MBJ_BPTW—JULY27-2018

www.msbusiness.com • July 27, 2018

2018

SPONSORED BY

SPECIAL MAGAZINE EDITION: » INCLUDES EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TRAINING FOCUS

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Yazoo City Nitrogen Complex 4608 Highway 49 East Yazoo City, MS 39194 662.746.4131 www.cямБndustries.com

FROM THE EDITOR

Rating the healthiest workplaces in Mississippi

T

his issue of the Mississippi Business Journal is dedicated to the Healthiest Workplaces of Mississippi.

This event dates back to 2005, beginning with a simple idea — to develop an awards program that honors those businesses in Mississippi that go the extra mile in providing their employees with the finest possible workplace and work experience.

Ross Reily What made this concept unique was how the companies would be ranked. It was decided early on that the very best source for the judging would be the companies’ employees themselves. As managers and owners, we all of course like to feel that we’re one of Mississippi’s best employers, but that feeling means a lot more when our employees and associates agree. That would clearly be a true measure of just how effective our companies are at providing a safe, productive, worker-friendly environment.

These honorees range from small to mega-large businesses, and looking at those who are ga.

Our special thanks to Research Logics for their work in conducting and tabulating the surveys for

A member of the Mississippi Press Association www.mspress.org

200 North Congress, Suite 400 Jackson, MS 39201-1902 Main: (601) 364-1000 Faxes: Advertising (601) 364-1007; Circulation (601) 364-1035 E-mails: mbj@msbusiness.com, ads@msbusiness.com, photos@msbusiness.com, research@msbusiness.com, events@msbusiness.com

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.com • July 27, 2018

ALAN TURNER Publisher alan.turner@msbusiness.com • 364-1021

2018

Best Places to Work. As you know, you’ll receive a special report on the results for your company.

Having said all of that, the MBJ’s Healthiest Workplaces edition is not all you will be seeing in this edition.

We also have a regular Focus of the MBJ, which this week is a on education in Mississippi as we take a look at Delta State President Bill LaForge who is leading the small university to huge achievements in Cleveland.

And then there is the list. One of the things the MBJ is known for is its lists. We print a business list associated with almost every Focus we print in each edition.

There is also lots going on in the typical business world and we aren’t letting that slip through the cracks.

You are still getting the best business news from the only fulltime, state-wide business publication in Mississippi, This includes, stories, profiles, newsmakers, lists, ribbon cuttings, columns and more.

TAMI JONES Associate Publisher tami.jones@msbusiness.com • 364-1011

SPONSORED BY

SPECIAL MAGAZIN E EDIT

» INCLUDES EDUCAT ION: ION & WORKFORCE TRAINING FOCUS

» Contact Mississippi Business Journal editor Ross Reily at ross. reily@msbusiness.com or (601) 364-1018.

SELECTION PROCESS: Best Places to Work recognizes area companies on the employees’ perceptions of their workplaces. Eligible companies must have a human resources office in Mississippi and have operated here for at least one year. Rankings are based on results of questionnaires returned by the nominees, as well as a sampling of employees. Research and selections are completed independently by Research Logics for the MBJ.

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Website: www.msbusiness.com July 27, 2018 Volume 40, Number 30

ROSS REILY Editor ross.reily@msbusiness.com • 364-1018 JACK WEATHERLY Staff Writer jack.weatherly@msbusiness.com • 364-1016 TACY RAYBURN Production Manager tacy.rayburn@msbusiness.com • 364-1019 CHARINA RHODES Circulation Manager charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com • 364-1045 MARCIA THOMPSON-KELLY Business Assistant marcia.kelly@msbusiness.com • 364-1044 FRANK BROWN List Researcher frank.brown@msbusiness.com • 364-1022 Subscription Services (601) 364-1000 subscriptions@msbusiness.com Mississippi Business Journal (USPS 000-222) is published weekly with one annual issue by MSBJ 200 N. Congress St., Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201. Periodicals postage paid at Jackson, MS. Subscription rates: 1 year $109; 2 years $168; and 3 years $214.

To place orders, temporarily stop service, change your address or inquire about billing: Phone: (601) 364-1000, Fax: (601) 364-1035, Email: charina.rhodes@msbusiness.com, Mail: MS Business Journal Subscription Services, 200 N.Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mississippi Business Journal, Circulation Manager, 200 North Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201 To submit subscription payments: Mail: MS Business Journal Subscriptions Services, 200 North Congress Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201.

No material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent. Editorial and advertising material contained in this publication is derived from sources considered to be reliable, but the publication cannot guarantee their accuracy. Nothing contained herein should be construed as a solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities.

It is the policy of this newspaper to employ people on the basis of their qualifications and with assurance of equal opportunity and treatment regardless of race, color, creed, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or handicap.

The Mississippi Business Journal, is an affiliate of Journal Publishing Company (JPC), Inc. Entire contents copyrighted © 2018 by Journal Inc. All rights reserved.

Mississippi Business Journal – 3

Mississippi Business Journal July 27, 2018 Volume 40, Number 30

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2018 CLASS Asset Engineering ............................................................................. 25 Atmos Energy Corp (Large Category Third Place). ..................................9 BKD CPAs & Advisors ....................................................................... 18 Blacklidge Emulsions, Inc. (Medium Category First Place)..................... 14 Bradley Arant Boult Cummings (Medium Category Third Place) .............15 Brown Bottling Group ....................................................................... 10 CF Industries ..................................................................................... 11 Copeland and Johns, Inc. ................................................................. 22 Cosmich Simmons & Brown, PLLC (Small Category First Place) ............26 EMI Staffing, Inc. (Small Category Third Place) .................................... 23 First Federal Savings & Loan Association (Medium Category Second Place) .... 14 Fisher Brown Bottell Insurance ..........................................................20 Guaranty Bank and Trust (Large Category First Place) ............................8 Haddox Reid Eubank Betts, PLLC .......................................................17 Harrah’s Gulf Coast (Mega-Large Category First Place) ...........................6 Infusion Plus ....................................................................................26 Ivey Mechanical (Large Category Second Place)......................................8 Jones Companies (Mega-Large Category Second Place) ..........................6 Maron Marvel Bradley Anderson & Tardy ...........................................20 May & Company ............................................................................... 24 Medical Solutions ............................................................................. 27 Navigator Credit Union ......................................................................21 Next Gear Solutions .......................................................................... 16 Origin Bank ...................................................................................... 16 Payment Alliance International .......................................................... 24 Puckett Machinery Company ..............................................................12 R.J. Allen & Associates Inc. (Small Category Second Place) .................. 22 Riverwalk Casino & Hotel ...................................................................12 Ross and Yerger Insurance, Inc. ......................................................... 18 SchoolStatus .................................................................................... 27 Silas Simmons, LLP ..........................................................................28 Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company ................................... 7 Southern Pipe Supply ....................................................................... 10 Synergetics DCS ...............................................................................29 Tempstaff .........................................................................................28 The Solutions Team Inc.....................................................................29 Tindall Corporation ........................................................................... 19 Viking Range (Mega-Large Category Third Place) ................................... 7

4 – Mississippi Business Journal

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FOCUS ON Education & Workforce Training » Workforce training especially important in period of low unemployment ....................................................... 30-31 » PROFILE: LaForge leads DSU into the future ............. 33-35 LIST » Colleges and Universities ................................................36 www.msbusiness.com

CATEGORY: MEGA-LARGE FIRST PLACE

Harrah’s Gulf Coast

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arrah’s Gulf Coast is an intimate resort and casino vacation destination centrally located in South Mississippi on the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. It inspires grown-ups to play by creating memorable experiences at its casino, hotel, spa, golf course and restaurants. Its award winning teams of employees strive every day to offer its guests a relaxing, comfortable experience where they can play as hard as they want or relax as much as they need.

It lives by three pillars within its Code of Commitment: People — Supporting the well-being of its team members, guests and local communities; Planet — Caring for our planet, so the guests don’t need to worry and Play — Creating memorable experiences for its team members and guests and lending responsible gaming practices

int he industry.

Caesars Entertainment Corporation is the world’s most geographically diversified casino-entertainment company. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, more than 79 years ago, Caesars has grown through development of new resorts, expansions and acquisitions, and now operates casinos on three continents.

SECOND PLACE

Jones Companies

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ones Companies is a best place to work because of their employees. Jones promotes personal and professional growth through free boot camps, book clubs lead by leadership, lunch and learns, internships, as well as ample continuing education opportunities designed to empower employees to achieve mental, physical, nutritional, and financial excellence.

Jones Companies was founded in 1949 as a small lumber business in south Mississippi. During several logging expeditions, a need emerged for temporary access ways to transport heavy equipment through wetlands. This prompted the design of construction mats, which then led to the discovery and development of products and services for the energy industry, as well as other related businesses.

6 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

Today, Jones is comprised of ten privately owned entities serving a variety of industries and end markets including: lumber, construction mats, pipeline materials, fuel, storage containers, logistics and recycling.

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CATEGORY: MEGA-LARGE THIRD PLACE

Viking Range

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roducing the world’s most sought-after luxury kitchen appliances in Mississippi has earned Viking Range status as an American icon. After all, the Greenwood company’s success spawned The Alluvian Hotel and Spa and the famous Viking Range cooking schools. Founded by Fred Carl, Jr. in the 1980s, Viking Range was sold to The Middleby Corporation in 2012.

However, the company has continued its aggressive new product development initiatives and has expanded with offerings that encompass the entire kitchen, both indoors and outdoors.

Since the acquisition, Viking Range has introduced more than 60 new products that incorporate proven commercial kitchen technology from Middleby into the Viking residential line, further enabling true restaurant results in a home kitchen.

The company provides top-notch employee benefits, including an on-site health clinic and generous employee product discounts.

Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Co.

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outhern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, chartered in 1946, began operations January 2, 1947, as a capital stock life insurance company. Today our organization has branched into cities and towns all over the South. As a result of our dedication to quality service, Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance has grown in strength and stability.

The mission of the company is to be the life insurance company of choice for the Farm Bureau family. The focus is to provide competitive products and superior customer service to the Farm Bureau policyholders and agents, while observing the highest ethical standards.

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2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 7

CATEGORY: LARGE FIRST PLACE

Guaranty Bank and Trust

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uaranty Bank and Trust is a community bank which values its most important asset, its employees. Celebrating its high-performing team is important.

Important enough, that it closes its bank branches early twice a year to reward and celebrate individual and team successes. Guaranty Bank is dedicated to acknowledging each goal reached by its employees by recognizing leadership and positive actions and creating a warm environment.

Locally-owned and operated since 1943, Guaranty Bank delivers top-notch services and products to Mississippi and the surrounding areas. With humble beginnings, Guaranty Bank has grown from offering only the basic banking services and products to serving customers with a comprehensive, complete line of expertise and products only expected at much larger institutions. We are proud to be your local, big-time

bank!

As a responsible leader in economic development, it strives to be an instrumental member of its local communities through its actions and the involvement of its employees.

SECOND PLACE

Ivey Mechanical

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vey’s Plumbing and Electrical Company was founded in 1947 by Mr. Kermit Ivey in Kosciusko, where it still is today. The small repair shop focused on residential and small commercial construction. The company continued on a steady growth pattern with annual sales that approached a half-million dollars by 1958.

It was in this year that the founder’s son, Marlin, joined the partnership with his father. The partnership was based upon an agreement to shift the marketing focus from residential to commercial projects.

That has grown to what is there today with more than a thousand employees in 11 locations throughout the Southeast. Of those employees, more than 90 have been with the company for 25 years or more.

8 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

Ivey offers its employees a 401k plan valued over $30 million; Over $550,000 given to employees in need by employee-funded benevolence fund. Ivey is an Accredited Training Sponsor with NCCER. Management training involves 200 managers and focuses on client and employee relations, prefabrication, safety and productivity.

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CATEGORY: LARGE THIRD PLACE

Atmos Energy Corp.

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tmos Energy Corporation, headquartered in Dallas, is the country’s largest, fully-regulated, natural-gas-only distributor, serving over three million natural gas distribution customers in over 1,400 communities in eight states from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the East to the Rocky Mountains in the West. Atmos Energy also manages company-owned natural gas pipeline and storage assets, including one of the largest intrastate natural gas pipeline systems in Texas.

Atmos delivers safe, clean, reliable, efficient, affordable and abundant natural gas — America’s best energy source. It’s also investing billions

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of dollars in new pipelines to ensure we’re the nation’s safest natural gas provider.

Over the past 150 years, more than 250 corporate entities have come together to form what is today one name with one team — Atmos Energy.

2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 9

CATEGORY: LARGE

Southern Pipe Supply

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t Southern Pipe & Supply, employees are called ‘family members’ and offered the opportunity to ‘live the pipe dream’.

Since 1938, the Meridian company has been redefining the plumbing supply industry’s idea of how to do business, placing their emphasis on customer service and creating opportunities for the Southern Pipe team. In fact, the company culture is rooted in relationships and doing what’s best for clients, vendors and ‘family members’.

Today, Southern Pipe is one of the nation’s largest privately-held, independent wholesalers of plumbing, heating and air conditioning , water and sewer, and industrial materials. The company operates 102 branches in seven states, and its state-

of-the-art Central Distribution Center processes nearly four million items annually. Southern Pipe employs more than 800 “family members”, with approximately 260 of those working in Mississippi.

Brown Bottling Group

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rown Bottling Group’s vision is to be the best of the best, contributing to the success of all stakeholders: its team, customers, suppliers/partners, owners, communities and consumers. Employees become part of the Brown Bottling family when they join the team, and there are several employees who have been part of the Brown Bottling family for more than 30 years. Brown Bottling Group employees also enjoy a generous benefits package.

In 1971, Ken Brown purchased the franchise rights to Dr Pepper and Pepsi products for 29 counties, covering Jackson, Meridian, and Hattiesburg. In 1989, Brown Bottling Group expanded to cover McComb and Natchez, adding 16 more counties to the company’s service area. As a

10 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

third-generation, family-owned business, Ken’s son Bill Brown currently serves as the President and CEO of Brown Bottling Group, and Bill’s daughter Shelley Brown Floyd currently serves as Executive Vice President.

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CATEGORY: LARGE

CF Industries

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alues are at the heart of everything CF Industries does. They are more than just expectations. It puts safety first.

Its skilled and experienced workforce is one of its greatest assets. CF Industries is transforming natural gas into nitrogen, helping feed crops that feed the world and support a cleaner and healthier future.

CF Industries’s employees enjoy top-of-theline benefit coverage at highly competitive prices.

When you join CF you have access to programs that support your health, financial security and retirement goals. It offers health care, disability, life insurance, pension plan and 401k. Other employee benefits include: Paid vacation, person-

al day and holidays, flexible spending accounts and health and wellness initiatives. CF Industries celebrates the milestones with a service award program.

Fresh support served daily.

The Mississippi Business Journal (MBJ) is something to shout about.

We’re honored to back organizations that strive to make our communities better places to live, work and play.

BKD is proud to be recognized by the MBJ as part of the 2018 class of Best Places to Work.

Everyone needs a trusted advisor.

Who’s yours?

601.948.6700 | bkd.com

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2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 11

CATEGORY: LARGE

Puckett Machinery Company

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ottom line, it’s the Puckett family’s dedication to their customers, employees, and the communities they serve that makes the difference. They set the example for the Company’s core values of integrity, teamwork, excellence, and commitment. Puckett Machinery’s family-oriented company culture is best defined as “genuinely nice people who go the extra mile to serve their customers and support their co-workers in times of need”.

Puckett Machinery Company is a Mississippi born and bred family business with deep roots in the Caterpillar heavy equipment brand and a rich legacy of dedication to the customers and the local communities they serve.

Riverwalk Casino & Hotel

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iverwalk Casino Hotel opened in October 2008 under the ownership of Rush Street Gaming, LLC. Riverwalk was acquired by Churchill Downs, Inc., in 2012. CDI is a publically traded company that has evolved from one world-famous venue in Central Kentucky to the United States’ premier racing , gaming and entertainment company with a myriad of holdings.

Riverwalk Casino Hotel promotes teamwork and communication through our open door policy and its Ambassador Roundtable Program. The diversity and talent of its workforce is one of our greatest strengths. The company offers a work setting where everyone is treated fairly and with respect and dignity. It is committed to giving back to its community.

12 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

Riverwalk Casino Hotel is committed to being the “premier place to play” and the “preferred place to work” in Vicksburg. It is a happy team.

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Our Employees MAKE the difference!

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CATEGORY: MEDIUM FIRST PLACE

Blacklidge Emulsions, Inc.

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lacklidge (Emulsions) was founded in 1990 by Ronnie Blacklidge, Sr. However, the Blacklidge family has been involved in road construction since the inception of Harrison County Sand & Gravel Company in the 1930’s, which supplied concrete materials for the original construction of Highway 90 in Mississippi.

Blacklidge Emulsions’ first product was an asphalt emulsion that was used to control dust on unpaved surfaces and also as a prime coat. Blacklidge patented this asphalt emulsion and named it EPR-1 Prime. This product became the DOT standard in Mississippi and other neighboring states in the South. The success of this innovative product allowed for investment into the production of other products including SS-1 (Tack Coat)

and CRS-2/2P (Chip seal emulsion).

Over the years, Blacklidge expanded its manufacturing capabilities with facilities throughout the Southeast, including a multi-million dollar asphalt testing laboratory called BETA. Today, the company continues to innovate and has been awarded multiple patents for its products.

SECOND PLACE

First Federal Savings & Loan Association

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ong-term relationships with both customers and employees are the bedrock of First Federal Savings & Loan Association. Making decisions that are best for both fosters a positive and successful work environment, according to First Federal management. With 57 full-time team members, the average employee tenure is 15 years. Founded in Pascagoula and Moss Point in the mid-1950s, the institution has grown to over $285 million in assets with six branches serving south Mississippi.

For sixty years, the corporate strategy at First Federal remains the same – know the customer, provide sound products and always strive to exceed the customer’s expectations. Providing unmatched service on mortgage loans and deposit accounts, and residential lending is First Federal’s

14 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

specialty. Active in its Gulf Coast communities, First Federal supports the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, and the United Way.

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CATEGORY: MEDIUM THIRD PLACE

Bradley Arant Boult Cummings

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radley places a premium on good communication and creating a work environment where everyone feels valued. We offer the ability to work on interesting matters, and we emphasize integrity, relationships, diversity, inclusion and mutual respect in the workplace. Our attorneys and staff enjoy a supportive work atmosphere that encourages employee feedback and charitable involvement in the local community.

Bradley’s Jackson office joined the law firm in April 2001 as the first Bradley location outside of Alabama.

We offer a full range of legal services for our clients, largely focused on construction, litigation, healthcare, insurance, life sciences, labor and employment, real estate, banking and financial services, environmental, product liability, and class actions. Its attorneys have earned a sterling reputation in Mississippi’s capital for exceptional client service, integrity, and dedication to their community.

The Jackson office is a proud sponsor of the Inter-

national Ballet Competition, which comes to our city every four years. We also support the Mississippi Museum of Art and Women’s Foundation of Mississippi, and recently made a five-year pledge to the new Mississippi History and Civil Rights Museum.

Keeping with its commitment to embracing diversity and providing opportunities for the next generation of lawyers, we sponsor the R. Jess Brown Scholarship for Leadership in Racial Reconciliation at the Mississippi College School of Law and the William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation Scholarship at the University of Mississippi School of Law.

SHARON, DEALER | 20 YEARS

Thank you to our staff of more than 700 memory makers who helped name Harrah’s Gulf Coast the best place to work in Mississippi.

Great guest customer service starts with creating a great work environment. We strive to treat our staff as family, promote their ideas, foster teamwork and always have good communication.

We couldn’t provide superior service without you.

Thank you for all you do.

#AlwaysHarrahsGC

HarrahsGulfCoast.com

Must be 21 or older to gamble. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem?

Call 1-800-BETS-OFF (In Iowa) or 1-800-522-4700 (National). ©2018, Caesars License Company, LLC.

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2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 15

CATEGORY: MEDIUM

Next Gear Solutions

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fter starting in 2008 as a consulting company to the restoration industry with only 3 employees, Next Gear recognized a lack of technology options for its clients managing their jobs and contacts.

It launched our its software, DASH, in 2009.

After selling our products to a few franchisors in our industry, it quickly became one of the leaders in restoration job and workflow management software. Because of its dedication to not only innovative software but also excellent customer service, Next Gear grew exponentially in the following years in software solutions, customers, and employees. In 2016 Next Gear announced both an investment by a private equity firm and the first acquisition of a competing software company.

2017 saw two more acquisitions of industry software companies, and our 4th acquisition just took place in early 2018. Next Gear now has more than 150 employees with the majority located in our home office in Oxford

Origin Bank

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rigin Bank is a 106 year old, Louisiana chartered bank, which provides a wide range of traditional banking services.

Since its founding in 1912, the bank has been committed to serving and helping its communities grow and prosper. With a philosophy and Brand Promise of making every customer feel like the only customer every time, the bank provides a unique brand of personalized, relationship banking to an ever-expanding list of customers and communities. The emphasis on the Origin Bank Culture is what continues to separate it from competitors in the markets it serves, helps it to attract the top bankers in its footprint, and enables it to provide an unmatched banking experience for our customers.

In keeping with our culture, this year it created the Origin Experience Strategy Team, a non-executive team of employees representing all depart-

16 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

ments and markets to bring together ideas from across the organization to renew purpose, passion, productivity, performance and profitability, with the focus on the customer’s experience being the product.

Origin Bank has more than 40 banking centers in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. Origin Bancorp, Inc., the financial holding company for Origin Bank, began trading its common stock on the Nasdaq Global Sector Market on May 9, 2018.

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CATEGORY: MEDIUM

Haddox Reid Eubank Betts, PLLC

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addox Reid Eubank Betts believes wholeheartedly in the concept of community. A Jackson CPA firm offering assurance, tax, consulting , peer review and client accounting services to individuals, privately held businesses, non-profits and governmental entities, Haddox Reid recently raised $1,000 for We Will Go Ministries.

During the always-stressful tax season, the firm is known to host Bake-Off competitions, where employees can submit their best recipes for cakes, pies, candies and other sweets. Additionally, the firm has an annual Appreciation Celebration to thank employees for their diligent work during tax season.

With over a half century of continuous oper-

ation in Jackson, Haddox Reid serves some of Mississippi’s leading companies but also enjoys a reputation as a small but personable firm for the individual client. In addition to 14 partners, the firm also employs 50 managers, staff accountants and support personnel.

We owe our success to a century of great employees.

At Atmos Energy, our employees are what makes us a great company. They create a culture of caring, teamwork and dedication. This spirit of service has worked for us for more than 100 years. This family of great people is your natural gas company.

Thanks to our employees for making us a finalist in the 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi.

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2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 17

CATEGORY: MEDIUM

Ross and Yerger Insurance, Inc.

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he name Ross & Yerger is synonymous with insurance in Jackson. Since the mid-1800s, the firm has earned a solid reputation as an independent insurance firm that delivers quality customer service.

For generations, dedicated professionals have labored under the Ross & Yerger brand to help the Jackson-based agency become a leader in both the insurance industry and the community. The firm is 100 percent employee-owned and 401 (k) Match Contributions are made in the form of company stock. This creates a family environment, where employees have one goal and are in it together.

The company provides an on-site exercise room, and all employees are given 30 minutes two days a week during business hours to visit the

exercise room or go for a walk. Ross & Yerger also offer quarterly stress management seminars to help team members better manage both personal and work-related stress.

BKD CPAs & Advisors

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ive years after World War I, three enterprising CPAs opened Baird, Kurtz & Dobson with $1,700 in the bank. Today, BKD is one of the largest CPA firms in the U.S. with 37 offices in 16 states and serving clients in all 50 states and internationally.

In 2008, BKD acquired three local accounting firms in Jackson, Mississippi: Smith, Turner & Reeves; Johnson, Bruce & Host and Shearer, Taylor & Co.. In doing so, BKD became the second-largest CPA and advisory firm in Jackson and the third-largest in Mississippi. BKD Mississippi is led by Managing Partner, Peder Johnson.

BKD CPAs & Advisors is ranked as the 12th largest firm by revenue on Inside Public Accounting’s list of Top 25 Firms in 2017.

18 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

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CATEGORY: MEDIUM

Tindall Corporation

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indall Corporation got its start in 1932 as a small concrete manufacturing business based out of Spartanburg, South Carolina. When the Lowndes family purchased Tindall in 1963, it had six employees and primarily manufactured concrete utility pipes.

Today, Tindall Corporation is one of the largest precast, prestressed concrete manufacturers in the United States with over 1,200 employees across five facilities in five states.

Tindall’s Mississippi Division celebrated the 10th anniversary of their new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility this year. This location overcame major obstacles over the last decade, most notably a rebuild following the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. The original Mississippi plant was located on the back bay in Biloxi. The production facility suffered considerable damage after Hurricane Katrina made land-

Congratulations Viking Range!

Once again chosen as a

BEST PLACE TO WORK IN MS

fall. A storm surge of nearly 35 feet carried nearly 50 boats, casino barges, and debris onto the property. Thanks to the support of the surrounding community the plant was able to get back up and running quickly.

Tindall chose to relocate to higher ground in Moss Point. There, they were able to rapidly construct a new facility on a 100-acre site.

PAI PRIDE!

We love our team, and we love this city! Thank you from all of us at Payment Alliance International for honoring our company as one of the Best Places to Work!

Voted Best Place to Work!

GREENWOOD, MISSISSIPPI

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VIKINGRANGE.COM

GoPAI.com y 877.271.2627 y ATMSuperstore.com © 2018 PAYMENT ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

BPTW-MS_0718

2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 19

CATEGORY: MEDIUM

Fisher Brown Bottell Insurance

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isher Brown Bottrell is constantly evolving and listening to its employees on ways it can improve its workplace and culture.

Fisher Brown has internal committees that meet regularly to plan community involvement, internal events, company outings and more. It celebrates its employees and strives to make it a company that empowers and appreciates everyone who is apart of the Fisher Brown Bottrell Family.

Created by the merger of two innovative and long-respected agencies, Fisher Brown Bottrell Insurance Inc., provides comprehensive insurance solutions to a diverse business and personal clientele base throughout the Southeastern United States. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Trust-

mark National Bank, a publicly traded financial services institution with over 3000 associates in Alabama, Florida, Mississippi,Tennessee and Texas.

Maron Marvel Bradley Anderson & Tardy

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aron Marvel Bradley Anderson & Tardy doesn’t look or operate like other law firms. It has assembled a diverse and inclusive team of lawyers and other professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills. It is forward-thinking, diverse, and philanthropic. Maron Marvel employees come from schools across the country, fluently speak 13 foreign languages, and boast a wide range of experience both in and out of the courtroom.

Maron Marvel was founded in 1996 in Wilmington, Delaware by experienced trial and litigation management attorneys who came out of the traditional law firm with a desire to build a better model to serve clients. Over the past 20 years, Maron Marvel grew from a boutique toxic tort

20 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

practice to a national powerhouse. With attorneys licensed to practice in 21 states and with twelve offices in 10 states, it has assembled a diverse and inclusive team of lawyers and other professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills to offer our clients the best representation possible.

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CATEGORY: MEDIUM

Navigator Credit Union

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or more than 75 years, Navigator Credit Union has thrived by providing personalized financial services to its membership. Founded as Ingalls Employees Credit Union in 1939, the institution changed its name in 2004 to reflect the broad Mississippi and Alabama coastal base it serves.

Today, Navigator Credit Union’s membership has grown to more than 50,000 while employees extoll the virtues of being a part of the Navigator team. Navigator team members are provided with a generous benefits package, including a health and wellness program that offers free gym memberships to employees. They also enjoy a “lunch benefit”, with free sandwiches and soup provided by the company.

Workplace fun, combined with employee recognition and a spirit of cooperation, are critical to Navigator team members who resoundingly recommend the company as a great place to work.

R.J. Allen & Associates, Inc. is honored to be recognized for the third consecutive year as one of the Best Places to Work in Mississippi by the Mississippi Business Journal.

“It’s our people that make our company what it is today!”

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2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 21

CATEGORY: SMALL FIRST PLACE

Copeland and Johns, Inc.

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opeland & Johns, Inc. was founded in 1978 with the desire and vision to develop a professional design build construction firm that could consistently deliver exceptional construction services when the client’s need demanded compressed construction schedules.

Since 1978, Copeland & Johns, Inc. has earned the reputation of completing complicated projects with highly restricted construction schedules, maintaining established budgets and producing the required services honestly and professionally while delivering its services in an open and congenial manner.

While Mississippi is home, Copeland & Johns, Inc. has also completed projects across the U.S., including in Florida, North Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Kansas, Texas, and Arkansas. Our vast experience with design build

construction provides Copeland & Johns, Inc. with invaluable knowledge and skills that benefit all our clients, regardless of the project’s delivery method. Copeland & Johns, Inc. appreciates each opportunity we are given and greatly values the trust and relationships established with our clients.

SECOND PLACE

R.J. Allen & Associates Inc.

R.

J. Allen & Associates, Inc. has general construction experience dating back to 1970. Incorporated in the State of Mississippi in 1984, RJAA provides professional construction management for every sector of the construction market throughout the Southern United States.

R.J. Allen recognizes that its success lies in the commitment, passion, and integrity of its construction professionals. For these reasons, it strives to provide an environment that is both challenging and rewarding. R.J. Allen is a team-oriented company, sharing the goals and core values that have made the company a suc-

22 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

cess. RJAA offers great benefits, inspiring leadership, and a company culture that facilitates employee loyalty and commitment.

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CATEGORY: SMALL THIRD PLACE

EMI Staffing, Inc.

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lacing skilled professionals in workplaces where they will truly excel requires understanding on how people think and act on the job. It also requires a strong team of dedicated recruiters who fully comprehend the local, national and regional marketplace. At EMI Staffing, mission accomplished. The Grenada-based company provides exactly the kind of hands-on service that companies expect from a staffing provider.

Since 1998, EMI Staffing’s team of seasoned staffing professionals has helped countless companies in Mississippi and the surrounding states find both contract and permanent employees.

They also assist hundreds of talented professionals in their search for a new position, and recruit

for a wide range of contract and direct positions.

EMI Staffing prides itself on a family-friendly environment where people’s voices can be heard.

Strong supporters of Leadership Grenada, the company employs 15 full-time team members.

Better Together At Bradley, we know that our staff is essential to the firm’s success. Our attorneys count on our staff to consistently provide exceptional service so we can meet — and exceed — the needs of our clients.

Bradley is proud to have been named one of the MBJ’s “Best Places to Work” for the third consecutive year.

bradley.com No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers. ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. Contact: Margaret Oertling Cupples, Esq., 601.592.9914, mcupples@bradley.com, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP, 188 E. Capitol Street, Suite 400, Jackson, MS 39201.

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2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 23

CATEGORY: SMALL

May & Company

I

n 1922, May and Company was a new, small auditing firm located in the First National Bank building in Vicksburg run by a single accountant, James D. Pond. The firm went through many name changes in following years with changes in partners, but settled on May & Company, LLP in 1984.

In 1989, May & Company built its own building in Vicksburg, which remains the main office today. However, it has expanded with offices in Tallulah and Lake Providence, La., as well as Millport, Ala. May and Company’s traditional services include accounting and auditing , tax return preparation, tax planning, accounting software application

support, and computer support. It specializes in the agriculture, construction, dealership, manufacturing, medical professional, not-for-profit, optometric practice, real estate, retail, and timber and forest product industries.

Payment Alliance International

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AI has a rich history of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. At its inception in 2005, PAI provided transaction processing for businesses to accept credit/debit cards in physical store locations. As advances in technology progressed, PAI expanded into telephone, e commerce, prepaid/gift card, mobile, and P2P payments. Three years later, PAI expanded into the ATM business and for the next 10 years PAI continued to acquire companies with innovative technology and solutions, as well as enjoy organic growth. As of the end of 2017 nearly 50 acquisitions were completed, and in March 2017, the company successfully divested its highly successful merchant payment processing unit, driving enhanced focus and providing additional capital for future expansion.

Today, with more than 75,000 ATMs, incredibly 1 out of every 3 retail ATMs in America is

24 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

processed by PAI, making it the largest, privately-held ATM provider in the US! With the largest sales network in the ATM industry, PAI touches every part of the “cash cycle” and is the industry’s most fully-integrated provider, serving merchants, consumers, financial institutions, and ATM wholesalers.

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CATEGORY: SMALL

Asset Engineering

E

stablished in 2000 by Neal Rich, The ASSET Company operated as an engineering firm and a sales representative office working from the Rich house in Madison, Mississippi. In 2001 Ben Barnette joined the company as a partner in the firm. In 2002 the company was reorganized as ASSET Company, PLLC dba ASSET Engineering and ASSET Company Sales, LLC. In 2004, ASSET purchased its first office in Canton, and after extensive restoration and improvements, returned this derelict county-owned property to useful service. In 2007 the company purchased and renovated its current office

GOOD NEWS

in Canton, Mississippi. The company has grown organically over the years and is now approaching 20 employees and a branch office in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

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2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 25

CATEGORY: SMALL

Cosmich Simmons & Brown, PLLC

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SB is a general civil litigation firm headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi with offices in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, New Orleans, Louisiana, Covington, Kentucky, Scottsdale, Arizona, Grand Rapids, Michigan, St. Louis, Missouri, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Our firm has provided dedicated and passionate legal representation to clients in state and federal trial and appellate courts across the country since 2002.

The Firm represents over 330 clients and presently has 155 attorneys and 70 non-attorney employees. While the Firm provides representation in the areas of commercial litigation and general tort and insurance litigation, since its founding its practice has focused on toxic tort and occupational exposure litigation, including asbestos, silica, benzene and others.

The Firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorneys have extensive experience

trying cases in courts across the country and have obtained multiple defense verdicts for their clients. In addition, attorneys in the Firm serve as national trial counsel and national coordinating counsel for many Fortune 500 companies.

Infusion Plus

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nfusionPlus is an infusion pharmacy providing medications and nutrition in the home setting and alternate sites for patients in Mississippi and Louisiana.

InfusionPlus provides for its employees a teamwork structure that shares a common goal of patient/customer prioritization. Employee input and perspectives are respected and encouraged in making decisions for the organization. Management also places a high priority on the employeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; personal goals and needs and moves quickly to meet these needs when possible. Shared values of faith and family provides a strong foundation for InfusionPlus and its employees to grow.

A local ownership and local management team

26 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

allows agility and flexibility in decision making for meeting the needs for patients with ever changing circumstances.

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CATEGORY: SMALL

SchoolStatus

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choolStatus was founded by Education Technology professionals that saw a need in school districts to help them actually put their data analytics to use in a way that made sense.

They started by helping with Mississippi state accountability data, and as schools began improving , they also started requesting more features.

SchoolStatus was born from those requests as a product and company that truly exists to help those that serve our kids in the education system.

It is now a mix of educators and EdTech professionals who are all highly passionate about what we do.

Schools Status has seven Executive Team Members in its 26-person company, with additional interns from USM in its statistics department as well as numerous Mississippi contractors.

Medical Solutions

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t the Tupelo office of Medical Solutions, management has created a unique, fun workplace culture that defies the conventions of corporate America. Launched in Omaha, Nebraska by Dale Williams and Scott Anderson, Medical Solutions is the third largest travel nurse staffing company in the nation.

The company staffs traveling healthcare professionals in short-term assignments throughout the nation, with Tupelo boasting 11 team members. Employees are appreciated holistically, and valued for their passions both on and off the job.

In addition to traditional benefits, such as “day one” medical/dental/vision coverage, Medical Solutions also offers team members concierge

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services, casual dress code, free food and beverages and flexible schedules.

In 2013, the company was named “Best Staffing Firm to Work For” by Staffing Industry Analysts, a global advisor on contingent work.

2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 27

CATEGORY: SMALL

Silas Simmons, LLP

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ilas Simmons, LLP has been in business for over 85 years. The firm began back in 1932 when America was in the depth of depression. Silas M. Simmons, in Greenwood at the time, learned that a small accounting practice in Natchez was for sale due to the owner passing away. Simmons negotiated the purchase of the practice and moved to Natchez. Since then, Silas Simmons, LLP has changed office buildings multiple times and has grown from a small office of 1-2 people to the largest CPA firm in Southwest Mississippi. Today, the firm serves a broad client base, predominately in Louisiana and Mississippi, with a team of over forty staff.

The firm offers a wide range of services to our individual and business clients. Because our firm

is relatively small, our clients benefit by getting personalized attention and extraordinary personal service. Silas Simmons offers a complete range of services including (but not limited to) accounting, tax preparation/planning, auditing and business advisory services.

Tempstaff

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he plaudits and honors keep rolling in for TempStaff, a proud Mississippi staffing service based in Jackson. In 2014 and 2015, the company was named to Inavero and Career Builder’s “Best of Staffing” lists in both Client and Talent categories. A woman-owned business certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council, the company’s hard-earned reputation for quality service and commitment to clients has allowed it to become one of the largest independently-owned services in the South.

Recently, TempStaff created the Sprout Initiative to help grow Mississippi through charitable giving, with employees and staff donating via payroll deductions, with the company matching to benefit numerous non-profit organizations.

28 – 2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi

In addition, team members teach job search and interviewing skills through local high schools and community colleges. In 2014, TempStaff employed nearly 4,000 workers throughout central and southwest Mississippi.

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CATEGORY: SMALL

Synergetics DCS

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ustomer service is the core value at Synergetics, a full service IT consulting company. Launched in 1992 by President and CTO Jim Raines, Synergetics has a wide-range of technology solutions that enable clients to concentrate on what’s important – ensuring the success of their businesses.

The Starkville-based company offers network design and management, and provides network infrastructure, including fiber optic, copper cabling , and wireless solutions. Synergetics management believes in the value of hard work, and in the importance of striking a healthy balance between the job and one’s personal life.

Providing team members the ability to ‘flex’ their work schedules in order to maintain this

healthy work-life balance is a priority at Synergetics. Employees also are encouraged to participate in continuing education, training and professional certifications opportunities.

The Solutions Team Inc.

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ounded in 2007, with locations in Jackson and Carrollton, Ga., The Solutions Team is a Managed Cloud Solutions Provider offering a proven suite of hosting and managed services to businesses of all sizes seeking greater functionality, security and flexibility to work remotely from anywhere via the Internet.

The Solutions team believes it creates a culture, where everyone is appreciated as a member of The Solutions Team family – from top management to the newest hire.

The Solutions Team’s Founder and CEO, Todd Gooden, is engaged in the day-to-day activities of the company, and easily approachable. He works just as hard as everyone else.

Everyone is appreciated and valued for the individuality they bring to the team. Employees

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are rewarded with competitive salaries, company paid healthcare, three weeks of paid leave, bonus plans, professional training and company sponsored lunches and other periodic team-building events.

2018 Best Places to Work in Mississippi – 29

FOCUS: EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TRAINING MISSISSIPPI

Workforce training especially important in period of low unemployment

By BECKY GILLETTE

W

hen companies large and small make a decision to relocate in Mississippi, often they will give available labor and the availability of quality workforce training as a big factor in their decision. Especially with current low unemployment rates, workforce training programs help assure new and existing industries have the type of skilled workers they need to be successful.

MDA Authority Executive Director Glenn McCullough said one of the first questions new and existing companies ask is if Mississippi has the available workforce to get the job done.

“Mississippi is aggressively working to ensure we have a skilled and productive workforce today and in the future,” McCullough said. “This is why the legislature passed and the governor signed

30 – Mississippi Business Journal

into law the Mississippi Works Fund.

This fund provides $50 million over the next decade for workforce training to ensure there is a clear pathway to a career for all Mississippians.”

McCullough said Mayfield there are several exciting initiatives taking place in Mississippi. In October 2017, the Mississippi Development Authority, Innovate Mississippi, the Mississippi Community College Board, Hinds Community College and East Mississippi Community College announced the creation of the Mississippi Coding Academies. The Coding Academies are an economic development and educational initiative also started through the Mississippi Works Fund. The acad-

emies offer post-secondary students an intensive 11-month, tuition-free computer science education program which prepares highly motivated high school graduates who are not college or junior college bound for careers in the high-tech field of coding.

The inaugural courses welcomed 19 students. In December, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation granted the academies $1 million to grow its current program in Jackson from one to four academies to dramatically increase the number of Jackson-based coders.

“The Mississippi Coding Academies are addressing an important skills gap for in-demand careers across a variety of industry sectors for coders,” McCullough said. “This is one of many innovative programs in the state focused on maintaining and strengthening Mississippi’s world-class workforce.”

Another exciting program, Mc-

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EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TRAINING Cullough said, is the Mississippi Furniture Academy. This program started as a result of the Mississippi Works Fund.

Launched in 2017, the manufacturing skills program is a 28-hour course designed to train students for in-demand jobs in the furniture manufacturing sector. Upon completion of the course, which is certified by several local furniture companies, graduates receive up to two nationally recognized credentials.

“Graduates also have the opportunity to be placed at the front of the hiring line at participating companies and receive higher starting pay,” McCullough said. “The Furniture Academy is a partnership between Mississippi State University’s Franklin Furniture Institute, Itawamba Community College, Northeast Mississippi Community College, the Community Development Foundation of Lee County, Three Rivers Planning and Development District and several industry partners.”

McCullough said they are exceptionally proud of the state’s growing business climate and employment opportunities created through economic development. These opportunities have resulted in record low unemployment figures in Mississippi. He said the Mississippi Works fund in collaboration with their workforce partners is ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled and trained workers ready to help Mississippi-based companies.

“Mississippi is working tirelessly to improve the quality of its workforce to meet the ever-increasing needs of industry,” said Dr. Andrea Mayfield, executive director of the Mississippi Community College Board. “Mississippi is more committed than ever before to provide the education, skills, and training necessary to ensure its competitive edge. Through partnerships with the Mississippi Community College Board, Mississippi Community Colleges, Mississippi Development Authority, State Workforce Investment Board, Mississippi Department of Employment Security, Department of Human Services, nSPARC, K-12 and IHL, Mississippi is achieving its mission to put Mississippi to work again.”

Mayfield said all companies that consider Mississippi will quickly realize the combined effort of state resources will be brought to bear to meet their

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“Mississippi’s community colleges work collaboratively with industry to understand specific needs which drive the specialized education and training programs to produce the workforce.”

Dr. Andrea Mayfield

from programs aligned to industry standards.

Taking the time to obtain or improve workforce training is a valuable investment for employees to improve their skills so they can make better salaries and improve their changes for advancement.

“A continuum of learning and skill mastery is key to any opportunity for advancement,” Mayfield said. “Workforce training and education programs at Mississippi community colleges are a pipeline to higher salaries. The data clearly shows a significant impact of community college education and training on wage gains. Because community colleges offer specialized education and training designed to meet industry needs at the lowest cost, people have expanded opportunities to grow with little to no debt. Coupled with advanced skills and salaries, no debt means even more income for that dream home, two cars and boat dream in our great state.

For the company, advanced workers with advanced skills mean advanced productivity.”

Mayfield said as executive director of the Mississippi Community College Board, he is committed to ensuring a workforce is developed with the education and skills needed for employment and subsequent better quality of life.

“I am further committed to business and industry to ensure they have access to the workforce and workforce training it needs to be productive,” he said.

MDA has the ability to direct funds as part of recruitment and expansion efforts. To learn more about how a Mississippi location can help your business gain momentum, contact the Locate Mississippi team at 1.800.360.3323 or locateinms@mississippi.org.

needs and ensure success.

When companies consider Mississippi, they must be assured a skilled workforce is available.

“Companies must have access to the workforce in the numbers they need and having the skills they need for successful productive operation,” Mayfield said. “Mississippi’s community colleges work collaboratively with industry to understand specific needs which drive the specialized education and training programs to produce the workforce.

Mississippi community colleges are the experts at listening to industry needs and using that knowledge to produce the workforce on demand.”

The most recent figures show more than 90,000 people at hundreds of companies received workforce training from a Mississippi community college. http://www.msbusiness.com Mayfield said training BANKS Q Regions Bank.................................................................................................................. www.regions.com is ongoing and diverse HUMAN RESOURCES to meeting the speQ People Lease.........................................................................................................www.peoplelease.com INSURANCE AGENCIES cialized needs of the Q Account Services Group........................................................... www.accountservicesgroup.com company. In calendar LAW FIRMS Q Victor W. Carmody, Jr. P.A........................................................................... www.mississippidui.com year 2018, Mississippi PAYROLL community colleges Q People Lease.........................................................................................................www.peoplelease.com SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT produced a workforce Q Mansell Media.................................................................................................... www.mansellmedia.net with over 20,432 cerHave your business listed here! Contact your tificates and degrees advertising representative at 601.364.1000

Mississippi Business Journal – 31

Hom e of th e

HiRO Medical Drone Dr. Italo Subbarao and William Carey University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine are developing a high-tech, cost-effective “ambulance drone” capable of flying into disasters, delivering medical kits, and enabling doctors to supervise and direct emergency treatment through a live communication interface.

The Healthcare Integrated Rescue Operations (HiRO) drone has been featured on CNN and other local, regional and national media outlets.

This summer, the HiRO team is working with Mississippi public safety partners on FAA compliance, studying how to increase flight time, and exploring ways to make the drone cost-effective when it becomes commercially available.

Meeting Healthcare Needs in Mississippi College of Osteopathic Medicine: Second medical school in Mississippi and the state’s only osteopathic medical school. The inaugural class graduated in 2014, has completed residency and is now entering practice.

School of Pharmacy: A doctoral program, the WCU School of Pharmacy opened July 23 at the Tradition campus with an inaugural class of 60 students.

College of Health Sciences: Graduate programs in Nursing, Physical Therapy, and Health Administration and Education.

Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management.

Join the Carey family. Fall classes begin Aug. 27.

Hattiesburg Campus 710 William Carey Parkway Hattiesburg, Mississippi (601) 318-6051

Tradition Campus 19640 Highway 67 Biloxi, Mississippi (228) 702-1775

www.wmcarey.edu

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TRAINING DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY

LaForge leads DSU into the future

By CALLIE DANIELS BRYANT

F

ive years ago, Delta State University welcomed home its beloved student as its president: Bill LaForge.

As a Cleveland native, and the son of DSU’s Dean of College Arts and Science William LaForge (whose name can be found on the university’s library building), his homecoming seems obvious.

But he is a nontraditional president.

“I did not come through the way of academia,” said LaForge, recounting his 37 years in Washington D.C. where he first served as Chief of Staff to Thad Cochran then as chief counsel for an appropriations subcommittee for the U.S. Senate. As a registered lobbyist he specialized in federal government relations as he represented businesses and organizations with public policy interests – a topic he also taught for over 25 years as an adjunct professor at three different universities including Georgetown. His post-graduate journey took him to Russia, Poland and Bulgaria as a visiting professor, too.

Then he came home to the one place that helped impact Mississippi, United States and other countries around the world – Delta State University.

“There’s this natural affinity you might think,” LaForge said, “plus I’m a product of this university. It gave me the platform to grow and develop in many areas, not only in my own competencies of history and philosophy but in law school, student organizations, Greek life, leadership opportunities – all were great and I want that for our students today.

That’s a part of my passion in doing all of this; it was natural for me to come back to my alma mater. Not everyone has that opportunity; I’m very privileged to do that.”

When he first stepped into charge for Delta State on April of 2013 the university had suffered decreasing enrollment and inefficient budget for the past eight years. The cabinet members were leaving with his predecessor. It was “an almost-crisis.”

LaForge faced the looming mountain ahead with these goals: stabilize the budget, also stabilize enrollment, curate

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Special to the MBJ

Bill LaForge. a leadership team, grow the university’s international presence, expand campus programming, and boost academic excellence.

There is elation in his voice as he said the budget “is in the black.”

“Our budget was in a precarious position when I arrived,” LaForge said. “We had to undertake some painful program eliminations: we closed a program in Clarksdale, closed our laundry and last year, we closed our golf course which was not really well-used.”

As a regional university that isn’t one

of major universities Delta State has to be lean and mean with scarce resources in LaForge’s words.

He added that the university is largely dependent on state support that has been strong but this last year was “basically static with a small increase so basically flat funding.”

“For the 2016 and 2017 year we had combined 14.5 percent cut, that was a killer for a public university – many people would say untenable,” LaForge

See LaForge, Page 34

Mississippi Business Journal – 33

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TRAINING

LAFORGE

Continued from, Page 33

said. “I think our legislators do what they can with the lack of state revenue I guess that’s all our problem.”

While half of the university’s funding depends on the state the other “big chunk that allows us to operate” is tuition.

LaForge said, “This past year was the first year in history in 90 years that Delta State University derived more revenue from tuition rather than the state.

What that does is it forces us to think about tuition increases which we might not have done if we didn’t get state support. It’s difficult to run an operation when you’re not getting the money then cut midstream so we had to increase tuition five percent last week, incoming this year.”

Despite these challenges the university matched its budget and LaForge is grateful that programs and faculty were protected from big cuts.

“No one was let go, not one,” he said.

“This summer, primarily because we were able to raise tuition I was able to give a three percent raise based on merit. That’s the first raise in three years – badly needed to a very well-deserved faculty and staff who work hard every day.”

The last component of the university’s funding lies in donations from charity to foundation support to private gifts.

“We’ve had an up tick in charitable giving to this university,” LaForge said.

“We haven’t done the final audit but we believe this has been our biggest charitable year in history. We’ve been demonstrating we’re going places as a respectable university with every reason to believe our programs and graduates are going to be successful because our measure of success is that it does them no good and gives us no pleasure having someone hang out here for two years the not finish. It’s all about getting the graduates and helping them get a job.”

He appreciates the support from partnerships with foundations, and added that the university will embark on a capital campaign soon. The university has announced a few major gifts in seven-figures as well as several six figure gifts, and may ask for state support and financial support.

“When you ask how we have fared,” LaForge said, “we never have had big

34 – Mississippi Business Journal

windfalls of dollars to use in a surge way.

It’s all incremental. For one example, we have millions of dollars of deferred maintenance on this campus and most of that will be corrected from bonds from legislature. IF we get five million of bond authorization that’s all we can do.

We’ll do that this year.”

With improved budgeting LaForge and his leadership team are now putting finishing touches on projects across campus.

“We’re not building new buildings, we’re renovating and restoring our existing buildings,” LaForge said.

Among the fixer-uppers is the music building to which the Delta Music Institute will get keys to enjoy the renovations this summer. The university cafeteria is also improved and will open this August.

The budget decisions were tough, and among the dynamic changes he made to the university, but he said those decisions helped them “right the ship.”

The university enrollment has steadily increased for the past four years.

LaForge notes that some people consider Delta State a secret treasure in Mississippi. He likes the treasure part, but not so much the secret part.

“We have a mission first of all to serve the citizenry of the Delta and the state,” LaForge said. “We’re a regional university and we’re doing our best to serve a population that is often quite unprepared or under prepared for college. Many students come from first-generation college families, first person in their families to go to college.

Many don’t have the economic means to go to college so we have Pell Grant students. We have a great many students who are not like many, who are not privileged or have those opportunities to pay for it and we’re passionate about it and proud of our progress here.”

He added that Delta State’s tuition is the third lowest of any university in Mississippi, just north of $7,000 a year.

“I used to teach at George Washington and Georgetown universities as an adjunct professor. Their tuition for one year now exceeds $50,000, that’s four two-year educations at Delta State University. They’re private, granted, but the bargain you get with a DSU education is incredible,” LaForge said.

Now he has a team of professionals who help him bring the university to greater heights. He is also proud of the faculty who puts “that personal touch on

our instruction.”

“It’s all up to our faculty to give first team first attention to every student,” he said. “Unique ways you prepare them we do it with a personal touch, that professor who goes an extra mile an extra day getting over the hump. We have a saying here: ‘Join in and stand out.’ That’s not only in the classroom but in extracurricular. We want them to be well-rounded when they get here. We have a comprehensive approach because we want a complete package student as much as we can. We are student-centric, in and out of the classroom. We like that student engagement; I come to it very honestly and naturally because I went to school here, and had a great four-year experience. That’s why I came back to be president. I know what this place is, I value it, and I want our students to have the same experience I had many years ago.”

The faculty especially supports students in signature programs like aviation, accounting, social work, music, nursing, teaching and education.

Delta State University also has more support for its existing international programs along with a new study abroad program that is less than a year old.

Now they have international exchange with students, faculty and staff around the world.

“I taught at a law school in Poland, the Second Catholic University of Lublin in May and signed a new agreement with them.” LaForge said, “We’re bringing our first Fulbright scholar to research and teach here; she’s bringing her children to go to public school. We’ve more than doubled our international students in four years – record high (was) this past spring with 134 students from 48 different countries.”

LaForge also tackled his fifth goal: expand campus programming. Delta State University now includes “a number of cutting-edge activities” such as race-relations conference called “Winning the Race,” where the panelists host crucial dialogue on issues dealing with race in the Delta. The university also has its International Delta Blues Conference where bluesmen and those who love them can engage in history, music, and everything in between.

“I began a colloquium which is our distinguished speaker series,” LaForge said. “We’ve had speakers here like the former governor William Winter to Robert Khayat to Fred Smith, CEO and

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EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TRAINING founder of FedEx – an incredible array of speakers in the last five years.”

He also boosted the university’s community engagement efforts. For example, LaForge sponsored the university’s annual Mayor’s Summit which hosts all mayors in the Delta. He also created a recent program called “Elect the Local Government Leadership Institute” which gives basic training to public officials at the municipal, county and local levels on

and advising the students.

LaForge added the Gertrude Ford program also committed a multi-million-dollar pledge to underwrite the center for teaching and learning.

The impact of this sixth goal is far-reaching, past the university’s campus and beyond Cleveland. LaForge stressed the importance of education, especially the role of higher education in Mississippi.

successful courses in aviation, accounting and nursing.

Although, he notes that vocational education is just as important as higher education.

“If college isn’t for everyone we should have vocational opportunities,” he said, “training on the job – breaking out of the poverty cycle, out of where we are as a state on the bottom rung.”

LaForge hopes that his goals will

Delta State’s tuition is the third lowest of any university in Mississippi, just north of $7,000 a year. how to run the government.

LaForge’s sixth and prominent goal is boosting academics, a major undertaking for the university, but the impact of his goal is not underestimated.

The university improved standards and credentials as well as increasing graduation and retention rates.

“We’re doing more to keep our students in school on the path to graduation,” LaForge said.

The seniors in every major are required to complete a capstone project – a culmination project of their newly-gained knowledge in their majors and how it can be applied to existing problems. These projects can be a thesis, an experiment, or recital presentations.

The university also requires every graduate in their senior years to take two courses that include enhanced writing skills development.

“We’ve listened to business and graduate schools saying, ‘We want better writers,’” LaForge said. “Those two up ticks of our academics should make our graduates more competitive, have better skills, and be more marketable not just for jobs but for seats in graduate professional schools – it should resound as a reputational benefit to Delta State University.”

The university also added a center for teaching and learning. Its purpose is to provide an internal professional development for the faculty so they can remain current in their fields not just in teaching content but in implementing the methodology, relating to the youth

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“Education generally, and higher education is critical to Mississippi and Mississippians – make no mistake,” LaForge said. “It’s vital to our future collectively as a state, to the Delta who we serve here, and to individuals. It’s a key to the new Mississippi if we’re going to break off the bottom of these categories we get scored in every year – at the bottom of every list that people get ashamed of. It’s education that is the key to pick the lock to the new Delta. Mississippians don’t understand, sometimes, how good they really have it. You have eight state-supported universities…”

He said that the eight university presidents all know each other well, and they compete sometimes, but he commends them for doing a great job with scarce resources provided for students in Mississippi. Currently, the value and the market for the universities in Mississippi “is outstanding.”

“We need a higher amount of high school graduates and community college graduates to come to the university level, get a degree, and move on, simple enough,” he said. “A college degree means more than one million – more in your career in economic terms. It makes people more interesting, more aware, more interested in other things – it’s all good reasons for going to school.”

He acknowledges that not every degree will get someone hired immediately, but pointed out that there are several programs that can support a career change. For example, at Delta State University, one can enroll in its

have a lasting impact on the university.

Many of them were already realized, but he said that others are still works in progress because of how important they are to him.

He said, “I’ll tell you when I walk away from this position one day, the visioning principles we put into place here, which we just went through today – I call that an advance because we’re moving forward not retreating backwards. These principles are snapshots of where we want to go as an university, the success we would see five to 10 years down the road, the impact we can make...a headline would be great: Delta State helped cut poverty in the state by half, or two national championships in one year giving our athletes an incredible experience, or a Grammy winner recorded at Delta Music Institute. You have to think big, and I don’t mean too big for your britches. I mean think big because we’re offering the world to our students and international programming. If we can’t send a student abroad we will bring the world to them.”

He added: “Delta State is on fire, in the best way possible. We’re going to a new year, we have a new student orientation, the excitement level is at an all-time high. We have a great group here isolated in the Delta doing great things. If people want to see that, we invite them to come to the campus. Don’t just believe the printed word, come take a look.”

Mississippi Business Journal – 35

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE TRAINING COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

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36 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mississippi Business Journal

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