduate) I.M.B.A. $17,500 annual program fee for S.C. residents, $26,000 annual program fee for non-S.C. residents; M.A.C.C. ➤

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TOPIC 2008:

VALUE BUILDERS… VALUE BUSTERS!

Upcoming MEETINGS

You know you need to spend time working “ON” your business, not just “IN” it. You may have wondered how you could find the time with all you have to juggle.

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Learn how to increase the value of your business by developing a good management team, improving your sales and marketing, using technology wisely and practicing sound financial management.

Aug. 26, 2008 Oct. 28, 2008

VALUE BUILDERS

$11,130 program fee for S.C. residents and $18,660 for non-S.C. residents; M.H.R. $18,865—$21,560 program fee for S.C. residents, $28,050—$34,540 for non-S.C. residents; M.A. in Economics $10,120 program fee for S.C. residents, $18,700 program fee for non-S.C. residents; Professional M.B.A. program $450 per credit hour for S.C. residents,$500 per credit hour for non-S.C. residents, plus a $17 per credit hour technology fee; Executive I.M.B.A. $39,000 program fee, full-time doctorate $3,445 per semester Enrollment: USC Columbia 27,272; Moore School 3,902 Public; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

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Wayne Calloway School of Business and Accountancy (Undergraduate & Masters of Science in Accountancy) Babcock Graduate School of Management (M.B.A & M.A. in Management) 1834 Wake Forest Rd. Winston-Salem, N.C. 27106-8758 336-758-5422 www.wfu.edu Babcock Graduate School of Management-Charlotte campus (MBA programs) One Morrocroft Centre 6805 Morrison Blvd., Suite 150 Charlotte, N.C. 28211 888-WAKE-MBA; 704-365-1717 Calloway School of Business (Undergraduate): B.S. in business, finance, mathematical business, accounting; (Graduate): M.S. accountancy Babcock Graduate School of Management: Fulltime M.B.A., fast-track executive M.B.A., Evening M.B.A., Saturday M.B.A., Masters of Arts in Management Tuition: Calloway: (Undergraduate) Full-time— $36,560 per academic year, (Graduate) Fulltime—$29,190 per academic year. Babock: (Graduate) Full-time M.B.A.—$35,000 per year, Executive Fast Track M.B.A.—$67,000 full program cost, Winston-Salem Evening M.B.A— $63,996, Charlotte Evening program—$63,996, Charlotte Saturday M.B.A.—$63,996, MA in Management—$37,000 Graduate: Evening M.B.A.; Saturday M.B.A. Enrollment: 6,379 Private; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

Wingate University School of Business Post Office Box 159 Wingate, N.C. 28174-9905 800-755-5550 www.wingate.edu Undergraduate: B.A., B.S. Graduate: Physician assistant studies. Pharm.D.

42

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Tuition: $18,300 (undergrad) Private; Accreditation: SACS Metro Campus Wingate University School of Graduate and Adult Education 110 Matthews Station St., Ste. 2D Matthews, N.C. 28105 704-849-2132 www.metro.wingate.edu Undergraduate: B.L.S. with emphasis in business administration, human services, organizational communication and public safety.

Graduate: M.B.A. and M.A.Ed, M.A.T. Other: Principal licensure, AIG licensure Tuition: $260 per credit hour; M.B.A.: $400 per credit hour; ,MAED: $210 per credit hour Enrollment: 1,799 Private; Accreditation: SACS

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Winthrop University 209 Thurmond Rock Hill, S.C. 29733-0001 803-323-2186 www.winthrop.edu Undergraduate: B.S. business administration, computer science, information design; B.A. economics.

Graduate: M.B.A. business administration, accounting emphasis, executive program, finance concentration, international concentration, software development.

Other: Certificate program in software project management.

Tuition: (Undergraduate) in-state full-time $5,105 per semester; (Graduate) full-time $4,574 per semester, Executive M.B.A. $5,375 per semester Enrollment: 6,382 Public; Accreditation: SACS, AACSB

York Technical College 452 South Anderson Rd. Rock Hill, S.C. 29730-7318 803-327-8000 www.yorktech.com Undergraduate: A.A.S. degree offered in the following areas: university transfer, technical, and occupational; custom-designed continuing education for business and industry.

Other: Online degrees and certificates available; heavy equipment operator training; line worker training; 3D Systems University; Institute for Manufacturing Productivity.

Tuition: Full-time, $1,494 per semester (incounty); $1,656 per semester (out-of-county); $3,432 (out-of-state); Part-time $125 per credit hour (in-county); $138 per credit hour (out-ofcounty); $286 per credit hour (out-of-state) Enrollment: 6,500 credit students and 9,000 continuing education students Public; Accreditation: SACS, ACBSP, ABET biz

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Need a Better Business Phone Service?

IT’S NOT THAT BIG OF A LEAP. When you switch to Business Class Phone from

Time Warner Cable Business Class, you benefit from one provider dedicated to your business. Count on us for local support, the convenience of one bill and one flat rate. To save even more, add our High-speed Internet or Video services to your Business Class Phone service. Put your business on solid ground.

Take the leap to better business phone service today.

Call 1-877-TWC-B2BØ or visit www.carolinas.twcbc.com © 2008 Time Warner Cable. All rights reserved. Business Class Phone does not include back-up power and should there be a power outage, Business Class Phone, including the ability to access 911 services, may not be available. Additional charges apply for taxes, fees, Directory Assistance, Operator Services and calls to international locations. Products and services not available in all areas.