2011
IN Business
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regallogistics.com 866-300-5580
A Note From the Publisher
Those of you who have been Business Journal readers all of these years most likely know this story, but for you newer readers, the origin of Profiles in Business bears repeating. Not long after we launched the Business Journal in 1995, businesspeople began asking us to include stories about their companies in our publication. As journalists, we always had to reply, “We can’t do that until you do something we can report as news.”
At the same time, many of those same people were asking if they could hire our advertising copywriters to produce pieces they could use in brochures and marketing materials — but we were always too busy putting out the newspaper. Finally it dawned on us: Why not combine the two? And looking at the success of this year’s version of Profiles in Business, it seems the marriage has been a happy one. Grady Johnson
I hope these profiles give you some insight into the working lives of the people who make up the Charleston-area business community, because each and every one has a unique story to tell. Please accept my enthusiastic invitation to read the 2011 Profiles in Business, and I hope you will enjoy reading about this sample of Charleston business life as much as I do.
Grady Johnson Publisher
Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Featured Profiles 1 Sterling Place Ltd........................................................ 13
Liquid Box....................................................................... 23
Advanced Automation Consulting................................... 35
Ocean Surf Shop............................................................. 19
Atlantic Shield Insurance Group..................................... 30
Palmetto Primary Care Physicians................................. 10
Auxano Solutions............................................................ 28
Palmetto State E-cademy............................................... 24
C&C Warehouse.............................................................. 36
Parker Land Surveying................................................... 38
Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission...... 4
Pratt Industries................................................................. 8
Charleston Crab House................................................... 31
Precision Walls Inc.......................................................... 21
Charleston Defense Contractors Association.................. 26
PST – Productivity Solutions & Training.......................... 37
Charlestowne Hotels Inc................................................. 22
Quattlebaum Development............................................. 18
The Citadel Graduate College........................................... 6
Regal Logistics............................................................... 40
Coastal Structures.......................................................... 14
RG Advocates - medical bill solutions............................ 20
Colliers International...................................................... 17
SC Business Publications Corporate & Consumer
Commonwealth - Brown & Brown Insurance,
Publishing Division......................................................... 34
a subsidiary of Brown & Brown Inc................................ 33
SCJobMarket.com.......................................................... 25
DWG Consulting Engineers............................................. 27
SouthCon Building Group.................................................. 5
eGroup............................................................................ 11
Spirit Telecom................................................................. 16
Frampton & Associates Inc............................................. 29
Superior Transportation.................................................. 32
GreenBy3.......................................................................... 7
Trident Technical College................................................ 12
Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union................................ 39
Trio Solutions.................................................................... 9
Keepsakes Florist........................................................... 15
Cover & Table of Contents Photo by Ryan Wilcox
2 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
CEO and Group Publisher - Grady Johnson gjohnson@scbiznews.com • 849.3103 Vice President of Sales - Steve Fields sfields@scbiznews.com • 849.3110 Managing Editor - Andy Owens aowens@scbiznews.com • 849.3141 Senior Copy Editor - Beverly Morgan bmorgan@scbiznews.com • 849.3115 Special Projects Editor - Allison Cooke Oliverius aoliverius@scbiznews.com • 849.3149 Creative Director - Ryan Wilcox production1@scbiznews.com • 849.3117 Senior Graphic Designer - Jane Mattingly production2@scbiznews.com • 849.3118 Senior Account Executive - Sue Gordon sgordon@scbiznews.com • 849.3111 Account Executive - Dave Shepp dshepp@scbiznews.com • 849.3109
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Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission
County park system’s growth sharpens its focus on residents’ recreational needs
Shagging the night away on the Cooper
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hen life’s pressures build, it’s the perfect time to be up a creek with a paddle. Taking to the water, heading for the woods or hitting the beach for a long walk are all great antidotes for the stress of modern life. Enter the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission. Created in 1968, the CCPRC views itself as the “big” park agency — not a competitor with other municipal recreation programs, but one focused on the needs of the county as a whole.
CCPRC has adopted the “enterprise approach” as a system of managing the parks. While citizens’ tax dollars pay for some services, the parks’ main attractions are directly supported by user fees. With this philosophy, those who use the service pay for the service. “We have found that the citizens will pay for a service that they value,” said Tom O’Rourke, the PRC’s executive director. “The enterprise approach is based on the premise that if a citizen does not want to avail themselves of our attractions or programs, then they should not have to pay for this service.” The commission offers a host of “products”: boat access to waterways; lifeguarding at beach parks; water safety, interpretive and community education programs at schools; rural recreation; day park operations with trails, fishing and crabbing, open meadows and off-leash dog facilities; shelter, facility and cottage rentals, campgrounds and primitive camping; water parks; special and corporate events; rock-climbing and equestrian programs; challenge course and team building; paddling programs; day camps; marina operations; fishing piers; parties and more. “The public owns our agency,” O’Rourke said. “What makes our business successful is the fact that there are a variety of ways that we stay in contact with our customers, so that we make sure we are doing exactly what they want us to do.” Population growth and residential shifts in Charleston County have meant changes to the PRC’s strategic plan. “We recently completed the purchase of almost 5,000 additional acres of parkland, almost doubling the size of the park system. With these additional purchases, a Charleston County Park will be within a short commute for every single resident of the county,” O’Rourke said. The community’s individuals and families need leisure pursuits and recreational activities, and that need has driven the PRC’s growth. In the past 10 years, the agency has grown from an annual budget of $18 million to more than $40 million, all without a tax increase. “Our staff is conditioned to watch the bottom line,” O’Rourke said. “As our bottom line grows, we can utilize these funds to grow the agency. In reality, the main reason for our growth has been the need for our product.”
861 Riverland Drive | Charleston, SC 29412 843-795-4FUN | www.ccprc.com
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SouthCon Building Group
Finding success as the new business on the block
Office and Project Management Staff
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ocusing on specific areas of the construction market such as industrial, retail, institutional and commercial, SouthCon Building Group may be the new business on the block, but it has surely taken it by storm. Started in 2008, SouthCon Building Group has been hired for several impressive projects and is currently way beyond the new business curve. Given the 60 years of collective industry experience between co-owners Chris Spach and Jim Woods, SouthCon’s rapidly growing success should come as no surprise. “We started the business during the economic downturn in 2008,” Spach said. “Early on, we were selected for several projects that afforded us the opportunity to grow as a company.” One such project is the SCANA Metroplex on Aviation Avenue in North Charleston. Here, SouthCon constructed a 52,000-square-foot building that serves as the 24-hour operations center for S.C. Electric & Gas. SouthCon is currently working on phase two of this venture and expects to complete it by September. “For a multiphase project with the scope and complexity of our Customer Contact Center and Electric Operations Complex, it was imperative to have a general contractor capable
of delivering the highest level of quality in addition to meeting the schedule requirements of our project’s demand. SouthCon has done just that, in addition to being a true team member and dedicating themselves to accomplish our objectives at every level with true expertise, professionalism and integrity,” said Barry McDonald, the owner’s representative. SouthCon also offers an array of construction management, consulting, renovation and upfit services, as well as design-build services. “We strive for total client satisfaction through open and honest dialogue,” Woods said. SouthCon also believes its experience and professionalism result in top-notch service and value for its clients. “Our client, architect and subcontractor references validate the difference our team can make on a project,” Woods said. From concept to final completion, SouthCon manages every project with integrity and a professionalism that results in lasting value for its clients. SouthCon has LEED accredited professionals on staff and holds unlimited general contractor licenses in the Carolinas and Georgia.
Owners Chirs Spach and Jim Woods
682 Johnnie Dodds Blvd. Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-225-2845 | www.southconbuilding.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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The Citadel Graduate College
Accelerated master’s program answers the need for STEM teachers in the Lowcountry
Dr. Tony Johnson, Dr. Kathy Richardson-Jones and Carolyn Kelley with students in the education program at The Citadel.
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he Citadel School of Education is proud to announce the formation of a new Accelerated Master of Arts in Teaching in Mathematics and Biology, the first and only program of its kind in South Carolina. Aimed at professionals in the fields of science or mathematics who want to shift their career focus to teaching, the program will cover current science and mathematics technologies and
content, as well as progressive pedagogies that teachers must master to inspire students to pursue careers in these fields. “South Carolina has a tremendous need for teachers in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics — called STEM for short,” said Carolyn Kelley, director of the STEM Center of Excellence at The Citadel. “I think most people are drawn to STEM fields because they want to make a difference in people’s lives,” Kelley said. “Many of those science and math professionals later find they are drawn to teaching for the same reason.” The master’s program is an accelerated degree because students can complete it in 15 months. Three features of the degree program make it attractive: • Students can continue to work in their current jobs while taking the first 12 months of courses in the evenings. • The Citadel has grant funding that allows it to offer students a stipend to help cover their living expenses during the final semester of student teaching. • Graduates are guaranteed a job in a local school district upon successful completion of the program. “We have such a significant talent pool of science and mathematics professionals in South Carolina,” Kelley said. “This program will prepare them to inspire the next generation of innovators, that will meet a workforce need for the state’s businesses.” The Citadel launched the STEM Center this past year and in 2010 made it a part of its strategic plan. The STEM Center, along with the Accelerated Master of Arts in Teaching program are two ways in which The Citadel is working to enhance STEM learning across the region. The first set of the accelerated classes begins in the fall of 2011. Applications are now being accepted for that class. For more information on the Accelerated Master of Arts in Teaching in Mathematics and Biology, contact Dr. Kathryn Richardson-Jones at kathryn.jones@citadel.edu or visit http://www.citadel.edu/education. For more information about the STEM Center, contact Carolyn Kelley, director, at 843-953-7121, or email her at ckelley1@citadel.edu.
171 Moultrie St. | Charleston, SC 29409 843-953-5097 | www.citadel.edu/education
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GreenBy3
GreenBy3 helps clients ‘ReThink, ReClaim and ReVive’
Jorge Riano, owner — A passion to make an impact
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hen Jorge Riano decided to start his own business, he wanted to be sure the company’s mission encompassed three things he is passionate about: helping the environment, helping people and helping the community. “Any project GreenBy3 works on has to impact one or all three of these areas,” said Riano, president of the Charlestonbased green consulting firm. GreenBy3 specializes in ecoadvisory services, energy improvement services and the
GreenBy3
ReThink -> ReClaim -> ReVive Taking simple steps to make a big difference
reclamation and reuse of building materials and products. As an eco-adviser, Riano consults with homeowners and business owners regarding their green building and energy-efficient objectives for new construction or renovation projects. He can then act as the owner’s representative, which means he works directly with architects, engineers, IT experts and the builder or contractor to help create and carry out a plan for a structure that meets the clients’ expectations and ultimately saves them money. “I help bridge the gap between the owner and the project team. My background and experience allows me to help owners in various capacities, from technology to energy efficiency to space planning, while keeping things simple and creating something that’s environmentally friendly and will save them money,” Riano said. A big part of that savings comes from using simple alternative methods and materials — such as installing a skylight to increase natural light and reduce electricity consumption. Riano also works with builders to reclaim surplus materials. This not only diverts material from the landfill, it also saves the builder disposal fees, a savings that the builder can pass along to his client. Riano first offers the reclaimed materials to his clients. “If someone is looking to buy four windows for a renovation, we can help them offset costs by providing them with the reclaimed windows at a reduced cost,” he said. However, if Riano’s clients can’t use the materials, he donates them. Riano once donated enough reclaimed materials to help complete the construction of a small community church in Summerville. Riano is also providing Crisis Ministries with sustainable partitions he reclaimed from an office space renovation project for use in its new homeless shelter. The other money-saving component of GreenBy3 is its energy improvement service. “We conduct an energy improvement assessment and explain what needs to be done. But then we don’t walk away. If the proposal is over their budget, we help them do as much as they can within their budget. Our goal is to help you save money and save energy, because the more energy you save, the more impact you have on the environment.” Riano’s approach is simple: Do what you can, when you can. “Our services complement one another. You can use all three together or individually, depending on your needs and budget.”
475-A East Bay St. | Charleston 29403 843-606-0355 | www.greenby3.com
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Pratt Industries - Simpsonville and Summerville locations
100% Recycled Box Manufacturer creates new fulfillment and packaging solutions center in Summerville
Bill Fruetel (from left), Frank Adams, Todd Bowman and Susan Henderson make up the management team at Pratt Industries in Simpsonville. Jerry Ward (not pictured) manages the new Summerville facility.
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ratt Industries is headquartered in Conyers, Ga., with a major converting facility in Simpsonville. The company has doubled its business in recent years and plans to continue that trend by providing award-winning customer service to manufacturers and consumer products companies seeking 100% recycled packaging for their products. This growth recently inspired Pratt Industries to expand to Summerville to offer its newest service of fulfillment and distribution solutions. Products can be packaged in either a climate-controlled or industrial environment in Summerville. “We can pull products from the Port of Charleston into Summerville, log each part into our Warehouse Management Software, design and produce creative packaging for the products, re-pack them and distribute them to the world from a single point of contact,” said General Manager Frank Adams. “The complete project management, from design to manufacturing to inventory control and supply chain solutions offered to customers, is second to none.” Founded in 1987, Pratt recycles paper and corrugated containers into new products for a 100% green packaging solution. That
effort earned it 2010 Partner of the Year Award and Eco Options Environmental Partner of the Year from Home Depot, as well as accolades from the Captain Planet and Global Green organizations. “Our ability to complete structural and graphic design, manufacture corrugated packaging and displays, as well as supply other packaging materials and complete fulfillment solutions for our customers’ products is something that is rarely available in our industry,” Adams said. “We truly partner with our customers by becoming part of their internal team for packaging solutions.” Pratt’s biggest challenges in recent years have been positive ones — dealing with tight space issues as the customer base has grown. The Simpsonville location created more than 15 jobs in the past year, including an additional shift to manufacture corrugated packaging, as well as staffing the new location in Summerville. “Our business strategy is to work with companies that are ready to challenge the status quo,” Adams said. “Our company desires to design and test what customers need for packaging their products.” The largest cost of packaging isn’t in the materials, it is from the products that are damaged as a result of the wrong packaging, he explained. “We grow where our partners need us,” Adams said, adding, “...We desire to build strong business relationships.”
The Simpsonville manufacturing site will expand to offer more packaging solution opportunities like those offered at Summerville.
1410 Old Stage Road | Simpsonville, SC 29681 864-963-0992 | www.prattindustries.com Summerville, SC | 843-695-6006
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Trio Solutions
Local marketing communication agency dedicated to working hard, enjoying life and making a difference.
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Trio Solutions Inc. celebrating 10 years of success in the marketing arena
elebrating 10 years of strategic marketing and communication services, Trio Solutions Inc. has braved the economic storm and come out stronger and better than ever. By providing a broad mix of marketing services to its clients, Trio not only serves an array of corporate clients throughout the Carolinas and around the country, it also proudly guides and assists numerous nonprofit organizations in making the most of their marketing efforts. By developing a team that is both creative and businesssavvy, Trio is proud of its small yet dynamic staff. “Our team is very cohesive,” said Jessica Munday, Trio’s founder and president. “Everyone here enjoys using their professional talents to make a difference.” For example, each year Trio sponsors a “CreateAthon” every September, where for 24 hours straight team members develop creative work for five Lowcountry nonprofits that have little or no marketing budgets. Selected using an in-house process, the applicants are reviewed and ultimately chosen based on a number of specific criteria. “It’s a difficult task to select only a few nonprofits to
work with,” Munday said. “All the applicants are doing such meaningful work in the community, we want to help them all.” With more than 50 active clients, Trio is a full-service marketing and communications agency that promotes the philosophy that hard work in tandem with creativity can yield results and make a difference in the marketplace and in individuals’ lives. Trio’s full-service approach includes marketing and public relations, graphic design, event planning, and Web and social media strategies that help build brand awareness while ultimately increasing and strengthening the client’s business. Trio regards itself as a creative, customer-focused company. It works closely with clients such as the Medical University of South Carolina, Water Missions International, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Fisher Recycling and Palmetto Medical Initiative. After 10 years of solid growth, Trio is now at the forefront of marketing and communication services in the Carolinas. “We strive to provide our clients with one-on-one, individualized services,” Munday said. “It’s our goal that each project we put our name on has gone beyond meeting the client’s expectations.”
505 Belle Hall Parkway, Suite 202 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-216-0442 | www.trio-solutions.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Palmetto Primary Care Physicians
With more than 70 clinical providers in 23 locations, Palmetto Primary Care Physicians provides patient-centered health care to more than 300,000 families in the Lowcountry.
Palmetto Primary Care Physicians provides seamless, convenient health care
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s the Lowcountry’s leaders in primary medical care, Palmetto Primary Care Physicians provides seamless and convenient health care to more than 300,000 residents of our metropolitan area. These astute health care providers are not only your neighbors and friends, they are also some of the most well-respected physicians and specialists in the Southeast. “We have 32 physicians that are currently nationally recognized by the National Committee of Quality Assurance for diabetes care,” said Vivian Barajas, director of marketing. “Our primary, urgent care and internal medicine physicians are here to make sure our patients receive the perfect balance of medicine and wellness to attain the healthiest lifestyle possible.” With patient records securely housed within the organization’s complex computer system, Palmetto Primary Care Physicians can further enhance a patient’s health care solutions by easily accessing all his medical history immediately. From routine visits to those with a specialist, patients don’t have to bother with coordinating their medical records among other doctors’ offices. “Keeping a patient’s up-to-date medical records in our system improves the level of convenience and care we offer our patients,” Barajas said, adding that it is “another benefit of being
treated by a Palmetto Primary Care physician.” Billing is also online, which adds another element of customer care. A patient can simply go online to view accounts and pay. Offering 23 medical office locations, these hometown professionals also offer a state-of-the-art diagnostic center that combines all of the testing procedures a patient might need into one location so that multiple tests can be run at a single, convenient location. Patient tests might include a stress test, ultrasound, CT scan, echocardiogram or diabetic eye screening. In addition to the diagnostic center, Palmetto Primary Care Physicians also offers an urgent care facility in North Charleston that is open until 10 p.m. daily. The facility offers all the necessary services that one would need in an urgent care situation. Same-day sport and back-to-school physicals are available, as are X-rays. Walk-ins are welcome and all insurance types are accepted. In today’s complex medical environment, Palmetto Primary Care Physicians is trying to achieve a customer service-based practice where the patient receives the undivided attention he deserves from the moment he walks in the door through a lifetime of care.
1516 Old Trolley Road | Summerville, SC 29485 843-735-7727 | www.palmettoprimarycare.com
10 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
eGroup
eGroup: Technology Solutions for Serious Competitors
An example of “any device, anywhere, any time,” eGroup delivers a Windows 7 desktop to an iPad.
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amed one of South Carolina’s Top 25 Fastest Growing companies by the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce for the past two years, and recognized as one of the fastest growing regional businesses the past four, eGroup has been one of the Southeast’s premier IT Solutions and Services providers for the past 11 years. “Simply put, eGroup is a visionary company with the ability to execute swiftly in a rapidly changing information technology landscape,” said Mike Carter, Principal, eGroup. Designing and deploying innovative and cost-effective technology solutions that enable customers to achieve a competitive advantage keeps eGroup prominently on the forefront of technology - especially as the industry shifts to
the uncharted new territory of cloud computing and secure application and information delivery. “As users demand consumer-style access to data and applications on any device, anywhere, at any time, our eGroup vSpecialist Team, staffed with experts in both private and public cloud technologies, are designing and delivering these solutions,” said Carter. “Our solutions drive our customers’ cost containment, revenue growth, or customer service objectives by addressing challenges associated with mobility, access to critical applications and data, along with security.” eGroup’s expertise and core competency is focused in three distinct areas: Cloud Services (public and private), Application Services, and End-User Computing. To deliver these solutions, eGroup has strategic partnerships with IT Industry leaders that include VMware, Cisco, and EMC, along with Citrix, Microsoft, and Trend Micro. eGroup is the only authorized Vblock certified partner headquarted in South Carolina. Named to the inaugural CRN Tech Elite 250 List, eGroup keeps its customers beyond satisfied with the ability to visualize and execute. “eGroup was instrumental in assessing our virtual environment and assisting us in moving to the next level in virtualization in a secure and reliable manner,” said John Davis, director of IS Operations, AgFirst Farm Credit Bank. “eGroup proved that they can deliver enterprise solutions in very large environments. We have found eGroup to be a valuable partner that can achieve results.” With the proliferation of end user devices like iPads, iPhones, Droids, MacBooks, and Blackberrys, executives are demanding secure access to their applications and data while also expecting optimal performance. “eGroup is unique in our ability to deliver these services rapidly to our customers,” said Carter, “we excel in our ability to deliver information technology solutions as quickly as executives define the need for them.” To learn how eGroup can help your business utilize progressive technologies to gain the competitive edge, contact eGroup today at 1-877-eGroup1.
1476 Ben Sawyer Blvd., Suite 1 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-284-0146 www.eGroup-us.com | blogs.eGroup-us.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Trident Technical College
Trident Technical College offers training in Professional and Organizational Development, Green Business and Sustainability, Manufacturing and Construction Trades, Information Technology and Health Care.
Trident Technical College offers state-ofthe-art continuing education training
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rident Technical College has racked up some impressive numbers. Last fall, enrollment exceeded 15,700, making TTC the second largest institution of higher learning in the state for undergraduate enrollment among all public and private colleges and universities. The college provides these students with more than 150 programs of study and 675 faculty and staff members to make their educational goals a reality. The numbers don’t stop there. In addition to credit courses, Trident Technical College offers noncredit programs that focus on developing the local economy through cutting-edge workforce training. The college’s Division of Continuing Education and Economic Development delivers more than 1,000 continuing education courses in classroom, online and on-site formats. The enrollment for continuing education courses at TTC topped 13,500 in 2010, resulting in 627,000 contact hours. “The division serves a continuum of needs, from adults looking for personal enrichment courses to those who’d like to start a new career or enhance their job skills,” said Skip Godow, vice president of Continuing Education and Economic Development.
Extensive training is available in computer technology, contracting and construction, culinary arts, environmental and safety compliance, floral and interior design, management and leadership, manufacturing, and small-engine repair, just to name a few. Fifty continuing education programs lead to national certifications; others to state licensure. From recertification courses for Boeing employees, to customer service training for every employee of the S.C. Ports Authority, to specialized skills training for companies including Alcoa, Kapstone, Bosch, Caterpillar and MWV, the Division of Continuing Education and Economic Development has created a breadth of training programs that are specific to the needs of area employers. Training can be offered at one of the college’s campuses or sites or at the workplace. The division’s newest emphasis has been to provide Business Training Solutions Managers as a single point of contact for individual companies for all of their training needs. This was a result of the division listening carefully to the community and responding quickly to new demands.
P.O. Box 118067 | Charleston, SC 29423 843-574-6022 | www.tridenttech.edu/ce.htm
12 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
1 Sterling Place Ltd.
1 Sterling Place Ltd.’s services offer peace of mind for property owners and tenants
Seated (from left): Shirley Adams, Krissy Sterchi and Claudia Corcoran. Standing (from left): Brian Bell, Rachel Lindsay and Jason Sikorski. Not pictured: Connie Samford.
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achel Lindsay isn’t just a property manager — she literally wrote the book on property management. And that’s what sets 1 Sterling Place Ltd. apart — a track record of keeping both its property owners and its residents happy. Lindsay, CEO and broker at 1 Sterling Place, wrote the company’s Resident Handbook© as a way of making clear the company’s responsibilities and those of the tenants. The three main goals for each property are: • Reduce the owner’s risk as a landlord. • Maintain the integrity of the property. • Maintain the cash flow. The three main goals for each tenancy are: • Obtain long-term tenants who pay the rent on time. • Help maintain the property. • Be good neighbors and make the house their home. Having the highest lease renewal rate in the area is a clear indication of 1 Sterling Place’s achievement of these goals. Most of the company’s managed properties have had income every day for many years.
“We keep your rental home working for you,” Lindsay said. “Whether you are a client (owner) or a customer (tenant), our goal is to give you peace of mind for all aspects of the rental property. From careful tenant selection to prompt response to maintenance to timely financial reporting, we keep your rental property working for you.” The company services the Charleston metro area and specializes in middle- and upper-income residential properties. The founding principle at 1 Sterling Place is: “Caring for your home like it’s our own.” For owners, the company offers both traditional property management as well as guaranteed payment and performance leasing programs. For tenants, it offers programs that reward superior-performing tenants. Lindsay, who gives presentations nationwide, said the keys to success for 1 Sterling Place have been careful attention to detail, timely responses to issues, strength of character and an emphasis on the human perspective of the relationship. As the economy has changed, the need for that strong, human relationship has grown. “In strong economic times, most clients are true investors,” Lindsay said. “In weaker economic times, most clients are ‘landlords by default.’ It was never their intention to rent the property, but slow sales drove the decision. Each type of client has their own needs and requirements.” At 1 Sterling Place Ltd., each client’s goals are reviewed annually, and the management plan is designed to meet those goals. Property management is a specialized industry. Going to the car salesman who sold you the car for servicing doesn’t make sense. Going to a sales company for servicing investment property also doesn’t make sense — plus it increases the risk to both owner and tenant. Lindsay has four goals to grow 1 Sterling Place: • To expand the company’s property base in the region. • To enhance programs for clients who are dealing with troublesome mortgage servicing agents. • To enhance programs that assist people who are renting from unscrupulous landlords. • To be the premier place to work for those in the property management industry.
P.O. Box 50487 | Summerville, SC 29485 843-875-0444 | www.1SterlingPlace.com
Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Coastal Structures
Coastal Structures Corp.: Turnkey construction specialists
20 Years Strong. Coastal Structures owner Harby Moses looks forward to leading his business to the next level.
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ith more than 20 years in business with the same owner at the helm, Coastal Structures Corp. calls Georgetown home. But the company is now doing business in the Charleston tri-county area, as well as Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet and Southport, N.C. Coastal Structures provides the highest standards of quality, service and commitment in the fields of commercial and industrial construction and renovations. Its current workload includes two renovation projects, as well as a 90,000-square-foot medical office building for Georgetown Hospital System. “We’ve also just been awarded the contract on the Santee Gun Club’s historic Blake House renovation in McClellanville,” said Harby Moses, owner of Coastal Structures. “This 7,700square-foot historic structure will ultimately be used as a facility for the state’s Department of Natural Resources.” Coastal Structures, hired by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, will retrofit the structure with new HVAC, interior and exterior siding, and roofing, in addition to other standards and upgrades. Since it was established in 1990, Coastal Structures has
grown steadily, earning its reputation for customer satisfaction by working in close partnership with its clients and assuring careful control over each project for private and government clients. A midsize, full-service contractor, the firm has the financial stability and bonding to offer the following services in its competitive range: building services, design-build capabilities, pre-engineered structures and structural concrete. Coastal Structures also recently completed a professional office in Mount Pleasant that features 10,745 square feet of office space for Laurel Bay Healthcare LLC. “This specific project illustrates our company’s diverse expertise,” Moses said. “We are seasoned in our abilities to do a number of custom projects, whether they are historic preservation, industrial or, in this case, commercial.” Known for its acute attention to detail, Coastal Structures prides itself on its state-of-the-art project accounting and an estimating system that is fully computerized. Coastal Structures tracks itemized project costs and subcontracts on a continuous, daily basis. With a history of providing the safest and most efficient construction trade services available in the building industry, this firm is known for its stellar reputation and longtime employee commitments. Most Coastal Structures employees have been working together for more than a decade. “As we expand into the Charleston tri-county area, you can count on us bringing our standard of excellence with us.”
Attention to detail, cost efficiency and communication are key to every Coastal Structures project, including this state-ofthe-art medical office building project in Murrells Inlet. 4293 Highmarket St. | Georgetown, SC 29442 843-546-4491 | www.coastalstructures.com
14 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Keepsakes Florist
Keepsakes Florist selected by brides as the best in the industry “We stand ready to take on more corporate work, whether it is for employees or customers or for special events.” Karen Spalviero Owner, Keepsakes Florist
Keepsakes Florist was voted Best of Weddings for 2011 on TheKnot.com
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hen a florist wins praise from a bride on her big day, it’s always appreciated. But when local brides vote to have a florist recognized as the best in the industry, it is quite an honor. Keepsakes Florist, located on Wappoo Drive on James Island, has enjoyed a banner year. Lowcountry brides loved the flower arrangements Keepsakes created for their weddings so much, they voted the shop Best of Weddings for 2011 on TheKnot.com and helped Keepsakes win the Bride’s Choice Award from Weddingwire.com. “We are extremely proud of these awards,” said Karen Spalviero, owner of Keepsakes Florist. “These awards are given based on votes by brides who have had their flowers and decorations done by us for their weddings.” But such accolades do not mean Spalviero plans to sit on her laurels. She is careful to stand behind her work and do what it takes to keep her customers happy. “We consistently provide top-quality product to our customers and, therefore, get referrals,” Spalviero said. “We shop
carefully for our flowers to find the freshest flowers at the best prices. This ensures that our product will last longer and provide better value.” Spalviero started Keepsakes out of her home in 1989, creating dried floral arrangements that were sold in shops and at craft shows. When the inevitable requests for fresh flowers started coming in, she moved to a commercial location at South Windermere Shopping Center. After several years, she and her staff of seven moved Keepsakes Florist to its James Island location in 2007. Keepsakes now offers fresh and silk flower arrangements, plants, gift baskets and balloons for delivery. Spalviero also does decorating and rentals for weddings and corporate events. “We stand ready to take on more corporate work, whether it is for employees or customers or for special events,” Spalviero said. In the face of tough economic times, Keepsakes Florist has focused on keeping overhead down by making the shop as efficient as possible in the space available. “We also buy from growers and have the flowers shipped in directly to get the best prices and the freshest product. “Our customers like the fact that they can call one place to take care of any floral orders they would like to have delivered,” Spalviero said. “If it’s out of our delivery area, we will happily send it on to another florist who can handle it. We stand behind our work and will do whatever is necessary to keep our customers happy.”
2000 Wappoo Drive, Suite A | Charleston, SC 29412 843-766-7807 | www.keepsakesflorist.net
Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
15
Spirit Telecom
When it comes to South Carolina telecom, it’s Spirit all the way “We are in a unique position to serve businesses no matter where they are in the Palmetto State.” Grey Humphrey Executive vice president of sales, Spirit Telecom
Spirit Telecom’s Charleston team: Grey Humphrey, executive vice president of sales; Walt Burnside, Charleston regional sales manager; Tim Tyler, director of sales for business markets.
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fter more than 20 years serving South Carolina businesses, Spirit Telecom knows what it takes to keep its clients in communication. After all, it is owned by the independent telephone companies of South Carolina and dedicated to serving South Carolina businesses by providing the latest technology in voice services, data networks and the Internet. Its Charleston office is located on Chuck Dawley Boulevard. “Our regional offices in Charleston and Greenville complement our ability to serve customers throughout the state,” said Grey Humphrey, executive vice president of sales for Spirit Telecom. “In addition to our regional cities, we also have network facilities in Florence.” With its headquarters in Columbia, Spirit has brought combined telecommunications services to South Carolina companies. It offers its clients a full range of voice, network, ondemand conferencing and Internet hosted solutions. The result: a single provider that can customize and seamlessly integrate the optimal telecom system for any company in any industry sector anywhere throughout the state via a dedicated circuit on its private secure network. With its own multiprotocol label
switching (MPLS) network and its servers housed right here in South Carolina, Spirit can guarantee a quality of service and a class of service on its network. It is owned by the independent telephone companies of South Carolina which are dedicated to serving South Carolina businesses by providing the latest technology in voice, data and Internet services. “Because we are owned by the independent telephone companies of South Carolina, we are in a unique position to serve businesses no matter where they are in the Palmetto State,” Humphrey said. Spirit’s approach is flexible, reliable, cost-effective and tailored to support productivity and business continuity that includes such services as: • Fully managed voice over IP • Data networks • Internet access and services • Local voice, long distance, and toll-free services • Conference calling • Private line services • Broadband services over an MPLS network Use of MPLS network technology provides a number of advantages. For one, it ensures that sensitive data is fully protected during transmission. For another, it allows for the control of bandwidth among voice, data and Internet. This combination of features is one of the reasons that the state of South Carolina chose Spirit as its provider of telecommunications services. Its dedication to providing new and innovative products within its existing markets and to expanding into new markets is paying off. In Grant Thornton’s 2010 list of the South Carolina 100, Spirit ranks 45th among the state’s largest privately held companies.
1037 Chuck Dawley Blvd., Suite D-210 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-881-9109 | www.spirittelecom.com
16 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Colliers International
Colliers International: Combining global strength with local expertise “We want to partner with each one of our clients to understand their goals, create solutions for them and deliver an excellent services product.” Hagood Morrison Principal & Senior Vice President, Colliers International
Back row (from left): Scott Rogers, Bobby Carrier, Mark Mattison, Peter Fennelly, Mike Flynn, Daniel Pellegrino, Erin England. Front row (from left): Kristin Tipton, Hagood Morrison, Simons Johnson, Seth Clark, Amanda Kitchen, Crystal Dickerson. Not pictured: John Orr.
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olliers International is a leader in commercial real estate services worldwide with 480 offices in 61 countries, and it continues to aggressively expand its market share. Colliers is ranked the No. 1 real estate company in the United States, according to Commercial Property Executive magazine. In addition, The Lipsey Co. ranked Colliers as the second most recognized commercial real estate brand in the world on its 2010 Commercial Real Estate Top Brands Survey. Colliers offers a comprehensive portfolio of services such as tenant representation, landlord representation, acquisition and disposition of buildings and land, project management, investment services, property management, receivership and valuation services. “We want to partner with each one of our clients to understand their goals, create solutions for them and deliver an excellent services product,” said Hagood Morrison, who comanages the office with Peter Fennelly.
Accelerating Success.
Colliers International has maintained a presence in Charleston since 1985 and recently experienced some of its best years yet, in spite of the economic recession. “This is an exciting time for us, because we’re seeing a huge focus on the Southeast as the country comes out of the recession,” Fennelly said. Colliers’ team recently handled the sale of several major properties including three industrial properties, the sale of 464 units in St. Charles Place Apartment Complex and the sale of a 239-acre mixed-use site in Myrtle Beach. In addition, Colliers recently represented tenants including Regus, SAIC, Qinetiq and Honeywell in the leasing of office space. “The importance of negotiating favorable terms in a commercial transaction cannot be overstated, especially in today’s business climate,” Fennelly said. Colliers’ Charleston office is rapidly growing and is adding agents and staff to meet the demands of its clients. New additions to the team include Mike Flynn and Scott Rogers, both specializing in Investment Brokerage; Seth Clark, Multifamily and Land Specialist; Bobby Carrier, Director of Property Management; and John Orr, Vice President, Retail. Colliers remains a major brokerage player in the retail, industrial and office sales and leasing markets while simultaneously gaining significant ground in property management and receivership projects. For more information, contact Colliers International to see how their market knowledge and industry expertise can accelerate your company’s success, 843-723-1202 or www. colliers.com.
151 Meeting St., Suite 350 | Charleston, SC 29401 843-723-1202 | www.colliers.com
Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
17
Quattlebaum Development
Diversification keeps Quattlebaum Development Co. growing
Alex III, Alex Jr., and Scott
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hen what is now Quattlebaum Development Co. began in 1927, its focus was general construction, building mostly roads in the Lowcountry. By the 1950s, the company was one of the state’s first design-build firms, providing industrial facilities for the fast-growing textile industry as well as other industries throughout the Southeast ranging from paper to aluminum extrusion. By the 1970s, Alex Quattlebaum Jr. established the first Foreign Trade Zone in South Carolina. In 1975, the company relocated to Charleston and shifted its focus to being a full-service industrial facilities provider. Today, the company — run by Alex Quattlebaum III and Scott Quattlebaum — takes a hands-on approach to the management of industrial and commercial developments. With approximately 2 million square feet in its inventory, the company owns
McQueen Park in Jedburg, Cainhoy Park and McCall Center in North Charleston, Tri-County Industrial Park in Summerville, Foreign Trade Zone 38 in Spartanburg and Florence Industrial Park. All the industrial properties are located within Foreign Trade Zones. Quattlebaum Development oversees the development process, from site location and design to construction and property management. Whether building a new facility or tailoring an existing facility to fit a company’s needs, Quattlebaum Development finds the right solution, completing projects quickly and efficiently. Some of its clients include Caterpillar Inc., Corning Inc., Levi Strauss, Chrysler Corp., Sunoco Products, Bosch Corp., La-Z-Boy Chair Co. and U.S. Lumber. “A diversification of our portfolio has paid off; while the industrial market has been soft over the last few years, we built McCall Center on International Boulevard with tenants such as Panera Bread, Starbucks, Verizon Wireless and more,” Scott Quattlebaum said. “We also completed a 100,000-squarefoot, climate-controlled self-storage building in downtown Charleston, managed by Extra Space, which had more moveins than any other storage facility in the area in the last 12 months. “Last year, we completed a Class ‘A’ industrial facility for Trumpf Medical Systems in Cainhoy Park. In addition, IMO USA and Perfection Clutch just signed long-term leases in McQueen Park and Cainhoy Park, respectively. We are building and leasing two facilities for CPM Federal Credit Union in North Charleston and Orangeburg. Fortunately, we have remained extremely busy, even in these trying economic times.” Beyond its work developing commercial and industrial facilities, the Quattlebaum family strives to have a larger impact. Each year, it gives two full merit scholarships to students at Presbyterian College. “Our grandfather started the Quattlebaum Scholarship 25 years ago and it has put more than 50 students through school on full scholarships, and the Quattlebaum family wants to continue the tradition,” Alex Quattlebaum, III explained.
1028 LeGrand Blvd. | Charleston, SC 29492 843-856-0799 | www.qdevco.com
18 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Ocean Surf Shop
From advice to gear, Ocean Surf Shop is the place for all things surfing
A photo of Ocean Surf Shop staff members who were not in the surf....
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efore you hang ten in the Atlantic Ocean, hang out at Ocean Surf Shop on Folly Beach, where the staff of surfers can provide you with the best information and equipment. Aside from selling surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, accessories and wetsuits, Ocean Surf Shop is the information hub for Folly. It’s where surfers go to get the stats on swells, conditions, weather, contests, traffic and events — all things going on at Folly Beach. That surfing knowledge is what made Ocean Surf Shop such a success over the past 30-some years, and owners Scott and Alex Quattlebaum continue to build on that reputation. Commitment to customer service and their passion for surfing is what will make Ocean Surf Shop continue to be successful. When they purchased the business last April, they renovated the space, giving it a fresh perspective, updating technology and equipment and adding new product lines. The staff of surfers is constantly trying new products and pays close attention to customers’ opinions about the needs of the local surfing community — a strategy that helps the business grow, said Bates Hagood, general manager.
“We really try to pay attention to what people are saying we are doing right and what we are doing wrong,” Hagood said. “We are fortunate that we love what we do and are very passionate about it, so we think it is a healthy part of our business that fun is a big part of what we do on a daily basis.” As a boutique surf shop dedicated to serving its customers, the staff can slide a surfboard onto a pair of sawhorses and get to work while the customer watches. “Whether you are heading to Puerto Rico for reef breaks in winter or surfing summer wind-swells at the Washout on Folly Beach, we offer a deep and unique knowledge of local and international surf conditions to get people of all surfing abilities into the waves with the right equipment,” Hagood says. The staff takes the time to learn about each customer’s surfing abilities and needs — all in a nonthreatening environment. “Joining the growing fraternity of surfers can be a bit intimidating for a novice — we have all been there — so we try to offer helpful and friendly advice to get people into the waves at a pace (and on gear) that suits them,” Hagood explains. That doesn’t mean the staff doesn’t mind learning a trick or two from its customers. “If you’re a hard-core charger who just got back from going feral while surfing unknown point breaks in Nicaragua, please bring us a map,” Hagood said. “We’d love to poach your new favorite secret spot — don’t worry, we won’t tell a soul where it is.”
Bates Hagood, surfing is my business, and business is good!
31 Center St. | Folly Beach, SC 29439 843-588-9175 | www.oceansurfshop.com
Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
19
RG Advocates – medical bill solutions
RG Advocates: Navigating the health care maze for you
Robin Giangrande, Owner & Medical Billing Advocate
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s healthcare reform continues to unfold daily, businesses and consumers are realizing that they need help navigating the complex maze of medical bills and insurance coverage to identify mistakes, overcharges and inappropriate billing practices. RG Advocates steps into this challenge as the only firm of its kind in South Carolina that takes over for individuals and businesses when it comes to managing the paperwork and the relationship between patients, providers and insurance companies. “According to national studies, eight out of 10 medical bills contain mistakes,” said Robin Giangrande, owner and director of RG Advocates. “These mistakes take money directly out of patients’ pockets and business’s bottom line and can cause health insurance premiums to increase unnecessarily.” RG Advocates offers a wide range of services designed to protect the insured, underinsured and uninsured from billing
errors, duplicate charges, charges for services never received and charges that greatly exceed what is “fair and reasonable.” This firm has the tools and expertise to save you time and money. RG Advocates assists clients throughout South Carolina and other states. From helping the adult child of an aging parent dealing with Medicare issues to assisting families experiencing a medical crisis and facing a barrage of medical bills from doctors and hospitals, RG Advocates allows its clients to rest assured that they are protected and their healthcare dollars are maximized. Business can also benefit from the expertise of RG Advocates. “Employers want employees to be satisfied with their insurance coverage, but there will inevitably be problems with bills and claims. Employees try to resolve the issues during work hours, lowering productivity and morale.” RG Advocates recognizes that it may be unrealistic for someone in a busy human resources department to solve these problems for employees. They generally do not have the expertise to resolve issues between insurance carriers and medical providers, and employees are reluctant to share private medical information and personal family situations with their employer. RG Advocates can step into this void, resolving complicated issues while keeping employees focused on their work. Giangrande brings more than 25 years experience in healthcare administration and as a litigation paralegal to her work as a medical billing advocate. As a certified member of Medical Billing Advocates of America, RG Advocates can also draw on the expertise of a nationwide network of advocates, nurses, lawyers, physicians and medical coding specialists. RG Advocates is compliant with all federal privacy requirements (HIPAA) and uses its industry expertise and objectivity to evaluate for its clients — both individuals and businesses — how best to utilize their insurance coverage and control costs. To see how RG Advocates can work for you, contact Robin Giangrande today at 843-637-4757 for a free consultation and visit www.RGadvocates.com for more information and resources.
P.O. Box 937 | Goose Creek, SC 29445 843-637-4757 | www.RGadvocates.com
20 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Precision Walls Inc.
Precision Walls offers integrity, experience, competitive pricing, financial strength, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to ensure projects are completed on time.
Since its founding, Precision Walls has focused on safety, quality and customers
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t Precision Walls Inc., it’s all about the customer. Whether it’s a relatively simple job, like adding a door to an office, or a multimillion-dollar project, each customer and each project gets the same level of commitment. “When you call Precision Walls, you reach people who care and who are committed to the industry,” said Brian Allen, company president. “We are an experienced, well-trained team that is willing to go to any length to get the job done right.” Precision Walls is a family owned and operated specialty contractor headquartered in Raleigh, N.C. Since Allen’s parents started the business in 1964, the company has grown to 1,000 employees with customers all over the Southeast. The company is often recognized by Engineering News Record as one of the top 10 wall and ceiling contractors in the United States. The company’s pioneering work in the area of moveable and specialty wall systems has allowed it to triple its volume in the last few years. Yet, “walls” in the traditional sense is just one piece of what Precision Walls offers its customers. Other products and services include: light-gauge and load-bearing metal framing; commercial drywall; acoustical ceilings; exterior insulation and finishing systems; fire stop systems; demountable partitions;
exterior panel systems; light-gauge metal trusses; panelization; operable and accordion partitions; projection screens; and residential drywall and paint. Precision Walls also owns and operates one of the most advanced exterior panelization and truss facilities in the Southeast. “Much of Precision Walls’ success has derived from our ability to recruit knowledgeable and skilled employees and to diversify our construction capabilities as market and business conditions indicated,” Allen said. “We have become as comfortable and capable at building residential high-rises as working on high-technology projects. There is truly no job too large or too small for Precision Walls.” Precision Walls has a lengthy list of accolades recognizing the company’s unwavering commitment to quality, safety and its growth in the construction industry. Those awards are a testament to Precision Walls’ team members, who believe in and implement the company’s mission and core principles, including making safety, quality and customer service No. 1 priorities. “Our goal is to have the company viewed by our customers as delivering the highest standards of customer service in the industry,” Allen said.
7317 Peppermill Parkway North Charleston, SC 29418 843-793-6020 | www.precisionwalls.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Charlestowne Hotels Inc.
Charlestowne Hotels Inc. offers innovative, proven expertise in full-service hospitality management
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harlestowne Hotels Inc. is a full-service hospitality management company founded in 1980 by Everett L. Smith Jr. The company has become one of the most successful firms in the hospitality industry and one of the largest hotel management companies in the Southeast. The company works with 26 properties in five Southeastern states, and two in Wyoming, providing each of them with operations management, revenue management, public relations, marketing and e-commerce marketing, accounting, hotel development, hotel receivership, condo management, consulting and special projects guidance. The key to success, said Partner and Senior Vice President Michael Tall, has been in the company’s selective hiring and business strategies. “We consistently search for and hire highly driven
individuals who are the top in their field,” Tall said. “We then utilize industry-leading strategies that allow our company to stay ahead of competition in all aspects of the hospitality industry. Because of this, our hotels not only outperform their markets financially, but also consistently receive the highest accolades from guests and industry rating services.” In 2009, Charlestowne Hotels added seven new contracts and 411 new rooms to its portfolio, including two additional AAA Four Diamond inns and a property recognized as South Carolina’s first green hotel. In 2010, an additional 888 rooms were brought under contract, including two North Carolina golf resorts and the company’s first contracts in the states of Virginia and Florida. Already in 2011, five properties totaling 983 additional rooms have been added.
28 Bridgeside Blvd. | Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-972-1400 | www.charlestownehotels.com
22 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Liquid Box
Liquid Box: The nation’s leader in liquid trucking “We’re all about giving back to the community. The Zamboni has been an amazing hit at the games for children and adults, too.” Scott Adams Co-owner, Liquid Box
On the road or on the ice, Liquid Box can handle it.
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ith ingenuity on its side, Liquid Box trucking and flexi-tank services is leading the liquid trucking industry nationwide by creating and building in-house equipment that solves mobile liquid transport issues. In addition, Liquid Box also is an industry leader in dry, overweight and legal container services for the intermodal transportation industry. “We are consistently raising the bar throughout our industry, especially when it comes to our in-house designs that make shipping liquids overseas 40% cheaper than in an ISO tank,” said Scott Adams, co-owner of Liquid Box. “Our custom-designed products and full-service implementation is a technologically sound and safer way of transport.” Adams, a former trucker, and his wife, Michele, who has 15 years of experience as a dispatcher, designed Liquid Box’s superior custom products using their combined trucking experience in all aspects of the industry. I understood what was needed, so I went and designed my own products and pumps,” Adams said. Today, Liquid Box has six branches located in Savannah, Norfolk, Va., Jacksonville, Fla., Louisville, Ky., Chicago and Memphis, Tenn., in addition
to its home base in Charleston. The company is not a franchised operation. Liquid Box’s dry and liquid transportation methods have the ability to save a company tens of thousands of dollars per month. Liquid Box can handle overweight and legal loads, transloading of all types of tankers, plus full-service flexi-tank operations, cross docking and flatbed, and it offers overall problem-solving services. Liquid Box transports goods globally for some of the biggest industries in the world. “I’ve now designed a smaller, quicker pump, in addition to production on our steamer and heater pads that continue to further revolutionize liquid transport here in America and overseas,” Adams said. “This technological design on its own will allow a customer to save an exorbitant amount of money.” Outside of work, Adams likes to have a little fun and has been a major sponsor of the S.C. Stingrays for the past three years. Liquid Box’s custom-hotrod, music-blaring Zamboni is one of only two of its kind in the nation. The other belongs to the Dallas Stars NHL team. “We’re all about giving back to the community,” Adams said. “The Zamboni has been an amazing hit at the games for children and adults, too.” Most recently, several children with disabilities rode the Zamboni during a Stingrays game. “They had so much fun on the ice, we ended up driving them through the parking lot before letting them off,” Adams said. “We can usually pack about 23 kids on board.” Liquid Box encourages everyone to join them and the Stingrays next season at a hockey game and ride the LIQUID BOX FANZAM!
3100 Pacific St. | North Charleston, SC 29418 843-745-0023 | www.LiquidBox.us
Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Palmetto State E-cademy
Virtual public high school provides nontraditional learning environment for S.C. students
Social activities let students spend time with friends!
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raditional classroom settings don’t work for all students, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t talented individuals with great potential. Given the right environment, they can graduate and be successful. In fact, that is the purpose of Palmetto State E-cademy, a virtual high school serving the state of South Carolina. In 2007, the state Legislature approved the use of virtual schools for students seeking a nontraditional learning environment. Parents, educators and community members around the state joined forces to create PSE with state-of-the-art technology, experienced teachers and a diligent governing board. “The students who come to Palmetto State E-cademy are motivated and want to finish school but need a nontraditional, flexible program to complete their education,” said Dr. Barbara Stoops, executive director. “PSE exists to meet the needs of these special students and provide an avenue for them to continue their education and earn a high school diploma.” PSE is different from other virtual schools in that it is focused only on the Palmetto State. All the teachers live in South Carolina,
are certified to teach in the state and have an average of 10 years of teaching experience; in fact, 80% have master’s degrees. At PSE, students choose from one of four academic tracks. Instructors work with students on a personalized, yearlong learning program. Target deadlines are set within each course to help students budget their time and stay on task. Over the course of a year, a typical student may take three to four courses per block, up to six full-year courses, or any combination thereof. Courses include core academic areas of math, language arts, science and social studies, as well as electives in areas such as world languages, business and marketing, digital technologies, fine/visual/performing arts, life/study skills and physical education. PSE’s partnership with Southern Wesleyan University provides a dual credit option for its students. The program is free and students who participate can earn as many as 30 university credits while completing their high school educational requirements. “I believe our biggest draw for new students is the opportunity to graduate from high school in a time frame that is based upon the student’s needs following one of four different tracks to create a schedule that is unique to each student,” Stoops said.
I can complete high school on my time.
115 Atrium Way, Suite 200 Columbia, SC 29223 PSEcademy.org
24 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
SCJobmarket.com
SCJobMarket.com connects local employers with local candidates
Melissa Verzaal, SCJobMarket.com account executive
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nline and local. The recruiting service SCJobMarket. com captures the best of both worlds. The service combines the speed, efficiency and economy of the Internet with local knowledge and good, old-fashioned customer service to successfully connect local employers with local candidates. SCJobMarket.com account executive Melissa Verzaal says, “I provide the difference between using a big national site and a site that is focused only on South Carolina. I have a relationship with the employers posting jobs, and they know they can call me for technical help or help with wording the job descriptions on the site. Because I live here, I know the state and what works in South Carolina.” Verzaal says, “There are several advantages in using a job site that is owned and operated by the local publishers of the region’s business newspapers, SC Biz News. Candidates tend to be of a higher quality because they are usually located within the area of the job being offered, are focused on local jobs and are not
just ‘shotgunning’ their resumes nationally or internationally. In addition, skills, education and experience levels trend higher within the readership of the business publications.” Because Internet recruiting is quicker, easier and more costeffective than other methods, SCJobMarket.com can efficiently serve small and large firms. The company offers single job postings for companies that have the occasional hiring need and packages that range from multiple to unlimited job postings for companies that hire more frequently. The clean design and easy online interface allow jobs to be posted and viewed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, giving job seekers and employers access to results on any schedule. Employers posting jobs can also post a company profile page. Verzaal says, “Posting a company profile that includes a description of the company and logo is a wonderful way to market your company and look for job candidates at the same time.” SCJobMarket.com is a division of SC Biz News, the publishers of the Charleston Regional Business Journal, the Columbia Regional Business Report, GSA Business and SCBIZ magazine. For more information on SCJobMarket.com, contact Melissa Verzaal directly at 843-849-3104 or mverzaal@scbiznews.com.
389 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 200 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-849-3130 | www.scjobmarket.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
25
Charleston Defense Contractors Association
Charleston Defense Contractors: Supporting Charleston’s defense industry
Jack Moore, President, Charleston Defense Contractors Association
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harleston continues to be an integral player in the nation’s defense industry. The Charleston Defense Contractors Association (CDCA) is in place to represent more than 130 companies in the Lowcountry that provide services to the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR), in addition to more than 3,000 civil servants and the 12,000 contractors in the area. A nonprofit organization, CDCA was created in 2001 to provide an organized voice for those in the defense industry to advocate, protect and preserve the economic interests of its
members, customers and the community. Members of CDCA provide an array of professional and technical services to its customers, who happen to represent a substantial piece of the local employment base and provide many of the area’s high-tech, high-paying jobs. “Our mission is to provide key services to our members throughout the tri-county area,” said Jack Moore, president of CDCA. “Through lobbying, industry recruiting for specialized positions, donations to school programs, in-office interns and a commitment to investing in the area’s students, we are involved in our community.” CDCA is currently investing early in South Carolina’s students by donating to local elementary and secondary schools for math and science programs that will ultimately assist in placing college students in internship positions at its member companies and lead to careers in this specialized industry. CDCA also spotlights the importance of the SPAWAR organization and its 3,000 civil servants to the local community. This military organization is supported by 12,000 contractors that supply C4ISR services. C4ISR stands for command and control, communications and computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. By various names, SPAWAR has local roots that date back several decades. Its original mission was to provide electronics equipment for the ship hulls that were constructed on the former Charleston Naval Complex. That base ceased operations in 1996, but the electronics division remained. It officially became SPAWAR Atlantic in October 2008. Today, SPAWAR provides high-tech military solutions for vehicles and other products aimed at assisting the soldiers in combat and preserving America’s military prowess. In 2008, SPAWAR’s total authority was $5.2 billion, with about half of those funds directed to contractors represented by CDCA. “Since we got started, we have grown exponentially,” Moore said. “We will continue to make the tri-county area a player in the defense industry through our broad ranges of services.” For more information, visit www.charlestondca.org or call 843-425-3080.
P.O. Box 61089 | Charleston, SC 29419 843-425-3080 | www.charlestondca.org
26 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
DWG Consulting Engineers
Listen, consult, sustain – three words that define DWG Consulting Engineers “Our goals are to recruit and employ only the most talented people for our familyfriendly work-life culture, encourage and support continuous improvement.” Phil Dalpiaz Principal, DWG Consulting Engineers
DWG Senior Principals Mike Weeks and Phil Dalpiaz.
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rom the time you walk in the door at DWG Consulting Engineers, it is apparent that DWG team members take the work they do for clients very seriously. When listening to team members, you hear enthusiastic discussion about their desire to “add value” to working relationships. DWG calls this philosophy “consulting engineering.” One may ask, “How are consulting engineers different?” Mike Weeks, DWG principal, said: “A consultant is a professional who owns a specific set of professional skills and a demonstrated depth of experience. He or she approaches each project by preparing for meetings and subsequent interactions with the client — they provide answers, not just ask questions. In this way, DWG’s team members present their value-added approach and look for confirmation of their ideas. They listen and integrate the clients’ input into their approach and designs.” Their unique consulting approach was evident recently when Ken Hill, construction manager at Roper St. Francis Healthcare, said: “The DWG team’s engineers and designers were dedicated to and motivated by their goal of recognizing difficult project requirements early on and creating innovative
solutions. ... They were committed to our project’s success and driven by its uniqueness. They went beyond my expectations and demonstrated unparalleled conviction to be on time and on budget. ... Clearly DWG is the most responsive engineering firm I have ever worked with.” It’s no surprise the Roper St. Francis Healthcare project Hill referenced earned DWG the 2010 ACEC-SC Engineering Excellence award. Phil Dalpiaz, DWG principal, stated: “What allows us to approach our projects this way really starts with our people. Our goals are to recruit and employ only the most talented people for our family-friendly work-life culture, encourage and support continuous improvement ... and then empower our people to exceed our clients’ expectations.” DWG is headquartered in Mount Pleasant and has worked with a broad spectrum of clients for almost 40 years. The firm began its operation in Savannah and now serves clients throughout the Southeast and mid-Atlantic regions. The firm’s focus areas include education, civic, health care, hospitality, commercial and government/federal, with an ever-increasing emphasis on LEED sustainability. The company is a fullservice, federally and locally certified small business that provides mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection and communications design services. DWG specializes in technical, economic and feasibility studies; assessments of existing facilities; design of HVAC systems; plumbing; fire protection; lighting; power; data distribution; and project commissioning. Listen, consult, sustain. Three words that represent the way DWG Consulting Engineers does business.
1009 Anna Knapp Blvd., Suite 202 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-849-1141 | www.dwginc.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Auxano Solutions
At Auxano Solutions, the best in business IT begins with an emphasis on security
Auxano Solutions Team: Jordan Moyer (from left), Mary JoChitwood, Todd Southern, Rick Chitwood, Kevin Kramer and Ansley Sliker
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hen Charleston companies need the best in IT business solutions consulting, they have a resource right here in town. Auxano Solutions is a locally owned and operated firm specializing in needs assessment, design, implementation and support of secure computer networks of all sizes. “Our focus is on secure solutions that increase our clients’ efficiency and effectiveness,” said Rick Chitwood, Auxano Solutions’ CEO and founder. “At Auxano Solutions, our clients are family. We offer them only the best products, to include managed services, email encryption, backup and cloud solutions.”
One of Auxano Solutions’ strengths lies in its many partnerships, including alliances with first-rank vendors Apple, RIM Blackberry, Cisco, Citrix, Dell, Fujitsu, Google, HewlettPackard, Microsoft and Symantec. These partnerships — a who’s who of major hardware and software suppliers — give the Auxano Solutions team of IT consultants an unprecedented range of skills. Another strength is Auxano Solutions’ emphasis on timely implementation, security and diligence. Recently, Auxano Solutions moved an entire cancer center IT infrastruture to a new office building over a weekend, with no downtime, coordinating the move for the network, along with workstations and other equipment for 150 employees. “We took down the data center on Friday, and it was up on Monday, with everyone connected to email and the Internet as if they’d never left the office,” Chitwood said. “Even the medical practice didn’t think it would happen. But we made it happen.” That emphasis on security is why thus far about 90% of Auxano Solutions’ clients are in the medical field. “HIPAA compliance is about security,” Chitwood pointed out. “And we stay abreast of HIPAA changes that a practice might not yet be aware of.” Auxano Solutions has completed numerous electronic medical records implementations and is a leader in the market. Now, Auxano Solutions’ goal is to become a trusted brand for all IT business solutions in Charleston and the surrounding area. The firm has outgrown its original office and recently relocated to larger quarters in Mount Pleasant. “Today’s IT projects bring about more than just functional challenges,” Chitwood said. “Issues such as security, scalability, redundancy, information architecture and speed of performance are just a few of the criteria that must be evaluated in the early stages of planning an information technology project.” Auxano Solutions offers new clients a complimentary on-site assessment of their business network. To find out how Auxano Solutions can help you grow, contact Ansley M. Sliker at Ansley@auxanosolutions.com or 843-654-1808.
940 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 205 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-654-1808 | www.AuxanoSolutions.com Follow Auxano on Facebook
28 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Frampton & Associates Inc.
Frampton & Associates known for its honesty, integrity and quality construction “We’ve been doing this for 35 years. Lots of contractors come and go, but we’re here to stay.” Charles Frampton President, Frampton & Associates Inc.
J. Chad Frampton, Vice President and Charles T. Frampton, President.
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wo tests stand out for a general contractor such as Frampton & Associates Inc. — the test of time and that of attracting repeat customers. With Charles Frampton’s 35 years of experience and leadership, he has 3,000 projects in his portfolio. The familyowned business has stood the test of time with integrity and has passed with flying colors the test of satisfying customers. Charles and Denise Frampton started the company in 1993. Previously, Charles had been a partner in another general contracting company. Now their son, Chad Frampton, and daughter, Jennifer Frampton Pait, are part of the company, as well. “Our company prides itself on quality construction,” Charles Frampton said. “We’ve been doing this for 35 years. Lots of contractors come and go, but we’re here to stay.” In a tough economy, honesty and integrity make Frampton & Associates stand apart from its competition. “We don’t just tell the customer what they want to hear in order to get the job,” Pait said. “And we’re not a change order company. Some contractors will lowball a project in order to
get the contract and then turn around and eat the client up with change orders. Our customers appreciate how much attention we pay to the budget and the schedule.” Frampton and Associates has assembled a team of qualified subcontractors who are as dedicated to the job as they are. They work closely with their subcontractors in value engineering each trade and meeting deadlines, which saves the client money. The recently completed Nason Medical Center building on Rivers Avenue is a great example. The client wanted the office open before the end of 2010, and Frampton & Associates was able to complete vertical construction within 15 weeks without sacrificing quality. “Our subcontractors all pulled together, worked nights and weekends, and met the deadline,” Pait said. “That pace is unprecedented by anyone else in this industry, and without the correct leadership and team cooperation it would not have been possible.” That team effort has gained the company local, regional and national awards. But Chad Frampton said the best award comes in the form of satisfied customers who return to Frampton & Associates with repeat business. Over the years, Frampton & Associates has expanded its vision from pre-engineered buildings to a much wider array of construction approaches. The company is a full-service construction firm providing a comprehensive portfolio of innovative project development, management and construction services to clients throughout South Carolina for new construction, renovations and expansions.
P.O. Box 737 | Ladson, SC 29456 843-572-2400 www.framptonandassociates.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Atlantic Shield Insurance Group
Atlantic Shield Insurance is dedicated to offering exceptional service “Our specialty in personal lines has been especially beneficial for those households spending over $5,000 annually for their personal insurance needs.” Hill Shaw Principal Partner, Atlantic Shield
Erik Loesch, CIC, and Hill Shaw, Principal Owners
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uying insurance from an agent is similar to hiring a lawyer or an accountant. You must be able to have a close relationship with your agent and trust that he or she will represent your best interest at all times. In the case of Atlantic Shield Insurance Group, developing that personal relationship with clients has been paramount to the firm’s success and has been the most rewarding aspect of the business for its partners. “Our growth has averaged 40% per year over the last four years,” said Hill Shaw, a principal partner in Atlantic Shield along with Erik Loesch, CIC. “Over 90% of that growth is coming not from advertising, but from personal and professional referrals within the community.” This customer loyalty gives Shaw a sense of satisfaction that Atlantic Shield is succeeding in offering highquality personalized service. Atlantic Shield offers a variety of personal and commercial insurance policies, and the company is able to choose from an array of carriers to find the best product to suit each client’s circumstances.
“Our specialty in personal lines has been especially beneficial for those households spending over $5,000 annually for their personal insurance needs,” Shaw said. “We’ve found that these policyholders have been able to take the greatest advantage of what our agency has to offer. Our carrier partners, our knowledge of the local insurance marketplace and our continuous commitment to exceptional service standards have made us a good fit with clients who have premium-level insurance needs.” Any insurance client who hasn’t received at least one phone call from his agent in the past year isn’t getting adequate service. According to Shaw, a client who is paying more than $5,000 in premiums per year has a good deal of exposure and should feel assured that his insurance plan is addressing his risks. Homeowners and business owners should never put their insurance policies on cruise control, Shaw said. Clients and their insurance agents should speak about any changes in the client’s life and how those changes could impact the integrity of his coverage plan. For many policyholders, multiple conversations are needed every year. “If you are not having these conversations, you should contact your agent and ask why this is not happening,” Shaw said. “A conscientious agent will be in touch with clients to review any new exposures and make sure coverage is always up to date.” If you are not having frequent and relevant conversations with your insurance agent, consider contacting Atlantic Shield for the personal attention you deserve.
1127 Queensborough Blvd., Suite 101 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-856-2909 | atlanticshield.com
30 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Charleston Crab House
Charleston Crab House — Family Owned for 20 Years and Still Crackin’
Crabs being delivered dockside to owner John Keener and chef Ricky Fyall.
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elebrating 20 years of serving the finest seafood in the Lowcountry, the Charleston Crab House is one of a few restaurants in the area that can brag about still having the original owner at the helm. It also boasts a clientele that includes Lowcountry families and celebrities alike. “Our 20th anniversary this year has given us the opportunity not only to look back, but to also thank our loyal patrons that have made us the success we are today,” said John Keener, owner. “We are looking forward to the future with
now three locations that are all committed to great food and excellent customer service.” Using South Carolina shrimp, fish and a number of other local products and produce, the Charleston Crab House keeps Lowcountry customers coming back for more. And with fresh, local stone and blue crabs being delivered directly to the dock at the James Island location, it’s no wonder Charleston resident Eddie Buck Sr. has been a loyal customer since the restaurant opened. “My family and I have really enjoyed dining at the Charleston Crab House for the past 20 years,” Buck said. “Whether entertaining clients or having a family outing, I know that I am always going to get fresh seafood, terrific service and a great atmosphere.” Each of the Crab House’s three locations offers its own charm. The downtown location includes rooftop dining, while the James Island location has both indoor and outdoor seating on the Intracoastal Waterway. Across the Cooper River, the Mount Pleasant restaurant touts a rustic, woodsy atmosphere that is very quaint. Banquet rooms are available upon request for groups and special occasions. Celebrities visiting Charleston love the Charleston Crab House, too. Tennis star Serena Williams recently listed the restaurant as her favorite local eating experience. Jay Leno, Hulk Hogan, Jon Bon Jovi and Dallas Cowboys football star Tony Romo also have made their way to the restaurant to enjoy local specialties, including the signature Charleston Crab House Crab Pot. This famous mixture of fresh crabs, shrimp, mussels, corn and potatoes has been a longtime favorite, in addition to the restaurant’s famous Charleston Shrimp & Grits and WasabiEncrusted Tuna. The Crab House also offers an annual crab leg eating contest where customers of all ages come out for the event. Fun is had by all, and the food can’t be beat. Charleston Crab House — Family Owned for 20 Years and Still Crackin’. For more information, visit www.CharlestonCrabHouse.com or call 843-795-1963. You can also find them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @ChsCrabHouse.
145 Wappoo Creek Drive | Charleston, SC 29412 843-795-1963 | www.CharlestonCrabHouse.com
Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Superior Transportation
Careful attention to safety and exceptional customer service are hallmarks of Superior Transportation’s success
Superior operates modern, EPA-compliant equipment like this 2010 International ProStar tractor, utilizing the most fuel-efficient components available.
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uperior Transportation celebrated its 13-year anniversary in April. That’s a worthy milestone for any trucking company operating in this highly competitive industry, which is beset by high employee turnover, is at the whim of fluctuating fuel prices and that struggles with its public image on the road. It’s a particular coup, as many businesses lost their footing during the recession. Owner Pat Barber credits the success of Superior Transportation to his mantra: “We don’t do business with businesses; we do business with people.” That applies to the heavy haul company’s clients and its employees. “There’s no way I could have come this far without my people,” Barber said. “In this industry, a truck driver might have four or five jobs a year. A lot of my employees have been with me from the beginning.” Barber said he treats his 45 employees the same way he does his clients: with respect. It’s worth the cost of providing a competitive wage and benefits to keep drivers and management on staff, he said. The longevity factor is also important when it
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comes to safety. His concern is not only for his drivers, but also for the public with whom Superior Transportation trucks share the highways. Barber holds his drivers to the highest of safety standards. He consistently reinforces to his employees the message that their behavior on the road dictates the reputation of both Superior Transportation and the trucking industry as a whole. To that end, all of Barber’s trucks include a “1-800” number that motorists can call if they see a Superior Transportation truck misbehaving. “By and large,” Barber said, “most of the phone calls we receive are positive.” The 25,000-square-foot Superior Transportation headquarters building is located in North Charleston off Hanahan Road on a sprawling 10-acre campus. The company specializes in hauling awkward-shaped cargo — such as windmills, bridge girders and coal mine support shields — that does not fit on a normal semi-truck. Superior Transportation can carry loads up to 200 feet long, compared to the 40- to 48-foot-long loads that a normal truck can carry. Some of its biggest projects include hauling materials for BMW Co., General Electric and Eastman Chemical, as well as materials for the construction of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and demolition of the old Cooper River bridges. “We are able to handle complex movements of large freight by combining truck, rail and barge modes of transportation,” Barber said. “Our skilled team can conduct route surveys, load, lash and secure heavy, over-dimensional cargoes, as well as handle your packing, crating and warehousing needs. “We go after work that not many other companies can get at because of the specialized equipment required and the economic barrier to entry.” A native of Charleston, Barber started his career in the trucking industry at just 14 years old, working for his father’s heavy-duty towing business. That experience ignited in him a passion for logistics that carried into adulthood. “I love what I do. It’s a challenge every day,” Barber said. “I love the planning and the execution. I love to help people solve problems. And I’ve made a lot of good friends through this business.”
1940 Hanahan Road | North Charleston, SC 29406 843-740-1840, 1-800-736-9486 www.superiortransportation.us
32 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Commonwealth – Brown & Brown, a subsidiary of Brown & Brown Inc.
Commonwealth – Brown & Brown finds its business focus is just the right size “We have overcome challenges and adversity through persistence and open communication with our teams.” Todd Tyler Executive vice president, Commonwealth - Brown & Brown
Matthew Moore (from left), Todd Tyler, Chris Cook
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ommonwealth – Brown & Brown operates under the motto “Big enough to deliver. Small enough to care.” The company has been rooted in the community since it began as a small business 13 years ago. Last summer, Commonwealth partnered with Brown & Brown, one of the world’s largest insurance brokers, giving the company the backing of a much larger business. For the owners, it’s the best of the both worlds — large business resources with a small business feel. Under the leadership of Todd Tyler, Matthew Moore and Chris Cook, Commonwealth – Brown & Brown provides workers’ compensation, liability, property, commercial automobile and umbrella insurance for businesses, as well as risk management, benefits brokerage and select personal lines insurance. One of the firm’s distinguishing products is RECON 365, a proprietary risk management process that combines education, communication and consultation. The RECON 365 Process partners a business with a team of risk management and health and welfare consultants working together to allow the business owner to focus on growing their business. The team from Commonwealth – Brown & Brown becomes the outsourced risk manager.
The RECON 365 Process has been a driving factor in Commonwealth – Brown & Brown’s success. “This process, combined with dogged determination and persistence, has helped us grow our revenue almost every single year since 1997,” said Todd Tyler, executive vice president. “We believe that we are in the insurance business, but we are also in the people-recruiting, growing and enhancing business. We are continuously recruiting good teammates who are not afraid of hard work and challenges.” Commonwealth – Brown & Brown brings in two to four new brokers each year, who take part in a sales training program that provides a specific track for their first 24 months on the job. “This roadmap gives our people benchmarks to measure against and ensures their success,” Tyler said. “We have overcome challenges and adversity through persistence and open communication with our teams.” While all business owners know success comes with a fair share of mistakes, they also know making bold moves can propel a business to the next level. In 2003, Commonwealth got out of the homeowners insurance business and sold off more than 80% of clients but only lost 17% of the revenue. “This move allowed us to focus on larger clients, and we grew over 50% per year over the next couple of years,” Tyler said. While the members of the executive team at Commonwealth – Brown & Brown believe in hard work and dedication, they also believe in the importance of family. Among the three partners’ families are 11 children, so they work hard at work — and at home. They coach various youth sports, and Commonwealth – Brown & Brown is the title sponsor of the Charleston Sprint Triathlon Series.
7515 Northside Drive, Suite 150 North Charleston, SC 29420 1-843-572-4567 | toll-free: 1-877-572-4567 www.cbbins.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Corporate & Consumer Publishing Division
SC Biz’s custom publishing division delivers premium products and excellent customer service “We have the ability to deliver turnkey projects, including origination of editorial content and photography, advertising sales, graphic layout and design, and distribution.” Mark Wright Director of Business Development, SC Biz News
Mark Wright, director of business development, and Allison Oliverius, special projects editor.
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C Biz News is the market leader in business publishing in South Carolina. In addition to publishing business newspapers in the three major metro areas of the state — the Charleston Regional Business Journal, the Columbia Regional Business Report and GSA Business — as well as SCBIZ magazine (a quarterly statewide business and economic development glossy publication), the company also publishes a diverse group of magazines within its Corporate & Consumer Publishing Division. Those titles include a quarterly community magazine, Lake Wylie Today; newcomer guides Intro Charleston, Intro Upstate, Allen Tate’s Navigator Triangle and Navigator Charlotte; the Port Directory and other publications of the S.C. State Ports Authority; Cities Mean Business, a publication of the Municipal Association of South Carolina; regional economic scorecards for Charleston and Greenville; and Energized, a guide to the nuclear
industries in North and South Carolina. “The corporate and consumer publishing division’s ability to deliver premium quality publications under strict deadlines can be directly attributed to the talented staff with deep experience in a broad range of publishing genres,” said Mark Wright, director of business development. “We have the ability to deliver turnkey projects, including origination of editorial content and photography, advertising sales, graphic layout and design, and distribution.” Allison Oliverius, special projects editor, began her career as a newspaper reporter and eventually moved into editing and project management. She has more than 18 years of newspaper and custom publishing experience. “I work with a team that understands that each publication must not only present content — writing, photography and other graphic elements — in a compelling way, but that a publication must also convey the client’s vision and mission,” Oliverius said. From independent business news journalism to consumer titles to trade publications to membership associations, SC Biz’s clients reap the benefits of working with an experienced staff motivated to deliver premium products and excellent customer service. For more information about how the Corporate & Consumer Publishing Division can help meet your publishing needs, contact Mark Wright directly at 843-849-3143 or mwright@ scbiznews.com.
Corporate & Consumer Publishing Division
34 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
389 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite 200 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-849-3100 | www.scbiznews.com
Advanced Automation Consulting
Advanced Automation Consulting Inc. believes even when it comes to information technology, people are the key “We believe in local resources for local projects and don’t utilize subcontractors.” John Denise President, Advanced Automation Consulting
AAC’s old-school approach includes owning their office building. “Nothing says stability like brick and mortar on the balance sheet.” John Denise
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he message at Advanced Automation Consulting Inc. is clear and consistent: The company helps solve the technology needs of its customers, but its foundation is working with people. President John Denise, who started the business in 2003, learned that strategy through experience. “I’d worked in the information technology consulting and staffing business for many years and had seen the good, the bad and the ugly of this business,” Denise said. “I was determined to create a company with a culture completely focused on doing the right thing for our clients and consultants.” The company, which has more than 40 employees, provides IT consulting and staffing services for companies of all sizes. This involves forging long-term partnerships with clients, thoroughly understanding their business and providing them the human capital required to improve their performance. “Our team works hand in hand with our client’s team at the client’s location to complete their projects as efficiently as possible,” Denise said. “Our services are not limited to any one
platform or technology and are completely tailored to what works best for each individual client. Services can be provided on either a contract basis, an option-to-hire basis or occasionally as a direct placement with the client. It all depends on the unique needs of the client.” The AAC staff perform a variety of roles for clients, ranging from network engineers all the way up to providing strategic consulting and CIO services. What really sets AAC apart from competitors is its oldfashioned approach to doing business. First, AAC puts its clients’ needs ahead of everything else. “It sounds simple, but it’s expensive and very rare in today’s world,” Denise said. This ties in with the second precept, that of hiring the most qualified personnel available and providing them with the ongoing support they need. This reduces turnover and helps mitigate personnel risks for the client’s project. The third principle is supporting economic development in the local community. “We don’t believe that outsourcing or flying in resources from out of town is in anyone’s best interest,” Denise said. “We believe in local resources for local projects and don’t utilize subcontractors. Everyone we assign to a client’s project is an AAC employee with outstanding benefits.” AAC has focused on achieving controlled, sustainable growth by focusing on long-term partnerships as opposed to chasing potentially large short-term deals. It is expanding by opening new offices throughout the Southeast. AAC is a graduate of the USC Columbia Technology Incubator and was an SC Launch company. In fact, the first company to pay back its SCRA investment with interest. Denise is proud of that, but he keeps his eyes on the real prize — helping clients. “The bottom line is that technology is an enabler, but people are the key to successfully implementing and leveraging technology. Better people simply provide better results.”
7891 Broad River Road | Irmo, SC 29063 803-726-4900 | www.AACsc.net
Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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C&C Warehouse
C&C Warehouse serves clients and the environment well
Jimmy Connelly, owner C&C Warehouse is one of the greenest public warehouse and distribution facilities in the Charleston region.
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&C Warehouse owner Jimmy Connelly has spent the last couple of years building and outfitting his new warehouse and distribution headquarters off College Park Road in Ladson, with features that will serve clients — and the environment — well. “I love this building,” Connelly said. “For one thing, I own the building and the land around it. Another is that I have room to expand another 100,000 square feet. I’ve learned a lot about energy efficiency and conservation and I’ve implemented as many things as I can afford. I have many things in place that meet LEED certifications that will not only save the company money, but make money. And, I plan to pass those future savings on to my customers in the long term.” Connelly’s efforts have resulted in new business, including that of a food manufacturing giant and Fortune 500 company. C&C has been selected as the Southeast distribution center for a
new product venture. “The company is concerned about reducing their carbon footprint and want to align themselves with companies who are trying to become more energy efficient,” Connelly said. “I offered them an economical solution and the benefits of our state-ofthe-art green facility.” The facility has been confirmed by the S.C. Department of Energy as one of the greenest public warehouse facilities in the Charleston region. The warehouse was positioned on the property for the best use of sunlight and air flow, and it was built using upgraded insulation. A large air flow system pulls in fresh air through the dock doors with the assistance of a huge fan with blades that extend 24 feet. This helps keep employees more comfortable and products cleaner. The warehouse also has light fixtures that turn on only when motion is detected or when natural light drops below a certain level. And Connelly’s building is one of the first in Berkeley County with solar panels that will tie into the electric grid. The solar panels generate energy that will first result in discounted monthly power bills and eventually generate excess energy Connelly can sell back to SCE&G for a profit. “Eventually, I want the sun to become my biggest customer,” he said. Inside the 3,000-square-foot office space, Connelly installed floor-to-ceiling windows and light fixtures that turn on gradually when natural light is not sufficient. Other efficiencies include a digitally controlled HVAC system with a built-in humidifier; motion-sensor low-flow faucets and hand dryers; and waterless urinals and dual-flush toilets. The walls are insulated with recycled denim, and countertops were made by Fisher Recycling using recycled beer bottles. In the future, Connelly plans on implementing a system that pulls water from a pond to flush the toilets and a geothermal system that will circulate cool well water through the air conditioning system for further efficiencies. “It all adds up, and at the end of the day, we’re making a big effort to save energy, do something good for the environment and reduce our carbon footprint. That sets me apart from the competition.”
137 Acres Drive | Ladson, SC 29456 843-818-2332 | www.candcwarehouse.com
36 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
PST – Productivity Solutions & Training
PST leads the Southeast in training, consulting and business skills solutions “We all believe in our community and its success and we’ve built our business around serving others.” Ingrid Tugwell CEO, Productivity Solutions & Training
Ingrid Tugwell, CEO
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roductivity Solutions & Training has offered training, consulting and professional development services to the Lowcountry for nearly 20 years. PST boasts certified trainers that can fill any training need throughout the world. It has three fully-equipped state-of-theart classrooms in Charleston, S.C., and can travel the world with a 14-station fully-equipped traveling classroom. Clients can choose a course from PST’s published schedule or a have a custom course created for implementation on-site or at PST’s training center. PST offers a one-year retake at no charge for public courses, one year free email support, a certificate of completion with continuing education units (CEUs) and certified manuals. PST’s consulting services extend classroom training to increase efficiencies in the workplace. PST’s staff has the ability to assist in automating existing workflow, upgrading legacy systems, database and web site development, and integration. PST also facilitates workshops across the country for individuals and groups of any size. It has more than 300 interactive workshops and leadership programs for new
or experienced supervisors, management and staff, and its workshops can be customized to suit a company’s specific needs. PST recently added an eight-person proctored test center to facilitate certification of all types for the community. PST is an authorized testing center for Prometric, Pearson VUE, Certiport, Kryterion and Performance Assessment Network exams. “Our mission is to build long-term relationships with every customer we serve by providing exceptional value, consistent quality training and consulting, competitive pricing and outstanding customer service,” said Ingrid Tugwell, CEO. “We’ve taken our personal and business successes and lent them to our clients through our various offerings. Our top priority is our people and customer service. We all believe in our community and its success and we’ve built our business around serving others,” she said. Tugwell, a top sought-after motivational speaker, travels all around the nation speaking to both military installations and corporations on topics such as customer service, business ethics, emotional intelligence, business etiquette, change management, conflict resolution, strategic planning and other topics upon request. PST also facilitates team building events at various outside venues that promote group activities (40-50 participants per event) to reinforce processes, staff interactions and dependencies within organizations. PST also has added IT Professional Services to its General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule, which has allowed them to service military installations throughout the world through awards of multiyear contracts. “We are all doing what we love and we are all great at doing it,” Tugwell said. “We have our clients to thank for supporting our goals.”
5300 International Blvd., B209 North Charleston, SC 29418 843-529-0098 | www.trainwithpst.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Parker Land Surveying
Building a community for employees and clients is at the heart of Parker Land Surveying’s mission “We have the ability and expertise to take a project from start to finish, beginning with due diligence through construction staking, to finished construction record drawings.” Steve Parker President, Parker Land Surveying
Standing (from left): Jim Barger, Ben Brabham, Rick Aldridge, Kie Agee, Pam Parker, Matt Beasley, Cleve Gillette, Derrek Cooper and Bill Vause. Front row kneeling (from left): Maurice Wilder, Reese Barrineau, Steve Parker, Jacob Lemus and Chris Richter.
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hree years ago, Pam Parker and her husband Steve started Parker Land Surveying to save — and create — jobs. Pam was the HR director for Trico Engineering Consultants; Steve was a former survey director for Trico and a principal at Stantec Consulting Services when it acquired Trico. After forming PLS, the Parkers hired several former Trico employees. Most recently, they added to their team Cleve Gillette, who retired from Stantec and was a president and founder of Trico. The family-owned company has grown to more than a dozen employees offering an array of surveying services including tree and topographical surveys, foundation surveys, FEMA flood elevation certificates, closing surveys, construction surveying, ALTA surveys, land development survey services, dock permits, rezoning and LEED consulting. PLS is a Certified Small Business Enterprise with Charleston County, a federally recognized Woman Owned Small Business and is under application with the state to become recognized as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise through the Department
of Transportation. “We have the ability and expertise to take a project from start to finish, beginning with due diligence through construction staking, to finished construction record drawings,” said President Steve Parker. Parker Land Surveying is all about its customers and building good customer relationships. A large part of that comes from having committed employees on the job. The average tenure of the 14 employees is 15 years between Trico and PLS. The employees care deeply about the work they do and the clients they serve, Parker said. “Loyal clients appreciate our responsiveness and the quality of our work.” The company works with many of the nation’s topvolume builders, along with individuals and custom builders, as well as municipal, state and county agencies. Large or small, customers receive the same quality service and level of commitment. Through faith and a startup loan through the BerkeleyCharleston-Dorchester Council of Governments, Pam and Steve were able to start Parker Land Surveying and keep it growing — even during a challenging economy. “Our focus is on our employees and customers, which is at the heart of the company’s mission, which is all about providing great customer service, accurate surveys, reasonable rates and also taking time to focus on family and giving back to the community,” Steve Parker said. This, in turn, “creates a community where Parker Land Surveying employees can make a life and a home.”
P.O. Box 60759 | North Charleston, SC 29419 843-554-7777 | www.PLSSC.com
38 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement
Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union
Heritage Trust opens new branch at Park West
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eritage Trust Federal Credit Union has opened the doors of its newest branch. Located in a picturesque setting at the entrance of the Park West community in Mount Pleasant, off U.S. Highway 17, the new branch was designed in partnership with Level 5, a consulting and development firm specializing in designing and building financial institutions. With more than 100 clients nationwide, Level 5 has completed major projects for clients, including Delta Community Credit Union and Auburn University Federal Credit Union. And although Level 5 is based out of Atlanta, almost all of the work on the branch was done through local subcontractors. What’s new at this branch? In lieu of the traditional teller line, employees help members with their transactions at dialog stations, making the experience more personalized and focused on service excellence. The highly trained and knowledgeable staff is focused on making sure the member receives excellent service and is educated about all of the options available to them. The branch is fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology including biometric entry into the vault, an ATM with the
latest check imaging/cash recognition system, advanced cash recycling/dispensing machines and coin machine technology that directly deposits to members’ accounts. Because the branch is truly a part of the Park West community (anyone who lives in Park West automatically qualifies for membership), Heritage Trust has added an entire community room as a part of the branch. The community room will offer an after-hours meeting space for local volunteer and nonprofit groups and associations. “The new branch in Mount Pleasant represents a significant change in how we do business with our members. It is a step in a new direction in terms of our member focus and the quality of service we can offer, as well as our ability to provide better convenience to our members with two locations in Mount Pleasant,” said David D’Annunzio, CFO. Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union is a financially sound organization that has successfully served the greater Charleston community since 1955. New members join an organization that not only serves and supports local business professionals, nurses, teachers, military personnel, construction workers and many others, but also contributes to the fabric of the local community.
1129 Park West Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 www.heritagetrust.org Special Advertising Supplement | 2011 Profiles in Business
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Regal Logistics
Delivering innovative shipping solutions, state-of-the-art systems, lower costs and real results
Garry Neeves, vice president of sales and marketing
R
egal Logistics was founded by Roc Neeves in 1970 with one clear objective: to offer innovative shipping solutions at a cost-effective price. Neeves and his sons Randy and Garry have since successfully established Regal Logistics as a premier third-party logistics provider (3PL) in the Pacific Northwest, and in 2009 the Neeves expanded Regal’s services to the Southeastern U.S. They strategically set up an operation in Charleston, S.C., which positions the company to assist with the increased volume of goods that is expected to come through the Port of Charleston after the Panama Canal expansion is complete in 2014. Regal currently operates more than 1.3 million square feet of high-velocity distribution center (DC) in the U.S., including 351,000 square feet of space located just minutes from the Port of Charleston.
The company specializes in mass-retailer distribution for its customers in the toy, apparel, footwear, housewares and consumer electronic industries. It serves major e-tailers and retailers including Walmart — for which Regal is an authorized trailer pool facility — as well as Target, Kmart/Sears, JCPenney, Kohl’s, Toys“R”Us and Amazon.com. Regal provides a comprehensive program of dedicated and shared warehousing, distribution and transportation services — including import deconsolidation and cross docking — as well as value-added, reverse logistics and product recall services. “We offer our customers a superior way to accelerate product to market, while reducing costs, with better access to important markets throughout the world,” said Garry Neeves, vice president of sales and marketing. Regal Logistics provides ideal import/export DCs complete with real-time inventory, electronic data interchange (EDI) and radio frequency identification (RFID). “Using the latest information technologies ensures our customers’ merchandise is expedited professionally and cost-effectively,” he said. In particular, Regal Logistics’ new Charleston DC is designed for high-volume, quick turn-around, retail-compliant shipping. It features supply chain management, competitive rates, central location near major pier, rail and highway access, simplified pricing and terms, no minimum storage requirements, realtime inventory and shipment tracking, warehouse management system (WMS), EDI, advance shipment notice (ASN) and RFID. “Leading-edge information technology standardized for the logistics industry and tailored to mass retailers is critical to an effective supply chain,” Garry Neeves said. “It’s what Regal has and how we use it that saves our customers money, supports better methods and cost-effective processes to streamline business and manage the supply chain with better results.” With 40-plus years of experience as a leading 3PL, Regal Logistics delivers innovative shipping solutions, state-of-the-art systems, lower costs and better results.
1980 Technology Drive | Charleston, SC 29492 866-300-5580 | www.regallogistics.com
40 2011 Profiles in Business | Special Advertising Supplement