CONFERENCE SPONSORS
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
South Carolina’s manufacturing industry is a case study in evolution.
From its beginnings as a major textile and apparel producer — an industry that is still relevant today – to earning a notch on the electric vehicle Battery Belt, The Palmetto State is known worldwide for its adaptability and diversified collection of manufacturing industries.
SC Biz News plays a vital role in telling South Carolina’s manufacturing story. With markets in Charleston, Columbia and Greenville-Spartanburg-Anderson, SC Biz News has its pulse on the fast-paced sector that represents over $200 billion in economic investment statewide.
SC Biz News’ coverage culminates with its annual South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo, which brings together over 200 companies from across the Southeast drawing nearly 2,000 attendees each year to the Greenville Convention Center.
Inside these pages you’ll find details about the 2024 conference.
We’re excited to host the second-annual Manufacturing Mavens Awards. Building on the success of last year’s event, we’ll recognize nearly 30 women making an impact on South Carolina’s manufacturing industry, with a keynote from Nephron’s Lou Kennedy.
We’re also humbled to launch a new recognition event this year — Palmetto Proud will recognize South Carolina products and the companies behind them. Headlining Palmetto Proud is a keynote from Cody Thacker, vice president of growth at Scout Motors, which will build its all-electric SUV in Blythewood, right here in South Carolina.
And we’ll have the usual lineup of quality content that you’ve come to expect at the conference, including sessions on artificial intelligence, autonomous technology, virtual reality and sustainability.
South Carolina’s manufacturing evolution signals a new era of productivity and innovation that will reverberate across the globe — thanks to each of you.
We hope you enjoy the 2024 South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo.
Jason Thomas is the executive editor of SC Biz News. Reach him via email at jthomas@scbiznews.com.
SC Biz News has announced the 2024 Manufacturing Mavens honorees.
In its second year, Manufacturing Mavens, which is part of the South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo hosted by SC Biz News, recognizes female leaders and innovators in South Carolina’s manufacturing industry.
“Congratulations to all Manufacturing Mavens honorees,” said Scott Warofka, associate publisher of SC Biz News. “Honorees represent innovation and leadership in an industry vital to South Carolina’s economic health. We applaud their drive and determination, even when odds are stacked against them.”
Here are the 2024 Manufacturing Mavens honorees:
• Ronke Akano, Plant Manager, Chemical Value Stream, JW Aluminum
• Heather Bass, Vice President & General Manager, Carolina PEC - A Division of Carolina Filters Inc.
• Kellie Boone, Recruiting Manager, Horton Inc.
• Katherine (Kassie) Cartee, Plant Manager, Milliken & Co.
• Paula “Pixie” Dezzutti, Owner and CEO, Local Choice Spirits, Striped Pig Distillery, Sycamore BioPharma
• Suzanne Dickerson, Director – South Carolina Fraunhofer USA Alliance, SC Competes
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• Jessica Farmer, Assistant Manager within Fabrication, Seven Seas Corp.
• Mary Ellen Grom, Executive Director, Customer Experience Solutions, AFL
• Kim Hogge, Co-founder and Office Manager, Screwmatics
• Megan Johnson, Warehouse Supervisor, Nephron Pharmaceuticals
• Alissa Kasprzyk, Project Executive, Evans General Contractors
• Kimberly Kelley, Director of Manufacturing, Sportsman Boats
• Marian Kennedy, Associate Professor, Department of Material Science and Engineering, Clemson University
SC Manufacturing Conference to honor Manufacturing Mavens THINK
MAVENS continued on Page 19
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SC Manufacturing Conference honors inaugural Palmetto Proud honorees
SC Biz News is honored to reveal its inaugural Palmetto Proud honorees.
Palmetto Proud, which is part of the South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo hosted by SC Biz News, recognizes South Carolina-made products and the companies that make them.
“Congratulations to our first-ever Palmetto Proud honorees,” said Scott Warofka, associate publisher of SC Biz News. “Manufacturing is the heartbeat of South Carolina’s thriving economy, and we’re humbled to shine the spotlight on some of the products that help drive the Palmetto State’s economic engine.”
Here are the 2024 Palmetto Proud honorees:
• Allegiance Flag Supply (American flags)
• Arthrex (orthopedic products)
• Blue Ridge Log Cabins (log homes, rustic framed homes)
• BMW Manufacturing (BMW X models)
• Bosch (hydrogen fuel cell stacks)
• Boyd Cycling (high-end carbon and alloy bicycle wheels)
• Clemson Blue Cheese (artisanal cheese)
• Coastal Hydraulics (hydraulic and pneumatic systems and components)
• Continental (passenger, light truck and commercial tires)
• Hubner Manufacturing Corp. (gangway systems for buses and trains)
• Kanga Coolers (iceless coolers)
• Kentwool Socks (Merino wool performance socks and apparel)
• Keurig Dr Pepper (coffee pods)
• KION North America (electric counterbalanced forklifts)
• Lockheed Martin (F-16 Block 70 fighter jets)
• Michelin North America (radial passenger tires, light and heavy truck, Earthmover tires)
• Middleton Made Knives (custom-made culinary knives)
• Nason (pressure, temperature and vacuum switches; pressure and temperature transducers; pneumatic and hydraulic actuators, slides and automation components)
• Old Pro Tattoo LLC (tattoo aftercare anti-bacterial wash)
• Oshkosh Defense (next-generation delivery vehicles for the PROUD continued on Page 19
In 1984, in the heart of Upstate South Carolina, AFL's story began with the manufacturing one single product in it's Duncan facility. Today, our portfolio has expanded to over 3,000 products with 46 of ces, 13 manufacturing facilities and over 6,500 associates worldwide. Our growth is made possible by the PEOPLE who have powered us the last 40 years. The PASSION our associates have in caring for our customers and our communities. And the belief in our POTENTIAL for continued success.
SC Manufacturing Conference appoints inaugural advisory board
The South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo has appointed its inaugural advisory board, which will guide content sessions and future growth of one of the largest events of its kind in the Southeast. The board will serve two-year terms.
Jonathan Dawley has been president & CEO of KION North America Corp., a member of the KION Group, since 2020 and is responsible for all financial, commercial, engineering, and operational activities. Since 2020, KION North America has grown its revenue by over 125% and order intake by over 300%. A key
Dr. Ramy Harik, a Fulbright Alumni, is the director of the Clemson Composites Center and a professor of automotive engineering at Clemson University. Previously, Ramy was a professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of South Carolina and a researcher at the McNAIR Center. Harik holds degrees in
Nicole Johnson is a driving force behind the success of BOYD Cycling, a leading name in the world of high-performance bicycle wheels. With a passion for cycling and a commitment to innovation, Johnson co-founded BOYD Cycling and has played an instrumental role in shaping the company’s identity and mission.
A South Carolina native, Trent McJunkin has been in the trades since high school, where he began taking a welding class at a Pickens County high school career center. After enrolling in Tri-County Technical College, McJunkin found his interest for industrial maintenance while studying Industrial Electronics Technology.
Gerald Murphy has been the site director for the BASF sites in Mauldin and White Stone since March 2022. A Columbia native, Murphy earned his bachelor’s degree from Clemson University and his Masters’ in Business Administration from the University of South Carolina. Murphy has spent almost 20 years with BASF including almost
BIOS continued on Page 16
The state’s first Applied Baccalaureate program
The Bachelor in Applied Science in Advanced Manufacturing Technology at Greenville Technical College prepares graduates for technical and managerial positions in the growing global manufacturing sector, which drives South Carolina’s economic strength.
Technicians with plans to advance can build on their associate degree, adding two more years of education at Greenville Tech’s very affordable rates.
Find what works for you at .gvltec.edu/advanced-manufacturing/
AGENDA: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2024
2024 South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo
COFFEE KICKOFF/ Ribbon cutting with Greenville Economic Development/Greenville mayor
When: 8:30-9:30 a.m.
This coffee mixer will serve as the official welcome to the 2024 South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo with our host city and economic development organization welcoming guests and exhibitors.
• Special guests: Knox White, mayor, city of Greenville; Samuel Kondurous, president/CEO, Greenville Economic Development Corp.
HANDS OFF
How autonomous technology is driving the future of the manufacturing industry
What: Tech talk
When: 9:30-11 a.m. (panel starts at 10 a.m.)
Semi-autonomous and even fully autonomous vehicles within manufacturing operations are gaining independence, according to a report from PricewaterhouseCoopers. These can include an ever-growing list: free-range automated guided vehicles (AVGs), mobile robots, autonomous forklifts and cranes — and even low-payload drones. South Carolina is on the cutting edge of developing autonomous technology through research. Learn from innovative thinkers developing this new technology and how it represents the future of manufacturing efficiency and cost savings for your company.
Panelists:
• Jonathan Dawley, president and CEO, KION North America
• Venkat Krovi, Michelin Endowed Chair Professor of Vehicle Automation, Clemson University
• Wout de Backer, assistant professor, McNair Center for Aerospace Innovation and Research, University of South Carolina
• Trent McJunkin, Facilities manager, Oshkosh Defense
• William Fugate, director of overseas business development, SkyDrive
PALMETTO PROUD unveiling/Inaugural BEST PLACES TO WORK IN MANUFACTURING AWARDS
What: Luncheon/recognition event
When: 12:30-2 p.m.
• Gold Sponsor:
This luncheon will serve as the recognition event for our inaugural Palmetto Proud program and the first Best Places to Work in Manufacturing Awards. We will recognize 30 of the most interesting products being manufactured right here in South Carolina, preceded by a keynote address, highlighting the Palmetto Proud program. This will be followed by recognition of our inaugural group of Best Places to Work in Manufacturing awards, which is a partnership with Best Companies Group.
• Keynote speaker: Cody Thacker, vice president of growth, Scout Motors
ALL ABOUT AI
How your company can leverage artificial intelligence to enhance production and increase success
What: Tech talk
When: 2:30-3:30 p.m.
• Platinum Sponsor:
Artificial intelligence is changing the face of the manufacturing industry, creating a new era of optimization. The technology addresses challenges on multiple fronts, including summarization, contextual data understanding, coding assistance and asset management. Our panelists address opportunities created by this emerging technology and reveal how you can leverage neural networks to improve production and take your company to new heights.
Panelists:
• Ramy Harik, professor of automotive engineering, Clemson University
• Rahul Rai, associate director, The Artificial Intelligence Research Institute for Science and Engineering (AIRISE), Clemson University
• Navid Hashemi, assistant professor of computer science, director of Data Science Graduate Program, College of Charleston
• Joe Delpercio, Head of AI and data analytics, Zeus Industrial Products
• Thorsten Wuest, professor of mechanical engineering, University of South Carolina
GOING GREEN
How a circular economy can drive sustainable packaging in South Carolina
What: Tech talk
When: 4-5 p.m.
• Platinum Sponsor:
Sustainability and the demand for more circular materials — packaging that can be reused, recycled or composted — is driving innovation like never before in the manufacturing industry. Our panelists offer advice and best practices to implement a circular materials program at your company while adopting the latest technology, and highlight the latest in sustainable packaging research, development and implementation that can improve efficiencies and increase cost savings while helping save the environment.
Panelists:
• Wes Carter, president, Atlantic Packaging; founder, A New Earth Project
• James Sternberg, assistant professor, sustainable packaging, Clemson University
• Scott Byrne, director, global sustainability services, Sonoco
• Leslie Skardon, CEO, Sustain SC
AGENDA: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2024
KEEPING
IT REAL
How virtual reality is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry — and what it means for your company
What: Tech talk
When: 9-10:30 a.m. (panel starts at 9:30 a.m.)
Virtual reality is revolutionizing processes for the manufacturing industry, to everything from improving worker safety, designing and building, speeding new products to market, reducing training costs, managing inventory, to increasing productivity. Our panelists will offer insight on how to capture virtual reality technology to streamline and improve processes at your company.
Panelists:
• Michael Ross, program director, advanced manufacturing and skilled trades, Midlands Technical College
• SueZanne Driscoll, project manager, Be Pro Be Proud SC
• Kelvin Byrd, dean of advanced manufacturing and transportation technologies, Greenville Technical College
• Laura Cox, regional workforce advisory director, South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce
MANUFACTURING MAVENS
Celebrating women leaders elevating South Carolina’s manufacturing industry
What: Recognition event/keynote address
When: Noon-1:30 p.m.
Join us for the second-annual Manufacturing Mavens awards where we recognize women trailblazers in the South Carolina manufacturing industry, followed by a keynote address.
• Keynote speaker: Lou Kennedy, owner, Nephron Pharmaceuticals
• Platinum Sponsor:
• Gold Sponsor:
SOU TH CAROLINA MA NUFACTURING
CONFERENCE AND EX PO
2024 FLOOR PLAN
Scan the above QR code for the most up to date exhibit floor layout.
Directory begins on page 17
element of growth has been organizational and distribution development, in which Dawley has led establishing strong leadership at all levels to enable sustainable results.
Under Dawley’s leadership, KION North America announced an operational expansion doubling production capacity and installing deep vertical integration. This focus, on localized manufacturing
Mechanical Engineering (BS/MS), Automated Manufacturing (MS), and Industrial/Mechanical Engineering (PhD). His teaching focuses on manufacturing, smart manufacturing, and composites manufacturing.
Harik serves as an associate editor for SME Manufacturing Letters and authored the “Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing”
capability and an enhanced global supply chain, supports KION North America’s ability to unlock profitable growth, advance market penetration and achieve the highest levels of customer satisfaction.
Before joining KION Group, Dawley was the Americas CEO of Putzmeister Holding GmbH, a subsidiary of Sany Heavy Industry Corp.. It was there that he led all corporate functions and sites from Canada to Brazil.
textbook published by SAE. His book “Manufacturing vs Corruption: Who Wins?” won the 2023 Independent Press Award Distinguished Favorite for Social/Political Change books. In 2024, Harik received the SC Governor’s Award for Excellence in Scientific Awareness, South Carolina’s highest honor for promoting science education and supporting the future workforce.
Johnson’s journey in the cycling industry began with a deep love for the sport. Her personal experiences as a pro cyclist fueled her desire to make a lasting impact on the cycling community. Recognizing the need for premium quality, high-performance cycling products, she teamed up with her partner, Boyd Johnson, to redefine the standards in the industry.
McJunkin is passionate about the growth of manufacturing in South Carolina and the continued innovations of automation and technology that enable us to be more effective. Working in the OEM automotive
a decade working at the Seneca site in a variety of roles. He also worked in Texas and Louisiana as well as in Germany with global responsibilities across Asia, Europe and the United States. In addition, he has been a manager and worked across several sectors to include
• OPPORTUNITIES
Discover thousands of projects of all types and sizes from across the Carolinas that fit your needs.
• DISCOVER PROJECTS ON THE HORIZON
See the complete list of projects that are “on order” and arriving soon.
• JOB TRACK
Easily follow a project throughout the bid process.
• PROJECT ALERTS
Instant notification of changes to projects you are following.
• BID OPENINGS
Review posted bid results, bid awards, and new RFP & RFQ requests.
• MY PREFERENCE FEATURE
Give us your job type and the area you want to operate and we will automatically find projects for you!
Under Johnson’s leadership, BOYD Cycling has become synonymous with innovation, precision engineering and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. Johnson’s visionary approach has led to the development of cutting-edge wheelsets and components that have earned worldwide respect.
manufacturing sector, for BMW Manufacturing and now at Oshkosh Defense, for over a decade has helped him find more opportunities for growth and helped him develop his passion for building excellence within an organization through systems and processes.
pharmaceuticals, automotive, and petrochemicals.
The BASF sites in South Carolina produce chemicals that are vital to the sustainability of our economy and quality of life. Employees are committed to producing safe, clean and reliable products that are used throughout the world and in consumer items used every day.
A Alloy
Allyn
Alro
Alston
EXHIBITOR DIRECTORY
Asset
B
Bauknight
Black
Boplan
Bosch
SEJ Services, LLC ................................................220
Servcom USA ......................................................... 216
SEYMOUR Advanced Technologies, LLC. “1114, 1107”
Signatures Apparel 211
Smash My Trash 210
South Carolina Research Authority ............. 713
Southern Industrial Constructors, Inc. ...... 1106
SouthStar Capital ................................................. 815
Splash Omnimedia/ BrandBuzz .................. 506
SSOE Group ........................................................... 243
SuiteRep LLC.......................................................... 712
Sunland Logistics Solutions........................... 606
SW Funk Industrial Contractors .................... 614
Synesis International ........................................... 619 T Terracon 613
Terra Nova Solutions 805
Thermal Energy Engineering Company 808
Thomas Concrete, Inc. 907
T-Mobile 1001
Total Industrial....................................................... 1110
MAVENS continued from Page 7
• Mary Kimani, Advanced Quality Engineer – New Product Development, Trane Technologies
• Cheryl Lang, CEO, Tindall Corp.
• Jena-Christine Lawrence, Director of Product Management, KION North America
• Regina Lopez, Vice President, Supply Chain, Proterra
• Katie Lyon, Co-founder, Allegiance Flag Supply
• Jenn McQuestern, Vice President of Corporate Communications, Zeus Industrial Products
• Lori Morgan, Director of HR/Head of Compensation and Benefits, Draexlmaier Group
PROUD continued from Page 8
U.S. Postal Service)
• Puckerbutt Pepper Co. (all-natural hot sauces)
• RX Industries (components for firearms, munitions, and suppressors, medical equipment components; aerospace and exploration sectors)
• SafeRack (gangways and loading ramps and platforms; safety equipment; aviation mobile platforms; )
• Sage Parts (replacement parts for aviation ground support equipment)
W.B. Guimarin & Co............................................ 609
• Trish Pagan, Vice President, F-16 Programs, Lockheed Martin
• Kami Reiber, Finance specialist, Oshkosh Defense
• Michele Thompson, Contract Manager, SafeRack; Sponsorship Director, Women in Manufacturing
• Tricia Wallwork, Chair and CEO, Milo’s Tea Company, Inc.
• Michelle Wilson, Master Planner of Commercial Yarn, Shaw Industries
• Brandy Zadoorian, CEO and Principal Consultant, Triangle Safety Consulting
• Qian Zhang, Professor, Department of Engineering, College of Charleston
• Tina Zwolinski, CEO and Founder, skillsgapp –Skillionaire Games
• Sealevel Systems Inc. (next generation controller for GE Vernova gas and wind turbines)
• Spartanburg Meat Processing Co. Inc. (global supplier of fully cooked baby back ribs)
• Sportsman Boats (center console and bay boats)
• Wolverine Coatings Corp. (liquid applied lining for drinking water storage tanks, pipes and components)
• ZF Transmissions (new generation transmissions with plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle capability)
• Zylo Therapeutics (topical delivery platform for the pharmaceutical industry)
FORT Y
The Forty Under 40 Awards celebrate exceptional professionals aged 40 and younger who have significantly impacted their organizations and the local community within the past year.
The Women of Influence Awards recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of women from various industries and sectors, including business, entrepreneurship, public service, education, and community engagement. These remarkable women have demonstrated exceptional leadership, resilience, and innovation, paving the way for future generations. March
Top Projects honors the best South Carolina construction projects completed the previous year from infrastructure and transportation to renovations, private buildings and major public projects.
Statewide - May 2025
Best Places to Work in South Carolina is a research-driven program from Best Companies Group that examines your company’s practices, programs, and benefits and surveys your employees for their perspectives.
Statewide - August 2025
The Most Influential Leader event spotlights leaders who have played an important role in the business community in South Carolina.
Empowering Women awards recognizes companies and organizations that have shown a strong commitment to supporting and elevating women in South Carolina.