2016
CELEBRATING LOWCOUNTRY BUSINESSES Charleston’s leading businesses reveal the keys to success
Charleston Southern University “Veterans services at Charleston Southern is one of the fastest growing programs on campus. Because of the impact the military has made on the Charleston community, we feel as if it’s our duty as a university to support our veterans both in and out of the classroom.” – John Strubel, Director of Integrated Marketing
Charleston Southern University Air Force ROTC students.
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harleston Southern University has been providing educational programs and services to military personnel and their families for over 40 years. Recently, the college expanded its veterans services and academic programs to serve even more military students and enhance their college experience. The college has seen an increase in enrollment of its military students, with approximately 370 students enrolled using Veterans Administration (VA) benefits for the spring 2016 semester. Charleston Southern University employs a full-time Veterans Services Coordinator to help navigate the complicated system of benefits; it also works with military students to get the most out of their education. CSU also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which makes additional funds available for education. Devon Kemble, Veterans Services Coordinator at Charleston Southern, says benefits can be used 10-15 years from the last day of active duty service. Spouses and dependents may also be eligible for benefits. “Anyone who has VA education benefits can enroll and utilize their benefits as long as they meet our admission requirements and
gain acceptance,” Kemble says. Courses of study span all disciplines. Charleston Southern University has increased campus life amenities for its military students, including a veterans services lounge. “College-bound veterans are able to return to the college classroom, get an education and connect with other veterans,” says John Strubel, CSU Director of Integrated Marketing. “We’re building a strong, vibrant community on campus.” The college employs faculty members who are veterans and who understand the unique needs of military students. The college also has an active local chapter of Student Veterans of America and a prestigious Air Force ROTC, which recently expanded from two to four years, and Army ROTC program. Charleston Southern University has been designated as a Military-Friendly College and works with the Palmetto Warrior Connection. “Veterans services at Charleston Southern is one of the fastest growing programs on campus,” adds Strubel. “Because of the impact the military has made on the Charleston community, we feel as if it’s our duty as a university to support our veterans both in and out of the classroom.”
9200 University Blvd. Charleston, SC 29406 (843) 863-7050 www.charlestonsouthern.edu Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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A Note From the Publisher Profiles in Business Editor - Licia Jackson ljackson@scbiznews.com • 803.726.7546 Associate Editor - Jenny Peterson jpeterson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3145 Senior Graphic Designer - Jane Mattingly production2@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3118 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Senior Account Executive - Sue Gordon sgordon@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3111 Senior Account Executive - Robert Reilly rreilly@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3107 Account Executive - Sara Cox scox@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3109 Account Executive - Bennett Parks bparks@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3126 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jenny Peterson, Holly Fisher, Licia Jackson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Reese Moore Photography, Kathy Allen, Kim McManus
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 Grady Johnson 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. 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 2016 Profiles in Business, and I hope you will enjoy reading about this sample of Charleston business life as much as I do.
President and Group Publisher - Grady Johnson gjohnson@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3103 Vice President of Sales - Steve Fields sfields@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3110 Creative Director - Ryan Wilcox production1@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3117 Audience Development & IT Manager - Kim McManus kmcmanus@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3116 Event Manager - Kathy Allen
Grady Johnson President and Group Publisher SC Business Publications LLC A portfolio company of Virginia Capital Partners LLC Frederick L. Russell Jr., Chairman
kallen@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3113 Accounting Department - Vickie Deadmon
South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth
vdeadmon@scbiznews.com • 864.235.5677, ext. 25 CUSTOM MEDIA DIVISION Director of Business Development - Mark Wright mwright@scbiznews.com • 843.849.3143
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
The entire contents of this newspaper are copyright by SC Business Publications LLC with all rights reserved. Any reproduction or use of the content within this publication without permission is prohibited. SCBIZ and South Carolina’s Media Engine for Economic Growth are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Listed alphabetically 18 3
Charleston RiverDogs Charleston Southern University
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Complete Employee Services
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Data Imaging
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E. M. Seabrook Engineers
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Glick/Boehm & Associates, Inc.
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Hartnett Realty Co.
25
Integral Solutions Group
19
Jameson Law
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Joint Base Charleston
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Keepsakes Florist
27
Keystone Benefits Group
9
Lowcountry Women’s Specialists
8
Mashburn Construction Company
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Newmark Grubb Wilson Kibler
22
Occam Legal Immigration Attorneys
30
Parker Land Surveying
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PST - Productivity Solutions & Training
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Southeast Electronic Recycling
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Spherion
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Trident Academy
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“PST has been building long-term relationships with clients dating back to 1994. We believe that community involvement and client support have been the key to our success.” - Ingrid Tugwell, CEO of PST and Franchise Principal of Dale Carnegie SC
The staff of PST and Dale Carnegie SC along with key corporate office staff. First row, from left: Kim Holcombe, Debbie Cooler, Herbert L. Drayton III, Karen Kimsey-Sward, Ingrid Tugwell, Lisa Zakis, Brooke Fetty. Second row, from left: Rick Rickenbaker, Tom Walker, Dinin Lopez, Dean Riegel, Michael Crom, Chip Boling, Jim Geffert and DJ Thatcher.
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or more than 22 years, Productivity Solutions & Training (PST) has been a leader in the Charleston area offering quality training programs and technology for corporations and individuals. This spring, PST expanded its employee engagement services when it acquired the franchise of Dale Carnegie SC, (Charleston, Columbia, and Augusta, GA) a prestigious international training program for individuals and employees in skills for success, leadership training for managers, high impact presentations, sales and winning with relationship selling, custom programs, online training and much more. Courses and seminars touch on many of today’s issues in the workplace. A recent free employee engagement workshop hosted by Dale Carnegie called “Creating a Culture that Engages and Retains Millennials” had nearly 100 attendees at the Charleston Convention Center. “We were looking to bridge a gap with these employees,” says Kim Holcombe, Vice President of Training and Marketing with PST. “People skills are not something you are born with. Like any other skill, if you do not practice or refresh it, you will lose those skills. One of the biggest reasons people in business fail is because they do not know how to communicate effectively. The Dale Carnegie curriculum teaches employees how to be accountable in their communication efforts.”
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The Dale Carnegie franchise has been in South Carolina and in parts of Georgia for 23 years, many of those years under the ownership of Jim Geffert. Eight Dale Carnegie SC instructors will remain under PST’s leadership, and Geffert will continue to work as Director of Corporate Solutions. Brooke Fetty, formerly the Director of Operations for PST, will serve as the Dale Carnegie SC Operations Manager. Business executives, employees or individuals are welcome to browse offerings and register for classes at www.dalecarnegiesc.com. The Dale Carnegie SC courses now join more than 300 training programs that PST already offers to help employees and individuals sharpen computer or technical skills. “Jobs are requiring people to be more proficient in computer programs like Excel and Word,” Holcombe says. “We offer the most effective way to improve employee efficiency.” Lisa Zakis will serve as General Manager of PST. Business executives, employees or individuals are welcome to browse offerings and register for classes at www.trainwithpst.com PST specializes in training for education, business and military communities throughout the Southeast. “It was a perfect fit to include Dale Carnegie training,” says Ingrid Tugwell, CEO of PST and Dale Carnegie SC. “PST and Dale Carnegie go hand in hand.” PST is also well-versed in local, state and federal government programs and software. It offers a number of training programs
2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
Productivity Solutions & Training (PST)
A free employee engagement workshop hosted by Dale Carnegie SC in May called “Creating a Culture that Engages and Retains Millennials” had nearly 100 attendees.
From left: Brooke Fetty, Dale Carnegie Operations Manager; Lisa Zakis, General Manager at PST; Maurice Noisette, Vice-President of Technical Training at PST; Ingrid Tugwell, CEO of PST and Franchise Principal at Dale Carnegie SC and Kim Holcombe, Vice-President of Training and Marketing with PST.
regarding cyber security, the Department of Defense and Information Technology. PST also accepts VA benefits. PST serves as a testing center and has consultants that work with business-specific needs to make employees and leaders more effective in the workplace. Instructor-led application and technical training in small classroom settings allow PST to increase employee productivity, making for a more competitive company. Critical to PST’s success is passion along with friendly and knowledgeable instructors with realworld experience. Lectures, demonstrations, hands-on activities and labs teach and reinforce practical skills. From existing programs to advanced software, PST has the staff to stay on top of new trends in the ever-changing field of technology. PST offers comprehensive business-skills training and executive coaching. Many classes are taught by Ingrid Tugwell, PST’s founder and an acclaimed motivational speaker. Business classes include budgeting, interviewing skills, customer service and correcting performance problems. There are even training programs on how employees can master new markets and new clients. Classes are either in the state-of-the-art classrooms at PST’s North Charleston headquarters or at a company’s site. Courses are offered day, evening and on weekends. Companies can rent out the classrooms for their own off-site training, complete with a projector,
networking hub and a dozen laptops. For those who can’t leave to attend classes, both PST and Dale Carnegie SC even offer online training. For businesses looking to see how training can help their workforce, PST’s consulting program can evaluate workplace efficiency and show how businesses can save time and money. “Many clients are repeat customers, they are interested in keeping employee skills sharp. PST has been building long-term relationships with clients dating back to 1994. We believe that community involvement and client support have been the key to our success. The addition of Dale Carnegie SC means the company now offers complete employee training and engagement. We’re bringing employee training full-circle—from start to finish,” Zakis says. “It is fabulous to see PST evolve and fold in another company and take things to another level. I have been blessed to work with such talented people and continue doing what I love and see all excel at what they do best and it is amazing and fun at the same time! I love it! The two companies are a perfect complement to one another and what a benefit to all of our customers! Employee engagement brought to another level and one-stop shopping. We look forward to continuing to support the lowcountry for another 25 years and taking our excellent customer service to Columbia and Augusta as well,” Tugwell says.
4105 Faber Place Drive, Suite 420 North Charleston, SC 29405 (843) 529-0098 www.trainwithpst.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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Mashburn Construction Company
“It’s important to enjoy your work. I have had a lot of satisfaction in this business. When you create a building— no matter what part you played or position you held — for the rest of your life you will drive by and say, ‘I built that.’ It’s a visual accomplishment.” - Harry Mashburn, CEO and Chairman
Left to right: Paul Mashburn, President and Chief Operating Officer; Harry Mashburn, CEO and Chairman; Lee Mashburn, Executive Vice-President, pre-construction
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ashburn Construction Co. is celebrating 40 years of building structures—and relationships—with integrity. It all began when Harry Mashburn did some work in Columbia for another construction company, serving as chief field engineer for the Carolina Coliseum. Tired of traveling from state to state, he decided he liked the future he saw for Columbia, so he and his family settled in the capital city. One thing led to another, and by age 33, Mashburn had started his own company. “I wanted to provide a professional service to clients rather than bid schoolhouses,” Mashburn says. The traditional construction system was to design a project, then bid it to a contractor to build it. That led to inevitable conflict among the various parties, which could be avoided with a collaborative design-build system. The company offers construction management services, managing the entire process with client, design team and builder. “When everyone is on the same team, they work together,” Mashburn explains. Mashburn Construction Co., a full-service construction company, focuses on commercial buildings, with apartments being its only residential enterprise. The company’s expertise extends to health care, historical renovation, hospitality, industrial, institutional and church
construction. Headquartered in Columbia, Mashburn Construction has offices in Charleston and Greenville. Among Mashburn’s projects in Charleston is the Grand Bohemian Hotel, a new four-diamond boutique hotel in the historic downtown. It includes an art gallery, a wine blending and tasting room, and a rooftop restaurant and terrace. Mashburn Construction has also completed historic renovation projects of the College of Charleston’s Randolph Hall, Porter’s Lodge and Towell Library; the Charleston Distilling Co.; the Peoples Building; and the Charleston High School Redevelopment, MUSC College of Health Professions. A dream of Mashburn’s is that the company be passed on to the second generation of his family, and that is well on the way. Paul Mashburn is currently President and COO and concentrates mainly on Operations; as Executive Vice President, Lee Mashburn focuses more on the pre-construction process. The company has succeeded because of quality work and excellence in project leadership, Mashburn says. “I attribute it to really good building superintendents who are on the job every day. It really makes a difference in a company.”
1820 Sumter St. Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 400-1000 www.mashburnconstruction.com
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
Lowcountry Women’s Specialists
“Our doctors truly love their patients and that comes through in everything they do.” - Sonya Wyatt, Practice Manager
Lowcountry Women’s Specialists Physicians.
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he year was 1991—the World Wide Web launched to the public, a VCR was still the best way to watch movies at home, the first Gulf War ended and Dr. Christopher Accetta left his position as attending physician at Charleston Naval Hospital to become one of the founding members of Lowcountry Women’s Specialists. Now, 25 years and 40,000 babies-delivered later, Lowcountry Women’s Specialists, a privately-run, independent OB-GYN practice has grown to include seven physicians and two locations serving the tri-county area and is in the process of hiring an eighth physician and opening a third location. “Having a relationship with an OB-GYN is a very personal experience. And our mission is to take care of our patients for life,” explains Sonya Wyatt, Practice Manager. “We have the amazing opportunity to deliver the babies of the babies we delivered—truly taking care of women throughout their lifetime.” Just as times have changed, technology has changed as well, and the practice maintains a commitment to constantly innovating and introducing the most current, proven technology to their patients’ healthcare options. Both the Summerville and North Charleston locations offer in-office, out-patient surgeries and procedures with local anesthesia, as well as an on-site lab and 3-D ultrasounds.
The physicians also perform robotic surgery for hysterectomies, which means smaller incisions and less recovery time before getting back to work and family. In fact, Dr. Ronnie Givens was the first to perform a single-site robotic hysterectomy at Trident Medical Center and, to date, has performed well over 100 of these surgeries. The group’s high-tech approach is balanced by their hands-on style. Each patient has an OB-GYN Coordinator acting as her guide throughout her pregnancy answering questions and providing prenatal education and support. Providing complete, compassionate care through each phase of a patient’s changing healthcare needs, the practice’s seven doctors are all board-certified and can handle every situation, including general OB-GYN services, routine wellness visits and high-risk pregnancies. The practice’s doctors are deeply committed to and involved in the community as well—coaching local swim and football teams, participating in charitable organizations and sponsoring familyoriented free events throughout the area. “We have served the community for a long time and have built a great level of genuine trust through our expertise and cutting-edge services,” says Wyatt. “Our doctors truly love their patients, and that comes through in everything they do.”
9291 Medical Plaza Dr., N. Charleston, SC 29406 77 Springview Ln., Summerville, SC 29485 (843) 797-3664 www.lowcountrywomen.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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Spherion Staffing
“Pull quote or really awesome stat or fact goes here. Pull “Our services give our business quote or really awesome stat partners the competitive or fact goes here. Pull quote or advantage they need to grow.” really awesome stat or fact goes – Mary Barrineau, Co-owner here.” - John Johnson, CEO
Co-owners Mary Barrineau and Pam Ueberroth
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pherion Recruiting and Staffing has been connecting top talent with top jobs in Charleston for 20 years. The full-service staffing agency provides temporary, contract and professional staffing for businesses across the Lowcountry. “We are a family-owned and operated Woman-Owned Small Business that has built its foundation upon strong values of dedicated service, loyal relationships and tailored business solutions,” says Mary Barrineau, Co-owner. After years of experience in the staffing industry, Pam Thompson Ueberroth knew the closing of the Charleston Navy Base would mean a major change for Charleston—and that it would be an ideal time to join the community. She launched a staffing agency here in 1994. Over the course of the next five years, Barrineau, Ueberroth’s daughter, moved from Atlanta and began working with the business. In 2000, Norrell was acquired and became Spherion Staffing. Barrineau became co-owner with her mother, and the all-women team has continued to make strides in the staffing industry. Clients turn to Spherion when they need top-quality staff without the hassle of endless searches. “Our services give our business partners the competitive advantage
they need to grow,” Barrineau says. Spherion provides executive searches, direct hire, contract staffing and workforce management while also helping clients with staffing needs in 3PL and distribution, warehouse, manufacturing, engineering, quality, call centers, collections, medical coding/billing, administrative and finance. Spherion provides on-site management and recruitment process outsourcing to make finding the right people as simple as possible. Spherion is also 100% percent compliant with the Affordable Healthcare Act. One of the benefits of using Spherion as the staffing agency of choice is the combination of a locally owned business and an international company. The seven full-time employees at Spherion know the staffing needs and expectations of businesses in the Lowcountry. They also have the benefit of the backing of an international staffing company with international resources. Since 2001, Spherion Charleston has been in the top 10 percent for growth of all Spherion offices. The team has been in the top three Executive Placement Awards since 2001 while being honored with a Multi-Million Dollar Growth Award and an OnPremise Management Award since 2005.
4995 LaCross Road, Suite 1050 North Charleston, SC (843) 554-4933 www.spherion.com
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
Joint Base Charleston “We seek hometown support for our military community. Partnering with JB Charleston through sponsorship provides an ideal opportunity to give back to those dedicated to protecting our freedom, past and present. Come in ‘behind the gate’ on Joint Base Charleston – stand up, be counted and make our service members a part of a rewarding business philosophy.” - Donna Basnett, Special Events and Sponsorship Coordinator The Annual Appreciation Picnic at Joint Base Charleston, held in May, provides lunch and fun events for the entire Joint Base community. The event is open to base employees, active duty military, reservists, military retirees and their families.
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onoring those who serve in the military is a worthy goal for many in the business community. For businesses in the Charleston region, there’s a tangible way to achieve this goal: Joint Base Charleston offers multiple opportunities to support members of the military, their families, civilian employees and military retirees by sponsoring events and programs. The partnership benefits the businesses by helping them reach a market of approximately 90,000 members of this military community as well as enhancing the image of their companies. Since 2010, Joint Base Charleston has acted as a stepping stone to make Charleston a joint logistics, transportation and engineering hub and the worldwide leader in moving people, vehicles, munitions and supplies via air, land, sea and rail. Joint Base is made up of the Air Base and the Weapons Station. With more than 60 mission partners, Team Charleston comprises Air Force, Navy, Army, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Homeland Security and other Department of Defense missions. We are the launching point for our nation’s resolve. The host unit of Joint Base Charleston is the 628th Air Base Wing, providing base support for active-duty and reserve military
members, civilian government employees and contractors, military family members and retirees. As part of the 628th Mission Support Group, the Force Support Squadron provides on base activities and leisure opportunities for the Joint Base community. “We take care of our military families from cradle to grave,” explains Laura Abell, Director of Marketing. Joint Base programs range from child care to youth and fitness activities to honor guards for funerals. A major event is the Annual Appreciation Picnic, with multiple opportunities for sponsorship. Other partnerships are available for Freedomfest, the Joint Base’s celebration of Independence Day. Another premium event is Run the Runway. Joint Base Charleston shares runways with Charleston International Airport, and the 3.1-mile course is set among the base’s fleet of C-17s. Making sure that these events and many others receive corporate support is Joint Base Charleston Marketing, an integral part of the Force Support Squadron. The marketing department will work with each business to customize partnerships to reach promotional goals, with programs and events providing direct access to the Joint Base military market as well as maximum brand exposure.
102 N. Davis Drive North Charleston, SC 29404 803-963-3816 www.jbcharleston.com/advertising-sponsorship Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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Keepsakes Florist
“We work hard to make our customers happy.” – Karen Spalviero, Owner
Keepsakes Florist employees Emma Pigford, Carl Grant, Paul Allen and Owner Karen Spalviero.
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or all the special and celebratory occasions in life, Keepsakes Florist has been the go-to florist for the Charleston area for the past 27 years. Keepsakes Florist is a full-service, one-stop shop that prides itself on going above and beyond the ordinary to make customers happy for weddings, corporate events, special occasions and holidays. Services include delivery and setup for special events. Since 1989, Owner Karen Spalviero has made her passion for flowers and arrangements a thriving and essential business on James Island. “We truly care about our customers and will take extra steps if necessary to make them happy and the recipients happy,” Spalviero says. Keepsakes Florist offers same-day, guaranteed delivery to James Island, West Ashley, Daniel Island and Mount Pleasant (in the 29464 zip code), and is one of the few florists delivering to Johns Island, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island and Wadmalaw Island. Another unique service includes waiving the industry standard fee to deliver flowers outside the service area. “If you need flowers delivered in Columbia, you can call us,” Spalviero says. Keepsakes
will arrange for a local shop to deliver the flowers. Spalviero started out with dried flower arrangements in consignment for Roper St. Francis hospital under the name Keepsakes by Karen. Keepsakes Florist grew from that business, and a staff of seven now work exclusively with arrangements of fresh, premium flowers that are shipped by plane from all over the world. A refrigerated delivery van ensures flowers arrive at their destination both fresh and fragrant. The store has a large number of decorative vases, glassware, mercury glass, potted plants and other décor accents. It’s a onestop shop for decorating any space or enhancing any occasion. Keepsakes Florist was named one of the top 500 florists nationwide by Florist Transworld Delivery (FTD), based on positive customer reviews. For unique gift ideas, Keepsakes Florist also offers custom gift baskets, handmade wreaths, plush stuffed animals and jewelry perfect for bridesmaid’s gifts. The shop welcomes any request for any floral need. Spalviero says she enjoys forming lasting relationships with clients. “We work hard to make our customers happy,” she says.
2024 Wappoo Drive Charleston, SC 29412 (843) 766-7807 www.keepsakesflorist.net
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
Trident Academy
Trident Academy provides students with the tools to transition into a traditional academic program. A small classroom environment provides teachers with the ability to truly understand and plan lessons based on their students’ academic and social needs.
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he Mount Pleasant school has served cognitively capable students with language-based learning differences such as dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia for over four decades. Prior to 1972, Trident Academy was known as the Reading Clinic and was housed in a downtown Charleston church. Through the generosity of Bill Detyens, at that time a Trident Academy parent, the land was donated for the school where the campus is today. Currently, the K-12 school is one of 13 schools in the United States accredited by the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators (AOGPE). The Orton-Gillingham approach is widely held as the premier approach to educational intervention for individuals with dyslexia. “We adapt our teaching to their style of learning,” says Betsy Fanning, Head of School. “It’s a multisensory approach to teaching that reduces learning components to the smallest parts necessary for a particular student to understand.” Trident Academy has 44 students this year, increasing to over 50 next fall, with additional students in academic tutoring and summer programs. Many families relocate to Charleston so that their children can attend Trident Academy, Fanning says. The
largest classes are in the third-, fourth- and fifth-grade years, where ability to read independently becomes critical. Armed with 20 years of data from pre and post testing of students, Trident Academy shows marked improvement in student achievement every year. Anecdotally, the school has many success stories, with alumni becoming entrepreneurs, business executives and sports managers. Classes are small; every student attends a daily LEAD (language enrichment and development) class, specific to individual needs. Math is also taught with a hands-on multisensory approach, with manipulatives utilized to explain difficult concepts. General academic and enrichment classes are taught, with many of them using the Orton-Gillingham approach to help the students learn. Tuition is high; scholarships funded through the Education Credits for Exceptional Needs Children provision in the state budget and the school’s need-based financial aid make it more affordable, Fanning says. The school’s goal is to provide students with the tools and confidence to transition to conventional learning environments. “Trident Academy’s immersive approach makes a critical difference in each child’s ability to learn; we nurture students to become independent, lifelong learners,” Fanning says.
1455 Wakendaw Road Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 (843) 884-7046 www.tridentacademy.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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Hartnett Realty Co.
“Hartnett Realty Company’s mission statement is clear— find out what the client wants and deliver it.” - Thomas F. Hartnett Jr., President
Left to right: William Smith, Broker-in-Charge and Tom Hartnett, Owner of Hartnett Realty Company.
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s Hartnett Realty Co. enters its 70th year, the company is broadening its demographic as it remains focused on providing a high level of service to its clients. “We have historically served the professional community— attorneys, tax advisers, estate planners, government entities, etc.— which we are delighted to continue doing, and are now looking to attract younger professionals for both their business and personal needs,” says William S. Smith, Broker-in-Charge. A real estate brokerage and consulting firm, Hartnett Realty is one of the oldest real estate companies in Charleston. It was founded in 1947 by the current president’s grandmother, Catherine Hartnett, one of the first woman Realtors in Charleston. She passed the company on to her son, Thomas F. Hartnett, who also had a political career in South Carolina and represented this district in the U.S. Congress. In 2015, the company leadership was passed on to the third generation, Thomas F. Hartnett Jr., now president. On the brokerage side, Hartnett Realty handles commercial, residential and land sales. The company also offers appraisal
services. “We serve as expert witnesses in real estate cases,” Hartnett says. “We are involved in estate planning, preservation and conservation easements, and condemnation.” When it comes to residential sales, Hartnett Realty Co. represents both buyers and sellers. One aspect making company associates stand out from the competition is individualized attention. “We operate on a one-to-one basis with a client,” Smith says. The associate who starts working with a client will shepherd him or her through the entire process. Hartnett Realty has no closing coordinators, clerical processors or administrative assistants asserting themselves into the traditional role of a broker/agent. The company’s reputation and longevity is built on its oldfashioned personal touch. On its 60th anniversary, Charleston Mayor Joseph Riley declared Oct. 13, 2007, as “Hartnett Realty Co. Day.” Licensed in both South Carolina and North Carolina, Hartnett Realty Co. has also done commercial work in Georgia. Among its staff of six associates are two brokers.
1041 Johnnie Dodds Boulevard, Suite 14C Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 (843) 723-7222 www.hartnettrealty.com
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
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“We’re trying to elevate the human spirit through architecture,” “Pull quote or really awesome - Myles Glick, stat or Founding fact goes here. Pull Principal quote or really awesome stat or fact goes here. Pull quote or really awesome stat or fact goes “We have a high level of commitment to every project here.” -and John Johnson, CEO follow it through construction.” - Gary Boehm, Senior Principal
Left to right: Gary Boehm, AIA CSI LEED AP; Shawn Mellin, AIA LEED AP; Myles Glick, AIA LEED AP.
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elebrating 35 years in business, Glick/Boehm & Associates, Inc., an architectural, interior design and planning firm, has found success in designing exceptional buildings with a personal touch. “We want to add value for our clients,” says Myles Glick, founding principal. “We consider how people will feel utilizing different design options, how they will move through the spaces.” Three principal architects on staff, Myles Glick, Gary Boehm and Shawn Mellin, have combined over 100 years of experience. Commercial projects span all types of buildings: schools, restaurants, offices, churches, government buildings and more. Currently under construction is the Beach Club Hotel at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina. “We always start with the client’s goal and use our experience and expertise to offer personal attention,” says Gary Boehm, principal. The firm designed the multimillion-dollar Fountain Walk project next to the aquarium in downtown Charleston as well as the Pawleys Island post office, which received several awards for design excellence. “We know how to respond to each client’s unique situation and desire,” Boehm says. “We have a high level of commitment to every project and follow it through construction.” With a 92 percent rate of repeat clients and a host of design excellence awards, Glick/ Boehm & Associates, Inc. hopes to continue to design beautiful buildings for another 35 years. “We’re trying to elevate the human spirit through architecture,” Glick says.
493 King St., Suite 100 Charleston, SC 29403 (843) 577-6377 www.glickboehm.com
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
Glick/Boehm & Associates, Inc.
Top: Seabrook Island House, Seabrook, SC. Bottom left: Fountain Park near the Charleston Aquarium in downtown Charleston. Bottom middle: The Joint Base Charleston Chapel in North Charleston. Bottom right: Moultrie Middle School in Mt. Pleasant.
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Charleston RiverDogs
“We provide great experiences for families, companies, tourists and locals alike.” – Andy Lange, VP/Corporate Sales
In addition to baseball games, the Charleston RiverDogs stadium hosts concerts, beer festivals and other crowd-pleasing events.
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here’s no arguing that gathering the gang for a Charleston RiverDogs game makes for a fun summer evening, what with the action, family time, yummy concessions and beautiful Lowcountry atmosphere. And VP/Corporate Sales Andy Lange relishes the opportunity to help you and your family create that experience. “We’re in the memory-making business,” he says. “We provide great experiences for families, companies, tourists and locals alike.” Baseball in Charleston had already been around for more than a century when the idea for the RiverDogs surfaced. An ownership group led by Marv Goldklang, Mike Veeck and Bill Murray brought the sport to a “new level of entertainment and zaniness,” according to Lange. “You never know who’s going to come out at the Joe,” he says, using the nickname for the Joseph P. Riley Park, official home of the RiverDogs. “You might see a guy get shot out of a cannon, catch a Bill Murray sighting or laugh at a co-worker participating in an adult ribbon-dancing contest.” Pair all of this fun and laughter with the great American pastime
of baseball and affordability—you can enter the stadium for just $6 and enjoy a full meal for just $7—and it’s easy to see why the RiverDogs business model has succeeded and continues to grow. Yes, some of the company’s secret sauce is fairly time-tested— commitment to customer service and the community, Lange says— but a little creativity with promotions has gone a long way as well. “We work hard to create promotions and events that drive conversation and media impact,” he remarks. The “conversation” has resulted in a bevy of awards, including best sports team in Charleston for 11 years running as well as a Minor League Baseball Promotional Excellence Award out of 160 teams nationwide. As for the days the team isn’t playing, Lange and his crew work hard to bring other events to the Joe and keep the venue humming. Concerts, beer festivals and other crowd-pleasers abound, and future plans for the stadium are in the works now. “The next several years will be focused on improving Riley Park for our fans,” Lange says.
360 Fishburne St. Charleston, SC 29403 (843) 723-7241 www.riverdogs.com
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Jameson Law
“The client relationship is paramount.” – Trey Jameson
Trey Jameson posing in his office.
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awrence “Trey” G. Jameson III has brought his Wall Street corporate law experience back home to Charleston where he’s now one of the few attorneys in the state to focus on franchise
law. He encourages entrepreneurs to consult an attorney the moment they consider franchising their business. Starting the process early saves business owners time and money in the long term. Jameson works with companies in various stages of growth but prefers to start the foundation—vetting company names and trademarks, preparing agreements, creating systems, and other initial preventive legal measures. “Many clients want to trademark their name or franchise their business only to realize their trade name has been registered,” Jameson explains. “What is worse is some clients build equity in their trade name, only to receive a cease and desist letter from another company claiming the right to the trade name. Why risk all of your hard work in starting a business, only to be forced to start over because someone else was using the name before you?”
Jameson also handles trademarks, copyrights, and transactional corporate law matters, including business formations, reviewing and drafting contracts, and asset purchases and sales. A Charleston native, Jameson has an international business degree and communications degree from the College of Charleston and earned his law degree from the Charleston School of Law. He also received a master of law degree in intellectual property from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in New York City. Afterward, he performed contract work for two of Manhattan’s largest law firms working on mergers and acquisitions until he finally settled into a New York City firm off Wall Street that focused on securities litigation. Jameson wanted to impact businesses more personally and returned to his Lowcountry home to start his own firm in 2014. His focus is on long-term client relationships. “I enjoy my clients,” he says. “Most of them have my cell phone number, and I make myself readily available to the corporate demands. My clients are not a file number—I know their birthdays and their families. The client relationship is paramount.”
231 King St., 3rd Floor Charleston, SC 29401 (843) 407-3030 www.jameson-law.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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E. M. Seabrook
Civil Engineers and Land Surveyors
“One of the most rewarding aspects of my 39 years of practice is performing studies and designs necessary for implementing projects for our neighbors who do not have access to safe drinking water and proper wastewater disposal.” - Mickey Seabrook, President
From left: Mickey Seabrook, President and Lewis Seabrook, Vice-President.
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small firm with a significant impact on the Lowcountry, E. M. Seabrook Jr. Inc. is marking its 60th year in Mount Pleasant. Established by Mike Seabrook, current principals Mickey Seabrook and Lewis Seabrook lead the company to assist clients with projects to increase the values of their assets and to enhance the benefits of stewardship of land and water resources. The firm offers designs for utilities, municipalities, commercial and residential developments, water supply, wastewater collection and treatment and stormwater management as well as traditional land surveying services. The company had expanded into wastewater system design in the 1960s and 1970s. As wastewater treatment and water supply demands for Lowcountry residents have grown, the company’s wide range of experience and expertise has enabled E. M. Seabrook to maintain its technical presence in the region. Among E. M. Seabrook’s major utilities projects are engineering for ten large water wells and distribution systems providing potable water to East Cooper residents; engineering for consolidation of numerous wastewater discharges into central treatment facilities in Mount Pleasant, Summerville and lower Berkeley County; and engineering for treated wastewater land disposal systems on barrier islands. The
wastewater facilities have all contributed to reduction of negative impacts to nearby estuaries. Other recent engineering projects include a fire pump and distribution system for the Town of Mount Pleasant’s Fire Training Center; development of the Town of Awendaw Water System; redevelopment of Island Center at Isle of Palms, including Low Impact Development stormwater management, and various services to Boone Hall Plantation and the Town of Hollywood. E. M. Seabrook delivers land surveying services to a variety of clients, including individual property owners, municipal and state governments, commercial contractors and residential builders. A number of wellestablished local subdivisions are the result of design and surveying by the Seabrook firm. Due to an extensive volume of historical data, clients can depend on the company when additional services are required. The firm plans for moderate growth during the next few years with concentration in the tri-county area. Mickey Seabrook emphasizes: “We give close attention to detail. Principals remain personally involved with every project.” Long before the Lowcountry’s explosive growth, “we were here,” says Lewis Seabrook. “We didn’t move in—we have served the community for sixty years, and we plan to stay.”
Post Office Box 96 Mount Pleasant, SC 29465 (843) 884-4496 www.emseabrook.com
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
Complete Employee Services
“Complete Employee Services (CES) brings the benefits of a large corporations human resources department, to its small to mid-size companies.” - Karen Taylor, CEO
The staff at Complete Employee Services.
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arking its 10 year anniversary, Complete Employee Services is excited to celebrate its past achievements, and looks forward to a bright future working with industry leaders in a wide variety of fields. As a Professional Employer Organization (PEO), CES provides its clients with human resources support and a full suite of employee benefits, workers comp, payroll services, tax compliance, and unemployment claims management. The firm also offers training in leadership, supervision, workplace regulations, employee relations, and many other employment areas. Complete Employee Services health insurance plan with Blue Choice offers the power of numbers to small companies. CEO Karen Taylor explains, “Essentially we can give a company lower insurance rates by pooling them with other clients, giving advantages only large corporations can get.” The firm can assist with insurance claims and also make sure families receive life insurance benefits in the case of a loss. CES has an expert accounting team that takes care of payroll tax compliance for clients and can assist with tax credits, such as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). “Keeping a company in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations has become a major task,” Taylor says. “Workers comp compliance is complex, and
the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has placed many new requirements on employers relating to health insurance.” Taylor’s highly trained employees serve a wide range of industries, from road construction to lawyers and doctors. The firm is committed to leveraging the latest technology in order to serve its clients in the most efficient and affordable way, including employee and employer 24/7 portal, scheduling and time and attendance tools. Complete Employee Services is a member of the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO), an industry group which lobbies and advises on legislation affecting U.S. employers. The PEO industry is heavily regulated in most states, and Complete Employee Services is subject to strict financial integrity metrics that include annual audit requirements. CES focuses on businesses in the Carolinas and Georgia, but serves clients in 26 states. “When our clients call , they get a name and a face,” Taylor says. “We are hands-on and we offer customized solutions to meet each of our client’s unique needs.” We get you back to business! While your human assets are taken care of.
2711 Middleburg Drive, Suite 305 Columbia, SC 29204 (803) 255-8190 www.completeemployeeservices.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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OccamLegal
“I want everything about the immigration experience to be simple for my clients.” – David Vyborny, Principal and Managing Attorney at OccamLegal
David Vyborny, Principal and Managing Attorney at OccamLegal.
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usiness owners and managers who hire foreign employees and executives don’t have the time to sort through the often-complex legal immigration process. Neither do highly skilled professionals or foreigners who are investing in U.S. enterprises. That’s where full-time immigration attorney David Vyborny steps in. The entire approach of his law firm, OccamLegal, is to simplify the immigration process. But Vyborny doesn’t just stop at the paperwork. He goes beyond the applications to assist immigrants and their families with everything they need to get settled in their new home. Getting a driver’s license, organizing a small business, opening a bank account or connecting with a real estate agent to find a place to live, service packages are helpful and cost effective for clients. Vyborny knows people can be intimidated by finding the right lawyer and worried about being overcharged. “I want people to feel they can get quality representation without having to fear all those things,” he says. “I want everything about the immigration experience to be simple for my clients.”
Vyborny took on OccamLegal in 2016 and saw the potential for a multinational immigration legal firm headquartered in South Carolina – where business is booming. Vyborny points to the state’s leadership in creating a welcoming business climate that is attracting everything from small foreignowned businesses to large multinational corporations to South Carolina. These companies create jobs for South Carolinians, and many bring in foreign skilled workers and executives, adding to the diversity and growing economy of the state. With a background in business and a specialty in immigration law, Vyborny is well positioned to assist large and small companies, investors and entrepreneurs. Vyborny is also putting his business skills to use growing his own legal practice. He plans to open offices in Canada, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He expects to not only grow his business globally but attract more companies to South Carolina. “When I’m talking to people abroad who want to grow their businesses and immigrate to the United States, I’m talking to them about South Carolina because this is the place to be.”
171 Church St., Suite 340 Charleston, SC 29401 (843) 804-4844 www.occam-legal.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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Southeast Electronic Recycling
“We offer our expertise and “Pull quote or really awesome our services free of charge, stat or fact goes here. Pull and we pride ourselves on 100 quote or really awesome stat percent teardown and recycling or fact goes here. Pull quote or so that nothing gets thrown really awesome stat or fact goes away.” here.” – Angela Niquette, - John Johnson, CEO Co-owner
Rick Pellegrino and Angela Niquette, Co-owners of Southeast Recycling, at the warehouse where they sort and recycle old electronics.
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ld and retired electronics piling up? Look no further than Southeast Electronic Recycling. Rick Pellegrino and Angela Niquette, owners of Southeast Electronic Recycling, have made their business recycling discarded computers, printers and many other electronic devices. Unwanted electronics are one of the nation’s fastest growing waste streams. “We’ve been working in and around the e-waste industry for 25 years and have watched its inception and evolution,” says Pellegrino. “As the Southeastern economy grew, particularly in South Carolina, we saw a great need for a responsible electronics recycler.” Southeast Electronic Recycling helps South Carolina business owners get rid of their confidential data safely and responsibly, ensuring that nothing is wasted. According to Niquette, services include pick up, certified data destruction and asset reporting. “Companies are concerned with their sensitive data, and partnering with someone they can trust is vital,” Niquette says. “Also, with today’s concern for the environment, companies need to know their equipment is not ending up in the wrong place.” Private data, such as a company’s financial history, medical
records, and other proprietary information is expertly dealt with using a three-step process that ensures no information escapes. First, software created for the U.S. Dept. of Defense is used to overwrite all data. Next, all drives are sent through a high-powered magnet, and, finally, the drives are shredded, Pellegrino explains. “Even though only one step is considered acceptable, we feel our three-step process gives our customers the peace of mind they deserve,” Pellegrino says. There are other ways Southeast Electronic Recycling sets itself apart aside from data destruction—namely, not charging for services and not sending anything to a landfill. “We offer our expertise and our services free of charge, and we pride ourselves on 100 percent teardown and recycling so that nothing gets thrown away,” Niquette says. “Our services are not limited to traditional electronics, we specialize in audio/visual gear, medical and laboratory equipment,” adds Pellegrino. Looking forward, Southeast Electronic Recycling plans to continue to find new and innovative ways to help businesses handle the growing e-waste dilemma.
4244 C Scott St. North Charleston, SC 29405 (843) 501-7456 www.seerecycling.com
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
Integral Solutions Group
The Integral Solutions Group office building and staff in Charleston.
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hen you are looking at a technology-filled landscape that is always changing, it is important to ensure you are a step ahead. Integral Solutions Group is a technology company that stands apart by taking an all-encompassing, team approach to serving the technology needs of its clients. The company works as a partner and close advisor to its clients, assisting them in working through the design, integration and management of IT systems. “We take a holistic approach,” says Joe Strayer, Senior Vice President and General Manager. “We look at a company’s technology needs as a whole, and come up with custom solutions.” ISG is an operating division of the J M Smith Corporation, one of South Carolina’s largest privately held companies. Founded in 1987, Integral Solutions Group got its start with hard wire and cable systems, an important service they still provide. “We don’t have to bring in companies to do cabling or networking; we provide those services in-house,” Strayer says. Integral Solutions Group is headquartered in Spartanburg, and has locations in Charleston, Greenville and Columbia. Spartanburg offices include the Tier IV Data Center. Last year the company
acquired Radiate Technologies in Charleston to become the most extensive IT service company in South Carolina. Services for businesses with fewer than 500 employees are generally fully-integrated IT services. For larger companies, Integral can take over administrative IT tasks. Each client has a specialized and customized plan. This is especially important due to the growing requirements of regulatory issues with critical IT infrastructure. “Many companies have sensitive information about their customer base, and they have to store that,” Strayer says. “It’s important to have a provider to stand behind you and mitigate those vulnerabilities.” Integral Solutions Group works with large health care providers, financial institutions, law firms, educational institutions and more. “Our security assessments include external testing to detect any holes in the network and ‘social engineering’ to educate users on how to not be a target,” Strayer says. Integral Solutions Group has low employee turnover, which is important to build long-term relationships with clients. “We are truly committed to making sure we provide them with the very best technology solutions available,” Strayer adds.
141 Williman Street Charleston, SC 29403 (843) 513-1531 www.integralsg.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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Newmark Grubb Wilson Kibler
“A lot of people are moving here from larger cities, and they have high expectations relating to real estate services.” - Chip Olsen, Senior Vice President and Managing Director
From left: Taylor Hall, Mark Taylor, Pat Marr, Chip Olsen, Haskell Kibler, Alex Irwin, and Hank Beckham. Also on staff: Taylor Self and John Andersen.
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hip Olsen considers the Lowcountry to be the promised land, at least for Newmark Grubb Wilson Kibler. The fullservice real estate company, with offices in Greenville, Columbia and Myrtle Beach, is now investing in Charleston and its growth and anticipates the Lowcountry continuing its legacy of successful real estate services for tenants, landlords and investors. Originally known as Wilson Kibler, the company got started in 1987 and soon became one of the largest real estate firms in South Carolina, according to Olsen. After expanding across the state, Wilson Kibler eventually partnered with Newmark Grubb Knight Frank in 2013 and became Newmark Grubb Wilson Kibler, a company with the power of an international corporation and the personal touch of a local enterprise. Olsen, who is Senior Vice President and Managing Director of the Charleston office, couldn’t be happier to be in the Lowcountry. After many successful years at CB Richard Ellis with stints in Charlotte, Atlanta and D.C., Olsen and his wife relocated to Charleston to develop a new opportunity. “Charleston is changing,” he says. “A lot of people are moving here from larger cities, and they have high expectations relating
to real estate services.” The new Charleston office for Newmark Grubb Wilson Kibler is located right in the center of downtown, at 134 Meeting Street. Olsen says that the team is expanding to include enthusiastic professionals such as brokers, project managers and property managers, all local and with a passion for real estate. “Additionally, with the creation of our Charleston office we welcome Patrick Marr, a Vice Chairman with Newmark Grubb Knight Frank,” Olsen explains. “He’s a 30-year veteran and is based in D.C., but will spend a considerable amount of time establishing an institutional capital markets division, providing disposition and financing in the Lowcountry.” Olsen is excited and passionate about working with his partner, Hank Beckham, and the group of young brokers to grow Wilson Kibler in Charleston. “Our growth is coming,” he says. “I feel fortunate to be here. Charleston is a great market, and we have a unique opportunity in front of us. Having access to Newmark’s industry leading platform, the backing of Wilson Kibler and its history of great success within the state of South Carolina—plus a team of passionate professionals—is pretty cool.”
134 Meeting St., Suite 170 Charleston, SC 29401 (843) 881-8660 www.wilsonkibler.com
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2016 Profiles in B usiness | Special Advertising Supplement
Keystone Benefits Group
Top left: Jeff Gregg, Benefits Consultant with Keystone Benefits Group, with his family in Summerville. Top rIght: The staff at Keystone Benefits Group.
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n the complicated world of employee benefit plans, Keystone Benefits Group employs knowledgeable insurance and compliance experts who help companies comply with federal regulations while saving money in the process. Founder and President Kris Geary, who has 31 years of experience in employee benefit plans, started the Pennsylvania-based company in 2004 to help businesses save time and money with tailored design, implementation and administration of retirement and employee benefit plans. Keystone expanded to the Charleston market with benefits consultant Jeff Gregg, who moved to Summerville in 2010 and is bringing the company’s straightforward services to the local market. “It used to be that a health insurance broker would show up once a year with health insurance renewal rates on a spreadsheet, but it’s much more involved now,” Gregg said. “Many employers don’t even realize what they need to offer their employees – what’s mandated by the federal government. They could get fined.” The annual penalty for not providing health insurance coverage to eligible employees can reach $2,160 per full-time employee. Keystone Benefits Group makes sure employers comply with federal health insurance regulations; its consultants also save
companies money by restructuring and offering alternatives to traditional benefit plans. Two major health insurance options for companies, Gregg explains, are being fully-insured or self-insured. South Carolina is a very favorable state for self-insurance benefits and it allows companies to get money back from their insurance company at the end of the year if employees file fewer claims than expected. This can motivate employees to live healthier lives in order to lower the number of claims. In the past, self-insurance was only practical for large companies. With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, there are many reasons for employers with as few as 10 employees to consider it. “That’s what’s great about our knowledge in self-funding,” Gregg says. Keystone Benefits Group makes sure companies get everything they need from their plans along with the best rate possible. Geary says, “At the end of the day, we’re giving companies the confidence that someone has analyzed their situation properly.” “The differentiator is we are a single-source stop,” Geary says. “Our staff has the ability to answer all questions, and we are able to bring all that expertise in one place.”
Jeff Gregg (843) 771-9310 jgregg@keystonebg.com www.keystonebg.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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Data Imaging
“We have the best sourcing, pricing and service.” – Todd Kay, National Sales Representative
Todd Kay, National Sales Representative for Data Imaging.
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f you’ve ever worn an “I Voted” sticker in the state of South Carolina, you know Todd Kay’s work at Data Imaging. Printing those stickers for all the counties across the Palmetto State is just one of the major jobs his company handles for customers all over the Carolinas and well beyond. Todd opened the Charleston office in 1994 and continues to serve some 400 customers in the greater Charleston area while also working with Fortune 100 companies all over the country. Some of Todd’s local print and promotional customers include Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Lowcountry Food Bank, Charleston Southern University, Palmetto Surety Corp., AMH Marina Holdings and the Gaillard Center. Fortune 100 customers include Honeywell International in New York, the Stryker Corp., a billion-dollar medical products manufacturer, General Dynamics Land Systems, and City Electric Supply, which has 500 stores nationwide. As a national sales representative for Data Imaging, Todd brokers major printing jobs and large promotional product purchases for companies ranging from 50 to 5,000 employees. Whether printing brochures, catalogs or packaging labels, Todd works with customers to find the right printing press and logistics for the job.
Data Imaging works with more than 300 printing facilities. “We match the job with the right printing facility,” he says. Todd also can negotiate better deals for customers to ensure they are getting the best price possible for their printing needs. “It gives us a wide, diverse look at how to print something in the most cost-effective way,” he adds. Over the years, the company has added promotional products to its offerings as a way to diversify in the face of the changing printing industry. Todd says he works with more 10,000 promotional products suppliers to create everything from basketballs and tents to tote bags and T-shirts. Because Data Imaging isn’t a franchise, the company can continue to offer personalized service from its Charleston office as well as its three North Carolina offices in Charlotte, Hickory and Asheville. Todd and three other employees manage the Charleston office, working with customers in the Lowcountry and across 30 other states. “We have the best sourcing, pricing and service,” Todd says. “I take care of my customers.”
3 Gamecock Ave., Suite 310 Charleston, SC 29407 (843) 300-0091 www.datai.com Special Advertising Supplement | 2016 Profiles in Business
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Parker Land Surveying
Top left: The staff at Parker Land Surveying. Top right: Steve and Pamela Parker, Co-owners of Parker Land Surveying, and family.
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hen the housing market crashed in 2008, Steve Parker, a residential survey manager with Stantec, formerly Trico Engineering Consultants, in Charleston, realized his coworkers were going to lose their jobs. Rather than accepting the layoffs, Steve and his wife, Pam, decided to start their own land-surveying firm. “Pam and I knew the employees and our local clients,” says Parker. “We negotiated with Stantec, which allowed us to export that piece of the business without having to lay people off.” Since then, Parker Land Surveying has grown into a trusted and experienced go-to group of land surveyors across South Carolina. PLS staff have over 600 years of combined survey experience. “A lot of our staff are the same employees from the Trico days,” says Parker, who is Company President. Pam Parker serves as CEO, making it a woman-owned firm. The firm’s surveys involve all facets of development, Parker says. The firm works with builders on new construction for boundary surveys, tree surveys, wetland surveys, easements, subdivision platting, lot-fit studies and more.
“We do FEMA elevation certifications to determine the height of flood zones which insurance companies use to determine rates,” Parker says. It’s important to understand the legal importance of boundaries and how they protect the public, Parker says. The firm has done commercial work for Boeing and the Joint Base Charleston to replace the military base’s airplane runway. “We have an excellent reputation; companies hire us because of our customer service,” Parker says. “We put the best state-of-theart equipment in the hands of the best qualified people who do this kind of work in South Carolina.” It’s that investment and dedication to the business that made 2015 the best year in the company’s history. “Repeat business is our main source of revenue,” Parker says. The firm is very active in giving back to the community, sponsoring teams, participating in local Rotary Club and Water Missions events. “It’s nice to see that what you do can impact the community exponentially,” Parker says.
5910 Griffin Street Hanahan, SC 29410 843-554-7777 www.plssc.com
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