South Carolina Business November/December edition

N o v e m b e r /D e c e m b e r 2014 V o l . 35 N o .6

Paving the Way to the Future Business Leader of the Year Infrastructure and Public Policy Middle Skilled Workforce Development Public Servant of the Year Sgt. William Jasper Freedom Award South Carolina Top 100™

Providing advice and counsel to businesses in the fast lane Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd helps U.S. and international companies find a home and do business in South Carolina.

Recognizing that automotive and aerospace manufacturers, suppliers and OEMs have a diverse set of legal needs, Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd is comprised of attorneys with experience in economic development, commercial law, employment, government relations, real estate, environmental and regulatory law, tax, intellectual property law, restructuring, and acquisitions.

Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd serves as a comprehensive resource for legal services from the plant to the highway and skyway.

Boyd B. (Nick) Nicholson, Jr., Managing Director | ONE North Main, 2nd Floor | Greenville, SC

contents f e a t u r e s Paving the Way................................................................................ 12

By Katie Schanz and Julie Scott

November/December 2014 Volume 35, Number 6

South Carolina Chamber of Commerce 1301 Gervais Street, Suite 1100 Columbia, South Carolina 29201 800.799.4601 www . scchamber . net

Hiring a Vet........................................................................................ 14

12

By Lida Citroën

Erasing the Middle Skills Stigma................................................. 18

By Penny Delaney Cothran, APR

Full-time Student. Part-time Employee....................................... 22

By Mitchell R. Harp, MA, MT (ASCP) and Melissa J. Stowasser

I Am the Future of S.C. Business.................................................... 24

18

By Penny Delaney Cothran, APR

He Got Here as Soon as He Could................................................ 28

By Julie Scott

Deep and Wide................................................................................... 42

By Penny Delaney Cothran, APR

The Man Who Loved the Military............................................... 48

By Penny Delaney Cothran, APR

M P resident & C hief E xecutive O fficer OTIS RAWL A ssociate V ice P resident of C ommunications

JULIE SCOTT

22

M ultimedia M anager PENNY DELANEY COTHRAN, APR G raphics and W eb A dministrator

Tourism helps drive economy in South Carolina. ............................................................ 8

By Duane Parrish

South Carolina Department of Revenue is informed, service driven........................... 9

28

By Rick Reames

South Carolina agribusiness strong and growing...................................................10

By David M. Winkles, Jr.

REID PRICE

M SOUTH CAROLINA BUSINESS MAGAZINE E ditor PENNY DELANEY COTHRAN, APR A rt D irection & D esign TIM MCKEEVER / TMCA INC.

Departments

42

Message from the Chair.............................3

Pamela Lackey Message from the President........................4

Otis Rawl Message from the Governor......................6

Nikki Haley Previous Business Leaders of the Year. .....34

48

P roduction & P rint C oordination TMCA INC.

AFTER THE EVENT Best Places to Work. .........................52 Palmetto Vision Awards. ...................54 LeadSC Summit...................................56 Wecome, New Members. ...........................59 South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Leadership...........................60

South Carolina Top 100TM........................36

South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Staff...................................62

Previous Public Servants of the Year........47

Advertiser index........................................63 Palmetto Stars.................................................64

The opinions and views expressed by the contributors to this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, it’s staff or members.

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P ublished by CONVERGING MEDIA LLC A dvertising S ales CONVERGING MEDIA LLC DEIDRE MACKLEN 803.318.3923

PUBLISHING & MEDIA SERVICES

Copyright © 2014 by Converging Media LLC and the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. All foreign and U.S. rights reserved. Contents of this publication, including images, may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. Published for the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce by Converging Media LLC. 803.256.3010

Message fr om the Chair

Building for the future B y P amela L ackey

W

alking to my office each morning, I pass a collection of photos of my AT&T predecessors. While I never had the opportunity to know or meet many of them, I worked with some earlier in my career. And seeing their faces always reminds me that, as business leaders, we benefit from the personal investment and commitment of those who have gone before us, even as we build for the future.

This long-term view of business growth is fundamental to the identity and purpose of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. During this year, as I’ve been privileged to serve as Chair, I’ve seen first-hand the professionalism and passion which the South Carolina Chamber staff brings to the task of helping all our businesses prepare for success.

You will recall that the 2014 Competitiveness Agenda, which we published last year, laid out an aggressive list of forward-looking legislative priorities. I am pleased to report that South Carolina’s public policy leaders shared our desire to emphasize the future of the state, even as we continued the economic recovery. The Agenda included finding sustainable ways to fix our infrastructure, addressing healthcare costs and tackling comprehensive tax reform. While there’s still substantive work to be done, we are making progress.

I was particularly pleased with the progress regarding our education and workforce development priorities. At AT&T, we have long been a strong supporter of business engagement in education. So it is exciting to see the enthusiasm with which other businesses and the Chamber are joining the effort. Developing a highly-skilled and well-educated workforce is, was and will be integral to increasing job opportunities, landing employers and competing on the global scene. The Chamber has been particularly productive in this area this year, as we have renewed and strengthened relationships with the South Carolina Technical College System, TransformSC, Apprenticeship Carolina and other education groups.

This has been a boon year for economic development within our state, while on the national scene, our leaders continue to wrestle with topics like the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank, Medicaid expansion and burdensome energy and environment regulations.

I recently had the opportunity to speak at the inaugural LeadSC Young Professionals Summit. It was a great experience, for the conference highlighted the tremendous enthusiasm and talent which the next generation of business leaders is bringing to their companies and to our community. These young professionals are interested in issues important to us as a Chamber, and I am excited about the impact they are having and will continue to have in helping achieve our priorities.

In conclusion, I would like to thank you for the opportunity to have served you this past year. But most of all, I want to thank the South Carolina policymakers who take our efforts seriously and who are committed to working with us in building a great future and thriving economy for this wonderful state.

Pamela Lackey is president of AT&T South Carolina and the 2013-14 chair of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.

s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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Message fr om the President

The No. 1 issue facing employers

T

here are many important issues facing the competitiveness of South Carolina, but there is one that cannot be denied: infrastructure needs. I applaud the House Ad-Hoc Committee that convened a few months ago for taking leadership on infrastructure and starting the serious conversations early, before the General Assembly returns to Columbia in January.

The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce holds a series of listening sessions across the state each summer with business leaders and local chambers of commerce. At every single meeting this summer (and for many years, frankly), infrastructure has emerged as the top priority, as it relates to the safety of our citizens, job creation and economic development. No one can deny the tight link between sound infrastructure and economic development.

Also, I meet with my counterparts from North Carolina and Georgia quite often and while we may surpass them on many competitive measures, and while both of our neighbors are typically near the top of the list along with South Carolina, their infrastructure far outpaces ours. It is obvious as soon as you cross the border in either direction. It is embarrassing, and I can tell you, CEOs talk about it often.

Consider these facts: • Just 29 percent South Carolinians are riding on what is considered “good” pavement right now.

• 31 percent of our interstates experience recurring congestion.

• Almost half of our primary roads are rated in “poor” condition.

• There are 830 structurally deficient bridges that our citizens are riding on every day. Almost half of those are load restricted, meaning

businesses have to reroute trucks just to do daily business.

Critically important to the business community is • Widening projects on interstates • Fixing load restricted and deficient bridges, and • Resurfacing existing roadways.

When Michelin, BMW and other manufacturers located to this state many years ago, they were promised a sound infrastructure network. In fact, that’s a huge reason why they located here in the first place. Bridgestone, Boeing, Toray and Continental, just to name a few, have made South Carolina home more recently, and they expect South Carolina’s infrastructure to support – not inhibit – their businesses.

Just this past April, the South Carolina Chamber commissioned a study of 800 Republican voters from across the state. We wanted to find out what their appetite was for a user fee (or gasoline tax) increase. We gauged this and so much more.

• Respondents ranked infrastructure concerns near the top as the single most important issue they’d like to see government do something about.

• Half of these Republican respondents said they would be willing to pay a higher tax on gas if they knew the dollars would be used for

road improvements.

• About 64 percent said they support a multi-faceted approach to fund roads and bridges (a combination of taxes and user fees).

• More than 85 percent said that state government has a duty to ensure roads and bridges are safe and reliable.

• Finally, the majority of our respondents said they believe the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is doing a good job.

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South Carolina is working under a recently reformed system that included SCDOT restructuring in recent years and the establishment of Act 114 that ranks how our dollars are spent.

Just as we are a victim of our own success related to things like superb port growth, this progress has naturally exacerbated traffic on our interstate system.

How can we create jobs and focus on economic development priorities like deepening our harbor to 52 feet and not care for the infrastructure Otis Rawl is president and chief executive officer of networks that will the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. support it?

It is impossible to separate success in economic development from increases in freight demand and traffic congestion. Therefore, our success in attracting growth hinges on the state accepting the responsibility to accommodate new development by funding our infrastructure system. We urge the General Assembly to address infrastructure needs now, in a comprehensive and recurring manner.

Only bold, forward-thinking and bipartisan leadership from the General Assembly will ensure this critical priority is adequately addressed in 2015.

South Carolina’s Largest Company

Sonoco at a Glance SONOCO

Ranked 5th in Fortune magazine’s World’s Most

We are a packaging company [SONOCO],

Admired Companies listing,

not a petroleum company [SUNOCO].

Packaging and Containers segment.

4

Segments: • Consumer Packaging • Paper and Industrial Converted • Display and Packaging • Protective Solutions

19,900 Employees

Silver Class 2014

at 335 locations in 33 countries, serving customers in 85 nations.

Message fr om the Governor

Team South Carolina B y G overnor N ikki R. H aley

I

t is truly a great day in South Carolina, and with a new year around the corner, now is the time to reflect on our successes and plan for the future.

Over the past four years we have made a lot of progress. We have cut taxes for small businesses, reduced regulations, watched our unemployment rate drop faster than the national average and had more people working than at any other time in our state’s history. Even better, we are just getting started.

When we first came into office, we weren’t always working together, especially when it came to economic development. We had towns competing against towns, counties against counties and regions against regions. In order to compete with our bigger neighbors like North Carolina and Georgia, we knew we needed a new approach – we needed to be united.

That is why you constantly hear me referring to “Team South Carolina” – and this change in approach has made a big impact.

Since 2011, we have been able to announce 57,000 new jobs and nearly $14 billion in capital investment in our state. In the last 200 weeks alone, we have announced over 400 new projects, and not just in Greenville and Charleston, but in 45 out of our 46 counties.

This is an accomplishment we can all be proud of, and it is a direct result of Team South Carolina coming together and showing the world that our state is a premier destination for businesses looking for a place to call home.

South Carolina is blessed to have one of the best and most qualified workforces in the world and it’s one of the reasons so many companies have chosen to locate and grow in our state. However, ensuring our workforce stays competitive will not happen on its own, and that is why we need to continue providing the training and skill development programs that will prepare our citizens for the quality jobs coming to our state.

The fact is, our future success in economic development, and as a state, depends on this and it is something my administration is focused on delivering.

Our state and our economy are in a great place right now, and our future is incredibly bright. We are strong, we are growing, and we know where we want to go and how to get there.

Together, I know we can – and will – accomplish great things.

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G overnor N ikki R. H aley

RETURNING INDEPENDENCE TO WOUNDED VETERANS (AMONG OTHERS) MEANS GETTING THEM BEHIND THE WHEEL AGAIN.

DRIVEN TO HELP

Dr. Johnell Brooks’ key interest, simply put, is discovering inventive ways to help people drive safely as long as possible.

She is a human-factors psychologist in Clemson’s department of automotive engineering. She, her colleagues and her students use a full-size driving simulator to conduct driving-related research, ranging from studies of visual limitations during night driving to distracted driving due to multitasking (think texting).

But bigger isn’t always better, and her driving simulator was large — too large for the space limitations of hospitals and private research facilities. This led her to form a partnership with the simulation technology company DriveSafety. The result? Brooks translated her full-size driving simulator into a smaller, simpler and less-expensive model, and it is now being used in more than a dozen Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense facilities that treat wounded warriors.

“I am now working alongside Clemson engineering students to develop and test designs for hand controls,” Brooks says. Being able to drive a car without using legs and feet, to control the gas and brakes with one’s hands, is a real-world solution that encompasses the elderly, stroke victims, accident survivors, disabled persons, wounded soldiers, young adults on the autism spectrum — and on and on down the road.

Determined ot empower others. HEAD ON.

clemson.edu/headon

ECONOMIC DRIVER

Tourism helps drive economy in South Carolina B y D uane P arrish

J

ust a few years after the nation’s recession, tourism in South Carolina has rebounded and is growing at record levels. This healthy performance not only contributed to the state’s recovery, it also creates and sustains jobs in the Palmetto State, generates much needed tax revenue and builds an environment for new investments.

With visitor spending, investment by business and government and merchandise exports combining for an overall economic impact of close to $18 billion, tourism is a major economic force in South Carolina. Recent economic impact data suggests that tourism generates $1.3 billion in state and local tax revenues, supports one in 10 jobs and reduces taxes for the average South Carolina household by $728.

Tourism’s trend upward is best found in its most reliable indicators. In 2013, domestic travelers to South Carolina spent $11.5 billion – up 4.1 percent from the previous year. And RevPAR, or revenue per available hotel/lodging room, which directly correlates to visitation levels and spending, was up 6.7 percent in 2013. While estimates of visitor expenditures are not yet available for 2014, a RevPAR increase of 10.9% for January through August of 2014 suggests a very strong year for tourism.

This performance alone is impressive, especially so soon after an economic recession. What’s more significant, however, is the level of capital investment that followed, suggesting there’s growing confidence in South Carolina’s economic potential behind tourism.

This past summer, the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism reported investments totaling more than $400 million in the state on new hotels, attractions, sports complexes and other facilities that depend on tourism. Some of those include $80 million spent on a new Hyatt House and Hyatt Place hotel facility on upper King Street in Charleston and $23 million spent on a new planetarium, observatory and expansion at the South Carolina State Museum. Smaller investments like the $3.1 million spent in

Anderson County to expand Green Pond Landing into a tournament-grade launch point for fishing tournaments and $3 million spent in Beaufort on the renovation of a historic waterfront inn further indicate positive impressions about South Carolina’s ability to draw visitors to underdiscovered places.

Investments of a different sort – major national and international events – also demonstrate a high level of comfort in the growing demand for South Carolina vacation experiences.

The PGA of America recognized Kiawah Island’s and Charleston’s ability to host major events and draw spectators when they chose those destinations for its 2012 PGA Championship. And, for the 47th year, the PGA Tour will hold the RBC Heritage golf tournament at Sea Pines on Hilton Head Island in April. The Golf Channel’s popular series “Big Break” chose Myrtle Beach for its 22nd season after recognizing that destination’s appeal to golfers and travelers.

Additionally, two international cycling events will be coming to Rock Hill in the next few years, following a $7 million investment in a new supercross training facility. The new Novant Health BMX Supercross Track built in Rock Hill’s riverfront area will host the UCI BMX Supercross World Cup September 25-26, 2015 and the UCI BMX World Championships July 26-30, 2017.

Tourism is growing and driving business to the Palmetto State, generating jobs and revenue at significant levels. With a high number of new investments in its wake, tourism again has affirmed its role as an economic driver in South Carolina.

Duane Parrish is the director of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT).

Parrish has dedicated over 35 years of his professional career to the hospitality industry, including extensive experience in hotel property management and development throughout South Carolina. He was appointed to his current position

by Governor Nikki Haley in January 2011.

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by R ick R eames

S

ince my appointment as director of the South Carolina Department of Revenue

by Governor Nikki Haley in July 2014, I have sought to use my experience within the private sector to assess performance and identify opportunities and strategies for improvement. As a tax law partner with a regional firm for nearly 15 years, I represented various businesses and industries from local, homegrown companies to large, multi-state corporations. I saw first-hand the types of support businesses from both ends of the spectrum need to be productive and profitable.

South Carolina business and industry deserve a department that is fair and consistent in its administration and application of the law. Businesses need a department that is informed and servicedriven, able to make decisions and provide responses efficiently and effectively. This focus is at the core of the Department of Revenue’s mission, and I am dedicated to advancing this mission on behalf of all taxpayers, including our state’s businesses.

The South Carolina Department of Revenue is committed to the economic development of South Carolina through close involvement with the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. As a member of the South Carolina Department of Commerce’s Coordinating Council for Economic Development, I work alongside key stakeholders to coordinate and strengthen our state’s efforts in the recruitment of new enterprise and the expansion of current enterprise in South Carolina.

Serving as chair of the Council’s Enterprise Committee, I am directly involved in job creation in South Carolina.

As a result of this experience and service, I recognize the great value of such collaborations and want to create new opportunities to communicate and partner with constituents, policymakers and industry leaders. The Department regularly meets with companies and trade groups, including the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, to facilitate a pro-business agenda in South Carolina.

Functional security is a top priority for the Department as well as working to proactively identify and address processes and procedures in need of improvement.

From utilizing beneficial new technologies to removing unnecessary barriers to

Since being appointed director in July 2014, Reames has led efforts for Implementation of a new integrated tax processing system that will include a comprehensive taxpayer portal providing singular access to all taxpayer services Organizational restructuring to maximize efficiency and productivity including transitioning information technology from a functionally independent division to a fully integrated core component of the agency Development of a new user-friendly website to be launched by 2015 offering improved taxpayer education, service and support

ECONOMIC DRIVER

South Carolina Department of Revenue is informed, service driven

productivity and performance, we will continually evaluate and enhance the way we do business. We have made significant strides to improve taxpayer compliance with an easy-to-use and secure electronic filing system. South Carolina’s rank as fourth nationally for the number of electronic filings demonstrates that our efforts are working. In addition, we will launch a new, more user friendly and searchable website by 2015, continuing efforts to provide improved taxpayer education, service and support.

As just a small example of how the Department is working to improve efficiency and operate in a customer-friendly manner, we worked recently to reduce a significant and unacceptable lag time in the issuance of tax compliance certificates that a purchaser obtains when buying another business or property. By developing a dedicated channel and monitoring team and allowing requests and issuances to be done electronically, the Department has cut the processing time from around four weeks to 48 hours.

Also, we have begun implementation of a new integrated tax processing system that will modernize the way taxpayers interact with us. Previous efforts by the Department to develop a system in-house proved to be too expensive as well as inefficient. We pulled the plug on this costly program, and have purchased, at significant, comparative savings, an off-the-shelf product vetted and in use by other states. Government works best when it brings a common-sense approach to its mission.

As we continue to build on this progress and look for additional opportunities to improve, we welcome involvement from policymakers, industry leaders and our constituents. Together, we can work to advance South Carolina with a government that supports fiscal stability and economic growth.

Rick Reames was appointed director of the South Carolina Department of Revenue by Governor Nikki Haley on July 18, 2014. He may be reached at director@dor.sc.gov or 803.898.5040.

s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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ECONOMIC DRIVER

South Carolina agribusiness strong and growing B y D avid M. W inkles , J r .

S

outh Carolina’s centuries-old agrarian economy remains strong. In fact, agribusiness represents the state’s largest economic engine, contributing $34 billion annually to the economy and creating 200,000 jobs, based on a conservative independent study in 2008 funded in part by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, the Palmetto Agribusiness Council, the South Carolina Farm Bureau Federation and others.

The South Carolina Department of Commerce claims that agribusiness (agriculture and forestry combined) has the largest impact on the state’s economy, reporting that the state’s growing network of agribusiness-related companies and suppliers includes family owned and operated farms, large scale private farms, livestock producers, major food manufacturers and processors, and wood and timber related companies.

South Carolina is home to more than 25,000 farms, amounting to almost 4 million acres of farmland providing food, fiber and fuel. With a long growing season of up to 290 days, South Carolina farmers make use of the relatively mild weather to grow produce almost year round, which gives South Carolina’s agribusiness industry an advantage in production over many other states.

Today’s successful farmers make wise sophisticated business decisions using technology to produce higher yields using fewer natural resources and inputs. Technologies are in place to closely monitor the farms’ soil, moisture, and nutrient conditions, making certain only the amount of inputs used are absolutely necessary for quality crop development and production.

The Palmetto State is responsible for much of the nation’s production of livestock, fruits and vegetables, ranking 35th in the nation in total value of agricultural products sold, 33rd in the value of crops and 32nd in the value of livestock, poultry and their products.

Our family farmers rank second nationally in peach production (second only to California) and flue cured tobacco, sixth in peanuts, seventh in watermelons, eighth in cantaloupes, cucumbers, and sweet potatoes, ninth in turkeys and tenth in tomatoes. The top 10 leading commodities within the state are (in descending order): broilers, turkeys, greenhouse/nursery, cotton, corn, cattle/calves, soybeans, peanuts, chicken eggs and wheat.

Internationally, the US ranks in the top three for both agricultural output and amount of cropland.

While in-state commerce is certainly an asset to our

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economy, South Carolina also exports $1.4 billion annually in agricultural and forestry products according to SCDA. This creates a ripple down through the economy so that the spending cycle and the economy grow. In fact, farm families return approximately 80 percent of every dollar earned back into South Carolina’s economy.

In addition to the large production of crops and livestock, the South Carolina agribusiness industry generates substantial labor income. The 2008 study shows that labor income generated by the agriculture and forestry industries is estimated to be almost $7.5 billion every year. These statistics do not include food stores and restaurants as part of the agriculture industry. Nor do they include jobs in the fiber industry or various forestryrelated recreational activities or government employees involved in the forestry industry.

As the agriculture and forestry industries continue to work together, our economy will expand and our state becomes better for everyone.

Agribusiness works hard to reduce environmental impacts every day so our natural resources are preserved for future generations.

While reducing production costs, farmers use sound environmental practices.

Agribusiness is part of South Carolina’s heritage, and because it is such a vital link in maintaining the economic progress of South Carolina as well as the food, fuel and fiber necessary for us to survive, it is here to stay and will continue to flourish in our state.

With a long growing season of up to 290 days, South Carolina farmers make use of the relatively mild weather to grow produce almost year round, which gives South Carolina’s agribusiness industry an advantage in production over many other states.

David Winkles, SC Farm Bureau President, is a family farmer from Oswego in Sumter County. His farm produces soybeans, corn, wheat and timber.

CELEBRATING

30 YEARS

For 30 years, customers around the world have relied on AFL’s technologically-advanced fiber optic products to provide faster and more reliable communication networks. As technology changes, AFL is building cutting-edge products to meet the needs of our customers. As we continue to grow in the upstate of South Carolina and around the world, we commit to lead with integrity, deliver innovative solutions and connect with our communities.

www.AFLglobal.com 864.433.0333

Paving the Way

Infrastructure Tops List of Business Priorities B y K atie S chanz and J ulie S cott

A

nyone driving along South Carolina’s interstates has encountered severe congestion, potholes and dangerous conditions. Whether it’s Interstate 26 from Charleston to Columbia, Interstate 85 in the Upstate, Interstate 95 in the eastern part of South Carolina or a primary or secondary road anywhere in the state, one thing is clear: the time to address our roads and bridges has come. South Carolina cannot delay any longer.

In 2013, Mikee Johnson, president and CEO of Cox Industries and 2014-15 chairman of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, said, “Like thousands of other businesses, Cox Industries utilizes the state’s infrastructure on a daily basis, carrying products to and from the port and using our state’s interstates and secondary road system. Time is money. It is imperative that we have a reliable and safe infrastructure system so that commerce can easily flow throughout the state.”

Compounding the issue is the fact that the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is responsible for maintaining 40,000 miles of roads and bridges, the fourth largest state maintained system in the nation. Couple this with the fact that the Palmetto State relies largely on a 16-cent per gallon motor fuel user fee (gas tax) that has not been increased since 1987, and it is a recipe for disaster. In fact, 1987 represented the most significant investment in infrastructure in 27 years.

Consider this: any citizen who accepted a job in 1987 at $15,000 per year would not expect to make $15,000 still today. That would be ludicrous. How can we reasonably expect to maintain the road system on 1987 dollars?

Today, SCDOT has consistently said the agency is managing “the decline of the infrastructure system in South Carolina” as no significant changes have been made to funding for roads and bridges for more than 25 years.

Some areas are so desperate they have taken on some of the most immediate projects themselves. Penny sales taxes for infrastructure have been passed in more than 10 counties across the Palmetto State. “While York County and its businesses are fortunate to have an additional source of road improvement funds through a voter-approved one-cent sales tax, these revenues address only a portion of the transportation needs of an area growing at this county’s rate,” said Rob Youngblood, president of the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“Truly the best thing our legislators can do to promote economic development in the counties of South Carolina is to establish a state infrastructure system that is continuously funded, priority based and politically unobstructed.”

L egislative A ction N eeded

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n early 2013, the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and 14 allied organizations released the Road Map to the Future, a detailed package outlining three critical areas of infrastructure in need of a revenue stream for

The 16-cent per gallon motor fuel user fee (gas tax) has not been increased since 1987.

The SCSPA is making significant capital investments in new and existing terminals to remain competitive.

continued economic development success in South Carolina. The Road Map called for widening South Carolina interstates, fixing load restricted and deficient bridges and resurfacing existing roadways. That year, the General Assembly took a small step forward and allocated $650 million toward infrastructure, using bonds and one-time money for bridge repair. Those dollars are being put to work based on the recently developed priority system under Act 114, SCDOT restructuring passed by the General Assembly.

The 2014 legislative session saw no movement from the General Assembly in finding a comprehensive, sustainable and recurring funding plan for the state’s crumbling infrastructure.

“I view infrastructure as an investment. Not just for today, but for our future.

If South Carolina’s economy is going to reach its full potential, we must invest in infrastructure,” said South Carolina Senate Majority Leader Harvey Peeler.

In September 2014, House Speaker Pro Tempore Jay Lucas appointed a “Special Infrastructure & Management Committee” to address road funding. As of October, the committee had heard from business leaders, SCDOT agency heads and other stakeholders on the dire needs facing infrastructure. Representative Gary Simrill, who serves as chairman of the committee, said “Ask any lawmaker, from any corner of our state, they’re all hearing the same thing from folks back home. What are you going to do about our roads? This is a statewide concern, a statewide problem, and it’s going to require a statewide solution.”

Some members of the General Assembly cite additional SCDOT restructuring as a first step to addressing the deterioration of the infrastructure system. However, in a recent poll of Republican voters, the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce found that the majority of citizens believe SCDOT is doing a good job with the funds it is allocated.

For her part, Governor Nikki Haley has committed to finding a solution to infrastructure needs.

I mpact on E conomic D evelopment

S

ound infrastructure means being truly open for business. At a series of nine regional meetings held across the state in conjunction with local chambers of commerce with hundreds of CEOs and employers, the top issue at every single discussion was addressing the state’s woefully underfunded infrastructure.

With significant economic development announcements coming in almost weekly coupled with forward movement on long awaited port expansion, business leaders are baffled that legislative leaders did not proactively prepare infrastructure but are encouraged by the special House Ad Hoc Committee as well as discussions in the Senate in 2014.

No significant changes have been made to funding for roads and bridges for more than 25 years.

“The SCPA is making significant capital investments in new and existing terminals to remain competitive in our industry, and we depend on South Carolina’s transportation infrastructure to move goods to and from our terminals,” said Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority. “The prioritization of adequate, safe and reliable inland railways and interstates is a conversation in which the port will actively participate because it is crucial to our business.”

Area Development magazine’s ”Top States for Doing Business” recently ranked Georgia first, followed by Texas then South Carolina. The survey delved into 18 subcategories under the topics of business environment, labor climate and infrastructure/global access. South Carolina was No. 3 for business environment and No. 2 for labor climate, but did not make the top five for infrastructure.

D own the R oad

“O

ur Chamber considers maintenance and repair to our interstates, roads and bridges a quality of life and economic development issue of the highest priority,” said Rita Berry, president and CEO of the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce. “It is imperative that the General Assembly address this issue in the upcoming legislative session.”

There is no doubt that finding a sustainable, recurring funding solution for the state’s roads and bridges must occur sooner rather than later. This includes specifically prioritizing interstate improvements as well as secondary road maintenance. Every funding mechanism must be on the table. Though much discussion has centered on increasing the 16-cent per gallon motor fuel user fee, to adequately address funding needs, a multi-faceted approach must be excelled.

There are a number of funding mechanisms the General Assembly can choose from. Some options include additional dedication of General Fund revenue, Capital Reserve funds, redirecting additional vehicle related revenues, and of course, increasing license and user fees.

South Carolina’s business leaders and citizens are ready. Will our General Assembly join us?

Katie Schanz is legislative counsel and Julie Scott is associate vice president of communications at the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.

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Why it could be your best business decision B y L ida C itroĂŤn

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ith the nation in recovery, investment in resources is growing.

We see new commercial construction underway and consumer spending on the uptick. With all this new growth, companies are starting to loosen the stronghold on hiring freezes initiated when the economy was plummeting. As hiring managers and recruiters across the country seek to find talent, a highly untapped and ready workforce awaits employment. Currently, there are roughly 163,000 unemployed post-9/11 veterans and more than 600,000 unemployed veterans overall.

These individuals are the beneficiaries of more than $130 billion of investment in training, education and skill building from the US government.

Hiring former military personnel could be the best business decision a company (and a hiring manager) makes.

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“ The veteran could be an ideal candidate for a position with vague goals and boundaries, where cross-functional objectives compete for resources, or where global pressures require quick responses, while keeping long term vision in mind.

W hy aren ’ t hiring managers recruiting veterans ?

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here is a disconnect between veterans and civilian hiring managers, and it goes both ways. Veterans overwhelmingly leave military service unprepared and unarmed with the tools to position themselves as viable candidates to civilian companies, and hiring managers are unskilled and untrained in how to recruit military veterans for jobs outside of service.

The challenges include – Reading the resume – Hiring managers often lack training to read and understand a military resume. What does being an E-6 mean? Did a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force hold more management responsibility than a Major in the Army? What does it mean that you did Command and Control Battle Management Operations in the Air Force, and how is it relevant for the position I’m recruiting for?

Inability to sell themselves – In the military culture, the focus is on mission, unit, and the person next to you, not on you. Self-promotion and selffocus are unacceptable and discouraged. Therefore, when veterans leave service, they struggle when answering questions such as, “Tell me about a success you had that you are most proud of.” To the veteran, this would mean being disloyal.

To the hiring manager, not getting an answer is frustrating and suspicious.

PTSD – Civilian media has not done an adequate job of educating the public about PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and the numerous other challenges former military live with after service. We intuitively believe that someone who has “seen the unthinkable” and lived in conditions of violence, hostility and stress for a long period of time will undoubtedly have emotional effects long after the situations change. But what does that mean for a hiring manager looking to add a new team member to their company?

Skills not transferrable – Without a clear outline of which military skills translate to which civilian job responsibilities, it may be unreasonable to expect that hiring managers with no military experience can understand how someone who worked front lines in the infantry can lead their IT staff through a new project. Or, how a combat medic is qualified to hold a sales position in their pharmaceutical company.

Fit in the organization – Hiring managers seek skills, experience and talent in recruiting new employees, and they look for cultural fit as well. Each candidate is evaluated for the value they bring and can offer to new and existing teams, how well they will assimilate into the organization and where they will lead. The perception that a military veteran is used to barking orders, meeting high-stress timelines and putting feelings aside for execution on mission can deter recruiters from evaluating a veteran candidate.

”

S o what can the veteran employee b ring to the organi z ation ?

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eterans see their work as a career, not a job. To them, a job is the place you show up, perform work and earn a wage for services. A career, on the other hand, is where you commit your whole self, build a foundation of skills, talents and experience, and add value to the organization, the mission and the team at every step.

After years of service, sometimes multiple deployments to violent and stressful environments and sacrifice of family and friends, veterans transition to a civilian career with little more than a week or two of preparation. It is no wonder that veterans struggle with articulating, positioning and marketing their value to civilian employers.

Here are some of the key reasons why hiring a veteran could be your best business decision yet – Problem solving – The military teaches its personnel to think beyond what they can see, touch and smell. The training veterans received in service is the ultimate in problem solving – anticipate and prepare for anything or the consequences could be deadly. While most veterans will not face life and death problems in their next career, they are trained to think creatively and to not be deterred by obstacles. Where their civilian counterpart might stop in the face of a challenge, the veteran will persevere until a resolution is identified. For employers that seek independent thinkers, solution-oriented team leaders and focused employees, veterans are the ideal candidate.

Loyalty – When attrition accounts for a great deal of corporate revenue loss, and the costs to replace one employee are very high, having a workforce that is selective and then loyal is of high value. Veterans committed their lives to their s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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“ Members of our military are trusted with the defense of our country and because of this they understand commitment , leadership , professionalism and how to follow instruction while being innovative . H iring our veterans is good business and the right thing to do .

”

Barbara Livingston, Director of Human Resources Gregory Electric Company, Inc.

former employer, risking it all and sacrificing much. They are taught that loyalty is admirable and that walking away from challenge is not an option. This makes them tremendous assets to organizations that seek leaders to help manage risk, high performing teams and critical initiatives where loyalty and follow-through will produce valued results.

Trainability – When an individual joins the military, typically at a young age, they do not enter with the training needed to perform at exceptional (and lifesaving) levels. They learn how to be an expert through the training, drills, real world situations and those around them. When exiting the military, these same individuals are again very trainable and capable of learning new skills, talents and abilities. This is an advantage for a company seeking to fast track the on-boarding and contribution of new employees.

Credentials – After service, many veterans enter the job market with advanced credentials and clearances. For companies in industries where a background check or government security clearance – such as banking, information technology and healthcare – are requirements, this is a direct cost savings.

Adaptability – The military trains its personnel to survive in various rigorous and unpredictable environments. They are moved from location to location, often in foreign countries where rules and protocols do not exist. Military personnel are often in scenarios where they are outside the norms they understand, where everything from the language to the subtleties of cultural differences are foreign to them.

The level of adaptability and survival skills necessary to stay focused on the mission and protect your assets and troops is extraordinary. This translates to adaptability on many levels in business – the veteran could be an ideal candidate for a position with vague goals and boundaries, where cross-functional objectives compete for resources, or where global pressures require quick 16 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

responses, while keeping long term vision in mind.

Family – When a service man or woman deploys, they say goodbye to the support system that gives them strength. While on tour, that service person learns to rely on a new family – those serving alongside.

The transition to a civilian career means reconnecting with family and integrating to a new world. To veterans, this is a natural time to bond with co-workers, other veteran employees and their community, much like they learned to do when in service.

Mentoring – The day a new recruit enters the military, they are met with a peer who walks them through the process – from where to get supplies, to what to expect in boot camp and where they should sit in the mess hall. Mentoring is a huge part of the military culture and veterans carry this belief with them after service. Companies seeking team leaders and employees who will enlist support for their goals and encourage other employees are smart to hire veterans.

Businesses investing in human capital are wise to learn how to recruit, onboard and retain veterans. The small investment in training a hiring and recruiting team on how to read military resumes, interview veterans and recruit veterans online is returned in a workforce that contributes at levels that exceed expectations.

Lida Citroën principal of LIDA360, a consulting firm that helps create effective market positioning through the use of brand strategies. She regularly presents at conferences, events and programs, teaching transitioning veterans how to understand their unique value and market them to future employers.

M2M from end to end.

Let the conversation begin.

Work with us and benefit from the full suite of connected devices and application services that will power your versions of the Internet of Things. AT&T experts will help you find the solutions you need to power any and all aspects of innovative, effective machine-to-machine strategy, deployment, and integration. Š 2014 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T and the AT&T logo are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property.

Erasing the Middle Skills Stigma

C

B y P enny D elaney C othran , APR

ongratulations to the graduating class of 2014! You are collectively the most indebted class of four-year college graduates in the history of the United States. According to Time magazine, student debt averaged $35,051 for

2014-2015. Even when adjusted for inflation, that’s double the debt

M

iddle-skilled jobs account

for 54 percent of the U.S. labor market. More than

load of students 20 years ago. That’s not all. In June 2010, total U.S. 50 percent of the top 50 student loan debt passed total revolving credit (better known to us as jobs in South Carolina do credit card debt) for the first time in our collective credit histories. (That’s not require a bachelor’s $830 billion in student loans versus $826.5 billion in revolving credit). degree or higher.

Knowing this, how do families weigh the pros and cons of a fouryear college degree before signing those acceptance letters? For a century or more, there was only one option for the American boot-strapper’s upward mobility: the bachelor’s degree. While we still need these degrees (and advanced degrees, too), South Carolina’s students should know of the array of paths and options laying ahead of each and every high school graduate.

“Every parent, grandparent and kid in high school wants to go on and get a four year degree. That’s been the dream that we’ve all been sold,” says Brad Neese, director of Apprenticeship Carolina. “But it comes at a really high price. In some cases, that price can be virtually eliminated by going through a nontraditional route like an apprenticeship program.” Many families would agree that a $35,000 price tag might be worth the expense if it guaranteed their child a fulfilling, rewarding and amply salaried position at the end of it all. Could there be another means to that end? Enter Apprenticeship Carolina™.

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South Carolina Business (SCB): What does apprenticeship seek to accomplish that a traditional four year education track does not?

Brad Neese (BN): An apprenticeship is a combination of education and application of the education. The heart of an apprenticeship is the job training that’s overseen by a qualified mentor. You can go to school at night to learn the theory behind what you do on a daily basis. It’s honing your craft.

SCB: Where does Apprenticeship Carolina see the critical needs and skills gaps?

BN: We’re seeing it across all industries. We’re not just seeing it in manufacturing or IT. We’re seeing it in healthcare and hospitality and tourism. This is different than the way we’ve grown apprenticeships in the past in our state, where they’ve traditionally been in crafts and trades like welding and construction. Actually, that’s only 10 percent of what we do [now] in our state.

Pulling business to the table to be part of the education process has been really important to us. Apprenticeship programs have the ability to customize education to fit [the business’s] needs.

SCB: Why should an adult look at a job in these critical needs areas first?

BN: There’s opportunity there. They’re high demand jobs, and they pay really, really well. These apprenticeship programs can help those folks create a roadmap to get to those higher-skilled jobs.

SCB: Is apprenticeship the short road? What are the variables that weigh on an individual’s decision to seek an apprenticeship?

BN: There are folks with four-year degrees who aren’t finding employment in management and are seeking apprenticeship-type jobs so they can find employment. Our apprentices’ average age is 28 years old. So these are people who aren’t fresh out of high school looking for their first job. Often times, these are people who have families, have had previous lives, and are now seeking to change their career or get on a career trajectory that’s going to help them further along.

SCB: How do you recruit businesses?

BN: At the end of the day, we’ve got to have more companies who are willing to use apprenticeship programs. We have a little over 700 companies now, but there’s something like 250,000 companies in our state. It’s very difficult for us to get out in front of parents right now and think about the apprenticeship route because there are not enough apprenticeship opportunities available.

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o, what options were being presented to high schoolers? Susan Flanagan, director of the Office of Career and Technology Education at the South Carolina Department of Education, is a 30-year veteran of the Department of Education, becoming the CATE [Career and Technology Education] state director in 2012.

“My passion is to increase awareness of what CATE programs have to offer in our secondary schools and the knowledge of career pathways that exist for our students in South Carolina,” she begins.

SCB: What industries are affected by the shortfall of middle-skilled labor? Where are the critical needs jobs going to be in the future?

Susan Flanagan (SF): Every industry is affected by the shortfall of middle-skilled labor. Healthcare is a

major industry in South Carolina – but a hospital is more than the doctors and registered nurses who work there.

Essential employees include radiation technologists, pharmacy technicians, nursing assistants, medical coders, equipment and facility maintenance operators, and the truck drivers who deliver medical supplies to the hospital. For every high-tech job created, there are numerous other jobs created in that same industry or supporting industries that will require a trained workforce with more than a high school education but less than a four-year college degree. In South Carolina, projections for the best occupations are in the healthcare, manufacturing and transportation and logistics fields. Opportunities also exist in construction, business (especially information technology) and middle-level management.

SCB: What is your department doing? What strides has your organization made in addressing the gap in critical needs workforce development?

SF: The Office of Career and Technology Education assists school districts and career centers across the state in providing programs within the 16 career clusters, allowing students to be exposed to career pathways, gaining employable skills while still in high school and transitioning to a post-secondary institution to earn further certifications/credentials. Our schools

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Susan Flanagan speaks at the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce’s education and workforce development forum on CATE programs.

have local advisory committees made up of business partners to ensure that instruction matches industry needs. Articulation agreements exist between our school districts and the local technical colleges that allow the seamless transition from high school to post-secondary education so that students have the potential to be gainfully employed. In South Carolina, 96 percent of students who take the prescribed four course sequence in a Career and Technical (CATE) program are placed into a postsecondary institution, employment or the military. That is a statistic that tells a powerful story!

SCB: When speaking with educators and parents, why should some students be steered away from the

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4-year college “dream” a n d t o w a rd t h i n g s like credentialing and apprenticeships? What are the stigmas? What are the factors that play into that type of decision (e.g. access to financial aid and scholarships, the hiring market, the economy, long term student debt)?

SF: No one should be steered away from their “dreams” – but all opportunities should be equally presented to allow for informed decisionmaking. We want every child who graduates from high school to be college- and career-ready, but that does not necessarily mean a four-year college degree. The 21st century workplace is a highly technical workplace that demands workers who are high school graduates with some specialized preparation beyond high school.

Data recently released from the National Skills Coalition indicates that middle-skilled jobs account for 54 percent of the U.S. labor market. More than 50 percent of the top 50 jobs in South Carolina do not require a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Last year, CATE students earned credentials in fields such as nursing, welding, automotive and computer networking, and participated in 100,944 work-based

learning experiences. During this past year, our office began working with Apprenticeship Carolina at the South Carolina Technical College System to promote youth apprenticeships to high school students. These apprenticeships allow students to gain first-hand experience in actual industry settings. The collaboration often includes the local technical college and provides students with the chance to earn high school credit and college credit simultaneously. In several cases, the technical college pays for the student’s tuition and the student can earn a certificate or credential, get a job and be free from student loans. The Michelin Technical Scholars Program is just one example of such a program.

It offers scholarships to select students in the Electronic Engineering Technology major at Midlands Technical College and covers the cost of tuition, fees and books – while allowing the student to participate in a paid co-op program reinforcing classroom knowledge by working part time in a Michelin manufacturing facility.

SCB: What’s the greatest barrier in your opinion of filling middle-skilled jobs?

SF: Changing the mind-set that middle-skilled jobs are not good jobs. These are good paying jobs; they are nothing like the factory jobs of yesterday. These jobs require advanced skills and knowledge of technology.

By educating people about these new opportunities, we can attract students to CATE programs and convince them, and more importantly, their parents, that these jobs are future pathways for job security and financial success.

Penny Delaney Cothran is the multimedia manager at the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and editor of South Carolina Business.

Full-time student.

Part-time employee .

Charleston leaders partner to create region’s fırst manufacturing youth apprenticeship program B y M itchell R. H arp , MA, MT (ASCP) and M elissa J. S towasser

Recognizing a need for an alternative career pathway for high school students and with industry’s demand for more skilled labor in the region, community leaders in Charleston, S.C. came together to establish a sector partnership and develop the region’s first U. S. Department of Labor (USDOL) Manufacturing Youth Apprenticeship program.

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Shannon Brennan, youth apprentice from Goose Creek High School, meets with her mentor, Nekedia Gaillard, to review the production schedule at Charleston’s Cummins Turbo Technologies.

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he sector partnership includes high schools in four Charleston area school districts, Trident Technical College, the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and a consortium of industry partners.

Current industry partners include IFA Rotorion North America LLC, a direct supplier of prop shafts for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles; Robert Bosch LLC, a leading global manufacturer of automotive equipment, power tools, household appliances, automation systems, security systems and packaging technology; VTL Group, a manufacturer of turbocharger products for light and industrial commercial vehicles; Hubner Manufacturing Corporation, a major supplier of articulation systems to the bus market; Cummins Turbo Technologies, a manufacturer specializing in heavy-duty Holset turbochargers; and Detyens Shipyard, the largest commercial shipyard on the East Coast.

“IFA-Rotorion strongly supports the Youth Apprenticeship in Charleston and we see it as another avenue to grow and develop our future workplace,” says Debbie Meuli, IFA-Rotorian’s HR manager. “The competition for talent, especially in the technical fields, is very difficult. Taking our youth and allowing them to gain work experience, develop a trade and receive pay while earning an education is an excellent program. It supports our community, our education system and our company. Everyone wins.”

The innovative program began in August 2014 with 13 students from Fort Dorchester High School, Garrett Academy of Technology, Goose Creek High School, R. B. Stall High School, Wando High School and West Ashley High School. The 11th- and 12th-grade students receive on-the-job training through part-time employment with the industry partners while attending high school and Trident Technical College as dual-credit students taking industry-specific courses.

“The Apprenticeship program is a tremendous opportunity for our students,” says Virginia Reijners of

regarding the face of modern day manufacturing, the Youth Apprentice Program will serve as the needed conduit for developing the next generation of talent.”

Students who successfully complete the apprenticeship program will receive a high school diploma, a certificate in Industrial Mechanics from Trident Technical College and a journeyman credential from the United States Department of Labor. All 27 college credits earned in the certificate program can be applied toward an associate degree at Trident Tech. Industry partners will provide student apprentices with parttime employment throughout the school year and full-time employment during the summer while enrolled in the program. Students are not Jason McCallum, youth apprentice from Goose guaranteed continued employment upon graduation, Creek High School. but will be considered for full-time employment with Charleston School District. “In career and technology industry partners if opportunities are available.

The successful start of this year’s program has education, our teachers strive to connect the classroom instruction with the real world application. An already encouraged the manufacturing community apprenticeship opportunity is the ultimate real world to begin planning for another cohort of industrial application because it combines the technical instruction mechanic apprentices and a new machine tool with the soft skills that are also so important for success.” apprenticeship for August 2015. The initiative has also inspired the hospitality and “ T h e Yo u t h A p p re n t i c e P ro g r a m Youth Apprenticeship Carolina yields: information technology sectors in the Charleston i s p ro v i n g a v a l u e d High School Diploma region to build their own component of VTL’s vision Industrial Mechanic’s Certificate sector partnerships and to develop and retain youth apprenticeships for manufacturing talent,” Journeyman’s Credential hotel operations, culinary, says Jeff Teague, general Real Work Experience computer networking and manager of VTL Precision programming.

Inc. in Charleston. “The The Manufacturing Youth Apprenticeship is program gives a much needed infusion into manufacturing as the mean age for incumbent the first of its kind in Charleston and represents a employees continues to rise. Additionally, our community-wide collaborative approach to developing youth apprentices give employees the opportunity a comprehensive career pathway that provides a to mentor and teach skills gained through years of seamless transition for students from secondary to postdirect experience. This has proven to be a boon for secondary education, and then to the workforce. This employee engagement, retention and attracting program positions students for the high-wage, highnew talent. I have no doubt that as word spreads demand and high-skill careers of the future.

The manufacturing initiative has inspired the hospitality and information technology sectors in Charleston to build their own sector partnerships and youth apprenticeships for hotel operations, culinary, computer networking and programming.

“We are convinced that by investing early in our young people we can be a catalyst in creating interest in today’s manufacturing and will be supporting the creation of the 21st century workforce that we will need to continue to thrive here in Charleston,” says Willis D. Pugh, plant manager at Charleston’s Cummins Turbo Technologies.

Mitchell Harp heads the Apprenticeship Office at Trident Technical College (TTC). The office’s primary role is to assist companies who are interested in starting a U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program using TTC as their educational partner. Melissa J. Stowasser is the director of high school programs at Trident Technical College. She works with public and private high schools and homeschool associations to develop educational opportunities for high school students in the region.

Bosch “signing day” “The Youth Apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity for Bosch to build relationships with the local high schools,” says Louie Roberts, pictured here. “The program will provide Bosch and other companies in the area with the next generation of trained associates for our future workforce.”

Back row, left to right: Louie Roberts, Human Resources Business Partner; Karen Winningham, Human Resource Specialist, both from Bosch.

Front row, left to right: Michael Reynolds, John Thames, Curtis Schall, all Youth Apprentices.

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f o e r tu u F the

I Am S.C. Business B y P enny D elany C othran , APR

T

he South Carolina Chamber of Commerce is pleased to recognize the winners of its annual Business Week scholarships during the 35th Annual Summit. Each summer, the South Carolina Chamber selects the brightest young adults during Business Week to hold the honor of being our state’s scholarship recipients. Let’s get to know the five future business leaders who rose to the top of the class this past year.

S. Hunter Howard Jr. Scholarship The $5,000 award recognizes a Business Week student who consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership abilities and was introduced in 2008 in honor of S. Hunter Howard Jr., retired president and chief executive officer of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.

Winner: Wilfredo Hector Anderson 11th grade Crestwood High School, Sumter Hometown: Panama City, Panama What was the most important lesson you learned at Business Week? The most important lesson I learned at Business Week this year was the true value of teamwork. It was truly amazing to see the things my company could accomplish once we all worked together.

What do you enjoy studying in school? I enjoy studying economics, finance and integrated business applications in school. I wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

What do the members of your generation understand about the future of business that you wish older business leaders understood?

I believe the members of my generation understand the concept of vivid imagination.

What’s the best advice anyone’s ever given you? The best advice I’ve ever been given is a quote my father has instilled in me: “Dream like you’ll live forever, live like you’ll die tomorrow.”

What’s next for you? I plan on graduating high school and pursuing secondary education.

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Ron McNair Leadership Award, contributed by SCE&G This $5,000 scholarship, contributed by SCE&G, may be used at the South Carolina College or university of the winner’s choice. Established in memory of Lake City native and astronaut Ron McNair, the award recognizes a Business Week student who consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership abilities.

Winner: Sarah-Ellen Floyd 12 th grade Scholars Academy at CCU Hometown: Myrtle Beach, originally from Savannah, Georgia What was the most important lesson you learned at Business Week? In my company, there were many strong personalities. It took the first day for everyone to get acquainted. The most important thing that I gained from the experience was the interpersonal skills to moderate the different perspectives of my company members.

What do you wish to study/major in when you get to college? I am excited to enter the field of international business and law. I aspire to attend the University of South Carolina’s Honors College to earn my degree in international business with a minor in German. I plan to continue my study of international business in graduate school while becoming a juris doctor.

What’s the best advice anyone’s ever given you? Someone once asked me “What happens if you stay?” This simple, unpresuming question had a profound impact on me. I frequently refer back to it as encouragement for perseverance, asking myself “What happens if I stay?” It has pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone and to reach for something better.

What’s next for you? I’m looking forward to wrapping up my high school journey and moving on to college. I hope to study abroad in Germany to gain a

better understanding of global business. The world is evolving rapidly and I am preparing to take my place in it.

Rawl Family Scholarship The Rawl Family Scholarship, named for the Chamber’s president and CEO, Otis Rawl, and his family, in the amount of $2,000, may be used at the South Carolina College or university of the winner’s choice.

Winner: Charrae Priester 12th grade Ridgeland-Hardeeville High School, Ridgeland Hometown: Ridgeland What was the most important lesson you learned at Business Week? The most important lessons I learned at Business Week this year was how to be an effective leader, establish relationships and network.

What do you wish to study/ major in when you get to college? Upon graduation, I hope to triple major in marketing, business management, and global logistics and transportation, with a minor in German.

What do the members of your generation understand about the future of business that you wish older business leaders understood?

Members of my generation understand that the future of business depends on technology. They understand the rapid pace of the world and no longer think nationally but globally.

What’s the best advice anyone’s ever given you? The best advice I have received by far was from my company adviser Chris Campbell (like the soup). In one of our many company meetings he discussed the importance of taking charge of your future and creating your own personal brand. With his help I was able to begin networking with my first Linked In account.

What’s next for you? I was recently crowned Miss Ridgeland-Hardeeville High School. With this title I hope to branch out into my community and began to build better relationship between our students and community leaders for the advancement of our community. In the fall I hope to attend a four-year university.

My hope is that through rigorous course work, studying abroad and outreach programs offered through the university, I will be able to achieve my career goal of working in marketing and helping rebrand businesses.

NEW! Mechanical Contractors Association of South Carolina Scholarship The inaugural Mechanical Contractors Association of South Carolina Scholarship is a $2,500 award that may be used at the South Carolina college or university of the winner’s choice.

Winner: Amelia Macloskie Freshman University of South Carolina, Columbia Hometown: Sumter What was the most important lesson you learned at Business Week? I learned how to work well with others and solve common problems in a realistic environment.

What do you wish to study/major in when you get to college? I am currently a “provisional admit” to the Darla Moore School of Business and plan to double major in international business and global supply chain management. My minor is French.

What do the members of your generation understand about the future of business that you wish older business leaders understood? That there are new and interesting ways to accomplish goals. Just because a system has worked to get the job done in the past doesn’t mean there isn’t a newer and more efficient way to reach the same end.

What’s the best advice anyone’s ever given you? If you want it, you can make it happen.

What’s next for you? Continuing my studies at USC

Chelse Ward Elliott Scholarship This $2,000 scholarship is presented in memory of Chelse Ward Elliott, wife of long time Business Week company advisor Tony Elliott.

The scholarship may be used at the college or university of the winner’s choice.

Winner: Antonia Danielle Adams 12th grade Strom Thurmond High School, Johnston Hometown: Edgefield What was the most important lesson you learned at Business Week? The most important lesson that I learned was perseverance in leadership.

As a second-year CEO of a company, I learned how to effectively manage a group of people with divergent interests and skills.

What do you enjoy studying in school (or wish to study/major in when you get to college)? My faith is very important to me and I believe that the ministry is my calling in life. I would like to major in theology and apologetics in college. Apologetics is the study of the Christian faith and how to defend it.

What do the members of your generation understand about the future of business that you wish older business leaders understood? I believe that members of my generation understand the importance of social media as a vital part of the future of business and the global economy.

What’s the best advice anyone’s ever given you? At Palmetto Girls State, one saying that is taught year after year is “Walk with purpose.” This saying applies to all activities, whether it is walking, eating, talking or public speaking. This phrase encourages young leaders to do everything with the purpose that it will ultimately lead to success.

What’s next for you? I hope to graduate from high school as an honor graduate and continue a successful academic career at a quality Christian college.

After that, I plan to attend seminary and receive my Ph.D. in a theological field of study and begin a ministry.

Companies interested in learning more about student sponsorships or scholarships for 2015 Business Week should visit scbusinessweek.com, or contact Robbie Barnett at 803-255-2625.

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We see a lively downtown district where local shops and businesses thrive and residents gather to live, work and play. South Carolina’s small towns are a critical part of our state’s economic engine that attracts industry and creates jobs. www.CitiesMeanBusiness.org

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26 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

10/8/2012 9:52:16 AM

Bank of America is honored to support South Carolina Business Like individuals, businesses are members of the community. The most extraordinary enterprises take this connection to heart, investing important resources to help their neighborhoods grow.

Bank of America is honored to support South Carolina Business for active community involvement and playing a vital role in advancing the public good.

Visit us at bankofamerica.com/local

Life’s better when we’re connected® ©2014 Bank of America Corporation | ARLJT8GF

28 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

~ Mike Brenan ~

2014 Business Leader of the Year

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B y J ulie S cott

P ORTR A IT BY S and y A nd r e w s

ike Brenan learned the importance of community when he was just a young lad. As a twice-a-day paperboy, riding his bike through the streets of Knightstown, Indiana (population: 2,000), he traveled his neighborhood streets early in the morning, then again in the evening. Some mornings after his route, he met up with his fellow paperboys for donuts where they would discuss the latest town happenings.

Growing up in Knightstown, about 30 miles outside of Indianapolis, Brenan’s favorite thing to do was play baseball. He enjoyed the outfield the most, but played all positions. He remembers those days fondly. “One of my favorite memories is this little ball field in Knightstown. When I go back to visit, I always make it a point to go to that ball field and just sit and remember what it was like to play baseball,” Brenan says.

M

He Got Here As Soon As He Could

2014 B u s i n e s s L ead e r o f th e Y ear ~ Mike Brenan ~

I

n those days, US 40 was the thoroughfare from east to west in the United States. The highway ran straight down Knightstown’s Main Street.

A young Brenan and a friend, who lived up on a hill overlooking Main Street, would often sit and watch the traffic, counting license plates to see if they could get all 50 states in a day.

was the University of Tennessee, and that was to run track,” says Brenan, where he excelled at the 400 meter race. “I had enough money to go for one year.” He attended the University of Tennessee that year, but returned home after he didn’t have enough money to stay. In the end, Brenan graduated from Bowling Green State University with a degree in economics and another in education.

“I had three job offers,” he recalls. “I could be a teacher of social studies, sell typewriters for IBM or work in a bank. The lowest paying job was the one working in the bank.” He weighed his options and concluded that banking had the most potential for a rewarding career. He was right.

C oming D own S outh A L ove o f L earning

W

hen Brenan was a teenager his family moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. As a teen, Brenan worked for the city and the parks and recreation facilities, often cleaning ditches. One would think, as a banker today, Mike Brenan would have excelled in mathematics in high school. But Brenan loved English and history more than any other subject. It was his teachers who had the most profound impact on him.

“I tend to have more of a memory of my teachers,” he says. His 7th grade history teacher, Mr. Nixon, used the first day of class to teach his students a life lesson. He took to the chalk board, writing what he deemed the definition of average. Mr. Nixon wrote, “The average is the best of the lousiest and the lousiest of the best.” Brenan never forgot those words. “That resonated with me as a seventh grader,” he says. “I didn’t want to be just an average student.”

He became an “A” student from then on.

Brenan had an appointment to attend the Air Force Academy, but lost a kidney during his senior year of high school, so attending became out of the question. “The only other school that talked to me

30 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

B

renan met his wife, Julie, in Mansfield, Ohio where he was serving as the “No. 2 guy for a bank.” Julie’s parents introduced the two at church. Today, family and faith values are what keep this tight-knit clan, with four children – two girls and two boys – together. “A lot of what we do is around family and things we’re involved with in the community,” he said.

Brenan became a bank president at 34 years old. In 1998, he was running a bank in Virginia when the company was sold to BB&T. He moved to Winston-Salem, North Carolina, then ultimately to Columbia, South Carolina in November of 1999.

“I didn’t grow up here, but I got here as soon as I could,” Brenan says. He loves Columbia, the state, South Carolina’s people, the history and its traditions. “It’s easy to get to know everybody in this state,” he says.

BB&T is essentially a southern company, founded in 1872 in Wilson, North Carolina. It started to grow with acquisitions in the Carolinas, “so the Carolinas are the foundation, the core part of the company,” he says. He loves working for the company that he feels “has great core values.”

Brenan also loves Gamecock baseball. When he arrived in Columbia in 1999, he immediately asked his assistant if the bank

With a 360° approach, we are with you at every turn.

Today’s landscape can be both trying and fortuitous. You need the right team with the right experience to help you

had tickets for Gamecock baseball. Brenan got four tickets. “I kind of knew about the tradition of college baseball in the South, and I wanted to experience it,” he says. He soon got to know Coach Ray Tanner and later, Coach Chad Holbrook.

step up to opportunity and conquer challenges. Our high-performance team provides everything from audit and tax solutions to specialized advisory services across the spectrum of industries.

Faith and Family

N

o one can deny that Mike Brenan gives back. Since arriving to South Carolina, he has made his mark in community service. A past chairman of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, Brenan has served on the boards of numerous businesses and nonprofits, including the United Way of the Midlands, Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics Foundation, South Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities Foundation, BIPEC (Business and Industry Political Education Committee), Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce, the South Carolina Bankers Association and Central South Carolina Alliance. BB&T recently provided support to the Ray Tanner Foundation for the future Miracle Field for children that are disabled, designed to allow them to play baseball.

Brenan was appointed by Governor Mark Sanford to serve on the South Carolina State Board of Education, then asked to stay on

by Governor Nikki Haley. “I think Mike is a tremendous asset to South Carolina in his work to make the lives of all South Carolinians better,” says South Carolina State Senator Nikki Setzler of West Columbia. “That is evidenced through his involvement in TransformSC, EngenuitySC, State Board of Education, (and the) First Steps Review Committee. Mike understands that in dealing with issues that affect South Carolina, no one person has the right answer. The best approach comes from working with a group of people with divergent views to come to a best solution.”

Judy Davis, executive vice president and chief legal officer for BlueCross BlueShield South Carolina, who also grew up with Mike’s

Let us guide your business through unpredictable terrain.

Georgia

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North Carolina

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South Carolina

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Virginia

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2014 B u s i n e s s L ead e r o f th e Y ear ~ Mike Brenan ~

going to be a good day. And, Lord, wherever you have me today, my hope and prayer is that I do it to your glory.” He believes God must be integrated in everything that he does: work, family and community. “I’ve been given tons of opportunities to share my faith in a lot of different ways. A lot of that has occurred in South Carolina,” he says.

Mike Brenan does not have a typical day. He does, however, keep his mornings consistent, rising at 5 a.m. or 5:30 a.m. He begins the day with reading or devotion, then either takes a walk outside or on the treadmill. Between his service on many boards throughout the community, his days stay full, but he commits to rarely taking work home with him in the evening, reserving that time for family.

P aving the W ay

D wife, Julie, sums it up.

“Frankly, Mike came here [to South Carolina] and he’s all in. He’s done everything he can to make the state better and the community better, as if he’s been here his entire life. He does it because he loves living here. And he just simply makes it better for all of us.”

A member of Columbia’s First Presbyterian Church, he’s not shy about his faith. “Every day that I wake up, I say two things,” says Brenan. “Lord, if today’s my last day, it is 32 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

uring his tenure as head of the South Carolina Chamber, many things were accomplished, but one priority sticks out. “I think the key thing that came out of that time was finally getting everyone to wake up to the fact that it was time to get serious about infrastructure. I think the State Chamber played a key role in getting that up front with the General Assembly and the governor. Isn’t it interesting today that infrastructure is what all the campaigns are talking about,” he asks.

Long time friend, Lee Bussell, chairman and CEO of Chernoff Newman, says, “Mike does a great job of running a statewide bank, but he still finds time to make a difference by advocating for issues on a regional and statewide

everyone in the state and find ways to work together,” he says. “There’s no reason why we can’t have the best public education system in this country, the best infrastructure and the best higher education.”

Julie, took a trip to Italy, the first European trip for Mike. “I’m pretty much a homebody,” he laughs. On the plane ride back, he and Julie talked about their “bucket lists.” Mike’s list includes learning to play the cello.

“I just take it one day at a time. I can do most things if I do them one day at a time,” he says.

W hat ’ s N e x t basis. While you might see him out front, publicly leading on an issue, he is a powerful force behind the scenes helping to hold elected officials accountable.”

From Brenan’s banking industry standpoint, the largest challenge today is dealing with increased federal regulations that are stifling growth and creativity.

He also believes that it is critical South Carolina has a skilled workforce to fill jobs when the next large economic development announcement comes to the state. “It’s one of the things the State Chamber has been leading on,” he says.

He believes one of South Carolina’s greatest assets is its size. “It’s easy to get to know

Julie Scott is associate vice president of communications at the South Carolina ike Brenan has some advice for young Chamber of Commerce. professionals. “Be able to listen to people who are older, wiser and more Get to Know Mike Brenan: experienced,” he Favorite spot in South Carolina: Home in says. He believes in Columbia the importance of Favorite book: Bible continuous learning Favorite movies: To Kill a Mockingbird and and is an avid reader.

Field of Dreams “When I quit learning, Favorite thing to do on the weekend: its time to hang it up,” Nothing he believes. “At 62, People might be surprised to know that: I’m learning something I love being barefoot. new every day.”

Pet Peeves: Not playing “heads up ball.”

Just last month, Going through life with your head in the sand.

Mike and his wife,

M

If values aren’t shared, they aren’t lived.

For more than 140 years, BB&T has never taken a relationship for granted. We set out to earn your business each and every day. Our strong value system helps us determine what is right and reasonable. And to remain focused on doing what’s in the best interests of the clients and communities we serve. Discover the value a values-driven bank can offer you. Talk to us today. BBT.com

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I N S U R A N C E

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I N V E S T M E N T S

Member FDIC. Only deposit products are FDIC insured. © 2013, Branch Banking and Trust Company. All rights reserved.

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P revious Business Leader of the Year Honorees 1981 – Francis Hipp 1982 – Roger Milliken 1983 – W.W. “Hootie” Johnson 1984 – Buck Mickel 1985 – Walter Montgomery, Sr. 1986 – Charles W. Coker 1987 – John M. Rivers, Sr. 1988 – Ellison S. McKissick, Jr. 1989 – E. Craig Wall, Jr. 1990 – Gayle O. Averyt 1991 – Henderson Barnett 1992 – John A. Warren 1993 – Robert V. Royall, Jr. 1994 – Joel Smith 1995 – Lawrence M. Gressette, Jr. 1996 – Rufus C. Barkley, Jr. 1997 – Robert E. McNair 1998 – James C. Self, Jr. 1999 – Robert Staton 2000 – William Cassells 2001 – William Barnet III 2002 – M. Edward Sellers 2003 – George D. Johnson, Jr. 2004 – Don Herriott 2005 – Darla Moore 2006 – Paula Harper Bethea and William L. Bethea, Jr. 2007 – W. Lee Bussell 2008 – Harris E. DeLoach, Jr. 2009 – Emerson Gower 2010 – Jim Reynolds 2011 – Pamela Lackey 2012 – Josef Kerscher 2013 – Anita Zucker

34 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

twitter.com/grantthorntonus linkd.in/grantthorntonus

Reason says: bigger is better.

youtube.com/grantthorntonus

Instinct says: nimble is better for driving growth.

At Grant Thornton we specialize in helping dynamic organizations like yours, because we are one too. We know how to confront the challenges you face and bring a real, competitive advantage of senior staff time, short decision-making chains and sound processes. To help unlock your potential, visit grantthornton.com/sc100

“Grant Thornton� refers to Grant Thornton LLP, the U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd (GTIL). GTIL and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. Services are delivered by the member firms. GTIL and its member firms are not agents of, and do not obligate, one another and are not liable for one another’s acts or omissions. Please see grantthornton.com for further details.

Grant Thornton llp p r e s e n t s

I n a s s o c i at i o n w i t h t h e S o u t h C a r o l i n a C h a mb e r o f C o mm e r c e , th e 30th An n ual ran k i n g o f th e s tat e ’ s l a r g e st p r i vat e ly o w n e d c o m pa n i e s .

36 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

T

his year marks the 30th edition of the Grant Thornton South Carolina 100TM (“The South Carolina 100”), the only ranking of South Carolina’s largest privately held companies. The South Carolina 100 is compiled by Grant Thornton LLP under the direction of Mark Ballew, partner-in-charge of the Columbia office, in cooperation with the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce.

Participation in the South Carolina 100 is voluntary, and companies are ranked based upon their net revenues for their most recently completed fiscal year. To qualify, companies must be privately held, headquartered in South Carolina and cannot be a subsidiary of another company. Financial institutions, insurance companies, real estate and other brokerages, health care organizations and companies primarily engaged in retail are not eligible for the South Carolina 100 listing.

The people in the independent firms of Grant Thornton International Ltd. provide personalized attention and the highest quality service to public and private clients in more than 100 countries. Grant Thornton LLP is the U.S. Member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd, one of the six global audit, tax and advisory organizations. Grant Thornton has 56 offices in the United States and services dynamic companies in South Carolina, the United States and around the globe.

To learn more about this year’s survey, please contact Mark Ballew, partner-in-charge of Grant Thornton’s Columbia office at (803) 231-3045 or e-mail at mark.ballew@us.gt.com. Grant Thornton’s web site address is GrantThornton.com. For more information on the Grant Thornton South Carolina 100, including prior years’ rankings, go to gt.com/sc100.

The 2014 ranking of the Grant Thornton South Carolina 100 private companies includes many dynamic companies in multiple industries.While each year the ranking experiences some changes, the changes in the listings for 2014 are not as significant as those experienced over the past few years.This is evident from the changes seen below in comparable statistics between the 2014 and 2013 South Carolina 100 ($ amounts in billions).

CATEGORY Manufacturers Distribution All Other TOTAL

2014 # 25 19 56 100

2014 Revenue $8.0 6.2 6.0 $20.2

2014 Employees 33,600 4,900 42,000 80,500

2013 # 22 23 55 100

2013 Revenue $7.6 6.3 5.7 $19.6

2013 Employees 32,900 5,200 45,400 83,500

$ amounts in billions

The top 10 companies 2014 2013 saw very little movement 1 1 as indicated in the 2 2 comparison to the right: 3 3 4 5 5 4 6 8 7 6 8 9 9 95 10 10

COMPANY Milliken & Company The InterTech Group, Inc & Affiliates J.M. Smith Corporation Southeastern Freight Lines, Inc. United Sporting Companies Hilex Poly Co. LLC Carolina Eastern, Inc. Mount Vernon Mills Inc. Dearybury Oil & Gas Inc. Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stevens, P.C.

The most significant movement is the addition of 7 companies joining the ranking for the first time or after an absence.That compares to 12 and 11 companies joining in the 2013 and 2012 rankings respectively: 2014 37 40 62 77 89 95 99

COMPANY Mercom Corporation Harper Corporation-General Contractor Lockart Power Company Pegasus Steel LLC A3 Communications, Inc. Blue Ridge Log Cabins LLC Lexington Drycleaning

The companies with increases in rank over 10 for 2013 are as follows: INCREASE 94 18 12 11 11

COMPANY Dearybury Oil & Gas Inc. Eldeco, Inc. Trehel Corporation Thompson Construction Group, Inc. The Ritedose Corporation

T h e 3 0 t h A n n u a l S o u t h C a r o l i n a 1 0 0 TM N o . C ompany

C ity

CEO

B usiness D escription

MORE THAN $1 BILLION

1 Milliken & Company Spartanburg Joe Salley Manufacturer of chemicals, carpet and textiles 2 The Intertech Group, Inc. and Affiliates North Charleston Anita G. Zucker &

Jonathan M. Zucker

Family-owned holding company

3 J M Smith Corporation Spartanburg William R. Cobb

Wholesale, pharmaceutical and computer hardware, software and data processing services

4

Southeastern Freight Lines, Inc.

Lexington

W.T. Cassels, Jr.

Less-than-truckload carrier company

5

United Sporting Companies

Chapin

Bradley P. Johnson

Distributor of hunting & shooting products

$100 MILLION TO $999 MILLION

6 Hilex Poly Co, LLC Hartsville Stanley B. Bikulege Manufacturer of plastic bag and film products 7

Carolina Eastern Inc.

Charleston

Alton Phillips

Distributor of fertilizer, agricultural chemicals and seeds

8

Mount Vernon Mills, Inc.

Mauldin

W. David Hastings

Distributor of textiles

9

Dearybury Oil & Gas Inc.

Spartanburg

C.W. Dearybury

Wholesale distributor of petroleum products and distillates

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T h e 3 0 t h A n n u a l S o u t h C a r o l i n a 1 0 0 TM N o . C ompany

C ity

CEO

B usiness D escription

10

Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C.

Greenville

Kim F. Ebert

Labor and employment law firm

11

Comporium, Inc.

Rock Hill

Bryant Barnes

Communications company provider

12

Blanchard Machinery Company

West Columbia

Joe Blanchard

Heavy Equipment dealer that specializes in CAT products

13

Edens Investment Trust

Columbia

Terry Brown

Retail SC owner and developer

14

Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP

Columbia

James K. Lehman

Legal services

15 Southeastern Paper Group, Inc. Spartanburg E. Lewis Miller, Jr.

Distribution of disposable paper, plastics and cleaning supplies

16 Medical Services of America, Inc. Lexington Ronnie L. Young

Health care services, rental and sale of home medical equipment and supplies

17 Spartanburg Forest Products, Inc. Greer Steve Michael

Sell, distribute, manufacture, pressure treated lumber and all related products

18 O’Neal, Inc. Greenville Kevin Bean

Engineering and construction company in the business of project delivery

19

M.B. Kahn Construction Co., Inc.

Columbia

William H. Neely

General contractor

20

Cox Industries, Inc.

Orangeburg

R. Michael Johnson

Manufacturer and distributor of treated lumber products

21

Mungo Homes, Inc.

Irmo

Steven Mungo

Residential development and homebuilding

22

Shealy Electrical Wholesalers, Inc.

West Columbia

Bill DeLoache

Wholesaler of electrical supplies

23

Consolidated Systems, Inc.

Columbia

Brad Pemberton

Metal processor

24 Metromont Corporation Greenville Rick Pennell

Builder of precast buildings for schools, offices, stadiums and data centers

25

JHM Enterprises, Inc.

Greenville

HP Rama

Developer, owner and operator of upscale hotels

26

Prestage Farms of SC, LLC

Camden

Dr. Ron Prestage

Distributor of live turkeys sold to Oscar Meyer/Kraft Foods

27 West Oil, Inc. Hartsville Lex West

Convenience store chain, propane business, mini-storage facilities and liquor stores

28 Thompson Construction Group, Inc. Sumter Greg A. Thompson

Industrial and commercial construction/maintenance services

29 WDS, Inc. Lake Wylie Jennifer Maier

Distributor of custom warehousing and inventory management

30 Greystar Real Estate Partners, LLC Charleston Robert A. Faith

Investor, developer and operator of multifamily real estate assets

31

G&P Trucking Co, Inc.

Gaston

G. Clifton Parker

Truckload transportation of freight

32

SCTG, LLC

Columbia

Robert M. Keane

Provider of voice, data and internet services

33 Diamond Hill Plywood Company, Inc. Darlington John C. Ramsey

Wholesale distribution of building materials and manufacturer of hardwood/plywood

34 Cregger Company, Inc. West Columbia Morris Cregger

Distributor of plumbing and heating and cooling products and electrical

35

Pest sales and service

Terminix Service, Inc.

38 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

Columbia

Marion Knox

T h e 3 0 t h A n n u a l S o u t h C a r o l i n a 1 0 0 TM N o . C ompany

C ity

CEO

B usiness D escription

36

Defender Services, Inc.

Columbia

John N. McCarter, Jr.

Provider of janitorial, security and staffing service

37

Mercom Corporation

Pawleys Island

Stella Mercado

Technology advisor

38

Cafe Enterprises, Inc.

Taylors

Christopher R. Thomas Owner of Fatz Cafe and Tavern 24 restaurants

39 Dilmar Oil Company, Inc. Florence

Earle III Atkinson & Gray Atkinson

Petroleum distributor, commercial real estate

40

Greenville

David Wise

Harper Corporation - General Contractors

General contractor

$50 MILLION TO $99 MILLION 41

General Information Services, Inc.

Chapin

Raymond Conrad

Employment screening and HR onboarding solutions

42 Life Cycle Engineering, Inc. N. Charleston Robert Fei

Consulting, engineering, applied technology and education solution

43

Provider of textile based products and logistics services

Springs Creative Products Group LLC Rock Hill

Derick Close

44 The Beach Company Charleston John C.L. Darby

Full service real estate-sales, leasing, development and management

45

Electrical contractor

Eldeco, Inc.

Greenville

Allen McKinney

46 Thompson Industrial Services, LLC Sumter Greg Thompson

Provider of integrated industrial cleaning and facilities support services

47

CoLinx, LLC

Greenville

Donavan A Louis

Logistics and e-commerce services

48

The Ritedose Corporation

Columbia

Umesh Dalvi

Contract pharmaceutical manufacturer

49

HG Reynolds Co, Inc.

Aiken

Jeffrey Reynolds

General contracting

50

Human Technologies, Inc.

Greenville

Herb Dew III

Human resource advisory firm

51

The Yahnis Company

Florence

Ken Emry

Wholesale distributor of beer and non-alcoholic beverages

52

Industrial Packaging Supplies, Inc.

Fountain Inn

Jerry Murdock

Wholesale distribution of packaging materials

53

First Sun Management Corporation

Clemson

Joseph J. Turner, Jr.

Quick serve restaurant

54 Merritt Veterinary Supplies, Inc. Columbia Robert M. Mims, Jr.

Distributor of supplies, equipment, and drugs for the veterinary industry

55

Whaley Foodservice Repairs, Inc.

Lexington

Wells Whaley

Commercial foodservice parts distributor

56

Beverage & Food Group, Inc.

Bluffton

Kevin Meany

Creative communications agency

57

Palmetto Synthetics

Kingstree

Henry Poston

Producer of synthetic fibers

58

Gateway Supply Company, Inc.

Columbia

Sam Williams Jr.

Plumbing and HVAC wholesaler

59

Palmetto Corp. of Conway

Conway

Shawn Godwin

General contractor

60

Encore Technology Group, LLC

Greenville

Todd Newnam

Provider of comprehensive solutions for IT networks

61

Yeargin Potter Schackelford.

Construction, Inc

Greenville

R. Lynn Yeargin

General contractor

LESS THAN $50 MILLION 62 Lockhart Power Company Lockhart Bryan Stone

Utility provider of electrical power to customers in five SC counties

63

Electrical and mechanical construction

Gregory Electric Company, Inc.

Columbia

Robert Livingston

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T h e 3 0 t h A n n u a l S o u t h C a r o l i n a 1 0 0 TM N o . C ompany

C ity

CEO

B usiness D escription

LESS THAN $50 MILLION 64

McNair Law Firm, P.A.

Columbia

David J. Tigges

Provider of legal services

65 AME, Inc. Fort Mill Gregg S. Campbell

Industrial contracting – crane rental, equipment installation and fabrication

66

General contractor

Trehel Corporation

Clemson

William W. Huss

67 Sumter Transport Company Sumter Robert Rumph

Provider of environmental solutions to refinery and chemical industries

68

Manufacture/distribution of brass plumbing products

Wolverine Brass, Inc.

Conway

Joe Kastelic

69 GBS Building Supply, Inc. Greenville Robert J. Barreto

Supplier of residential and commercial building products in upstate North Carolina and South Carolina

70

Meat and poultry processing and distribution

Greenville Meats, Inc.

Greenville

Dan Sloan

71 Southern Weaving Company Greenville Ron Mohling

Design, development and manufacturing of industrial woven products

72

Interstate Management & Investment Corporation

Bert Pooser

Hotel management

73

Commercial FoodService Repair, Inc. Greenville

Kurt Herwald

National service provider to hospitality, retail and restaurants.

74

Dillon Provision Co, Inc.

Dillon

Dan Bozard

Wholesale meat

75

H.R. Allen, Inc.

Charleston

Rod Allen

Electrical and mechanical contractor

76

Waldrop, Inc.

Spartanburg

William Caldwell

Mechanical contractor

77

Pegasus Steel LLC

Goose Creek

Tony Deering

Heavy steel fabrication service center

78

Dove Data Products, Inc.

Florence

Richard Coxe

Manufacturing and sales of computer printing supplies

Columbia

79 Sumter Packaging Corporation Sumter Benjamin DeSollar

Provider of full service transportation, warehousing and packaging

80

New South Construction Supply, LLC Greenville

Jim Sobeck

Construction products distributor

81

Augusta Fiberglass Coatings Inc.

Blackville

John W. Boyd

Manufacturer of fiberglass reinforced plastics

82

Eagle Construction Company

Newberry

Jeff D. Spotts

Provider of heavy highway construction

83 Ishpi Information Technologies, Inc. Mount Pleasant Noah Leask

Provider of information and cyber dominance, C5ISR engineering and technical Services

84 GMK Associates, Inc. Columbia Thomas P. Monahan

Architecture, engineering, design-build, construction services and interior design

85 Colite International, Ltd. Columbia Martin C Brown

Provider of technical development, manufacturing, and signage programs

86

Companion Professional Services, LLC Columbia

Terry M. Floyd

Information technology consulting and IT solutions group

87

Parkplace Corp.

Jimmy Orders

Mattresses

Greenville

88 FGP International, Inc. Greenville John Uprichard

Temporary staffing for IT, accounting and administrative services

89

Systems integrator, provider of IT and security solutions

A3 Communications, Inc.

40 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

Irmo

Joe Thomas

T h e 3 0 t h A n n u a l S o u t h C a r o l i n a 1 0 0 TM N o . C ompany

C ity

CEO

B usiness D escription

90 J.L. Anderson Co, Inc. Wallace Robert S. Rogers III

Manufacturer of brick, wholesale and retail sale of brick and masonry products

91 VC3, Inc. Columbia David Dunn

IT service provider to the private and public sectors in South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia

92

Residential and commercial sales

Chicora Affiliates, LLC

Myrtle Beach

Don J. Smith

93 Carolina Ceramics, LLC Columbia Michael Borden

Brick manufacturing and distributor of brick, mortar and other masonry products

94

Martin Engineering, Inc.

White Rock

Whitney Delbridge

General contractor

95

Blue Ridge Log Cabins LLC

Campobello

Chip Smith

Modular home manufacturer

96 Alliance Consulting Engineers, Inc. Columbia Deepal S. Eliatamby, P.E. Civil engineering firm and provider of technical consulting

services 97

Chernoff Newman, LLC

Columbia

W. Lee Bussell, Jr.

Integrated marketing communications

98

C. Ray Miles Construction Co., Inc.

Lugoff

C. Ray Miles

General contractor

99

Lexington Drycleaning

Lexington

Thomas Garrett

Provider of dry cleaning and laundry services

Rock Hill

Patrick Hogrefe

Manufacturer of modular axial impellers

100 WingFan LP

We’re glad you’re here, Showa Denko.

Before a recent planned expansion. Before the first graphite electrode was manufactured. Before the plant manager flipped on the lights for the first time. Santee Cooper partnered with Showa Denko Carbon Inc. 30 years ago to bring the international industrial giant to the Charleston area.

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2014 P ublic S ervant of the Y ear James I. Newsome, III Pre s i d e n t a n d C h i e f E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r S o u t h C a r o l i n a Po r t s Au t h o r i t y

DeepandWide B y P enny D elaney C othran , APR

n the same day South Carolina Business visited the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Public Servant of the Year, Jim Newsome’s company, the South Carolina Ports Authority, was making a huge announcement. Newsome was very pleased to announce that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had just released the long anticipated, four-year Draft Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Impact Statement for the Post-45 Harbor Deepening project. It recommended that the Charleston Harbor be deepened to 52 feet, making it the deepest port on the East Coast. Currently, the port is the ninth largest port (behind Tacoma, Washington), and the fourth largest on the East Coast. Simply speaking, the growth of the South Carolina’s commerce, and especially its manufacturing sector, has necessitated a deeper harbor and a stronger port system. Jim Newsome has answered the industry’s call, and then some. He has doubled the port’s growth (tracking 8-9 percent growth while the rest of the U.S has seen approximately 4 percent growth), ensuring South Carolina’s export dominance well into the future. “We have ten more years of really hard work left,” says the tireless president and CEO, with a calm certitude.

Who is Jim Newsome?

“I

am not a politician,” Newsome says quickly of his nomination.

He describes himself as a contrarian, always quick to challenge current thinking with a glimpse of what it means for the future.

P o r t r a i t b y S and y A nd r e w s

“I’m always looking to do something a bit different than what everyone else is doing.” Both a metaphorical sprinter and a marathon runner, “I am always trying to see a little farther ahead on the horizon,” he explained.

“The first movers in business get the advantage.” And so the race to the top began for South Carolina.

A self-described information junkie, he says he would much rather read an e-mail from a colleague than meet face to face. “That bothers people,” he adds in a moment of selfrecognition. He’s always scanning the trends to see where things are going. “I like to stay ahead of the pack and anticipate trends faster.” He can do this easier with the written word, he explains.

The South Carolina Ports Authority is a major strategic asset for the state. Port leaders call the 52 feet a game changer s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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2014 P ublic S ervant of the Y ear James I. Newsome, III for South Carolina. Newsome prides himself on running the port as a business, and not as a typical public trust. He craftily refocuses each question about himself onto the port, but not in a bashful way. It’s strategic. “We [at the port] have told a clear, consistent story.” The opposite of aloof or absent, the regimented and reliable Newsome does not shy away from mentioning that he has been married to his wife Kathy for 30 years or that he’s proud of his daughter Rachel, 28, and son Matthew, 23. “They’re good kids. My wife did a good job raising them.”

The Early Life of the Protégé

“I

was pointed in the direction of a shipping career at a fairly young age,” explains Newsome. “I was born in Savannah, Georgia. I still actually own the home I was born into. I liked all sports: football, baseball and basketball. I was interested in being a good student.”

A proud University of Tennessee/Knoxville graduate, Jim Newsome, who skipped a grade in elementary school, graduated with a MBA at the age of 21. He said his father (and his father’s friend Don Welch, a previous SCSPA president and UT alumnus) boasted that they conspired to get him into Tennessee’s transportation program. “He also said that he helped me get into the University of Tennessee. That was not true,” laughs Newsome.

“I was really interested in the shipping industry. My father was with the Georgia Ports Authority in Savannah. I used to go to work with him on Saturdays - every Saturday, in fact. It piqued my curiosity about shipping, ports and things of that nature. That was what we did. That

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was the time we spent together. My dad didn’t have a lot of hobbies. He worked all the time. So the time we spent together was [spent] going around on Saturdays running errands [and] going to work with him. I would help him with his work. We’d go get a hamburger afterwards at the Crystal Beer Parlor and watch a football game or something,” reminisces Newsome. “He took me when he went on some business trips, even as a young man.”

“I watched him pretty intently. He was a hard worker,” continues Newsome. “He was an honest guy and very focused on relationships with people. He was fair with people, but he was tough. He didn’t play any favorites. [A] real simple guy. Not a high flyer. Down to earth. Conservative in terms of finance. Never really took on a lot of debt. Very reliable.”

History tends to repeat itself with this father’s namesake.

“My mother was a worker,” adds Newsome, who was an only child.

“In fact she worked full time until she was 82 years old. She worked 50 years for one company called Chatham Steel in Savannah. She was a fast-paced Bostonian lady [combined with] slow paced Savannah. I grew up in what you’d call a real working family. I was pretty much a latchkey kid. Between the two [parents], they fostered in me a true since of independence. I’ve always been pretty independent, which is different from the kids today.”

A summer college job at Strachan Shipping Company in Savannah

Get to Know Jim Newsome crystalized his interest in a shipping career. After college, he had a job offer from Procter & Gamble in Cincinnati, Ohio and surprised the recruiter when he said he was going to work for Strachan in Houston, Texas. Again, it was his father’s guiding hand that pointed him toward Texas. After Houston, where he met his wife, he went to the shipping capital of the world: New York City. “It was the best thing that I ever did. The shipping industry is all about contacts and relationships. And that was a place where I could build a lot of relationships,” says Newsome.

“After my Strachan Shipping time, I was an American working for two major European shipping companies.

It was critical that I have a mentor from the home country. So I had a Dutch mentor. I had a few German mentors.” After New York, the family eventually landed in Atlanta, Georgia which was their home for 22 years.

emphasized speed above all other measures. “I measure by the watch, not the calendar.” That isn’t always easy in a public bureaucracy.

When asked about his chief competition, he was careful not to bash the Savannah Port.

He sees them as allies in the South Atlantic brand. Perhaps it’s his father’s guiding hand once again. “I’ve seen it all in this industry. It’s a small industry,” he concludes.

Penny Delaney Cothran is the multimedia manager at the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and editor of South Carolina Business.

What’s your favorite place in SC? Hilton Head Island, because it’s close to Savannah and we’ve always vacationed there as a family What was the happiest day of your life? My wedding day What’s your favorite book? Speed, Simplicity, SelfConfidence: An Interview with Jack Welch (of General Electric and, more recently, 30 Rock fame) Favorite App? Delta. I fly a lot.

Thing you can’t live without… Coffee! I’m a caffeinated person In your spare time, you can be found… exercising a lot.

And walking my chocolate lab, Sadie If you could have a dinner party with anyone, living or deceased, who would it be? Warren Buffet, because he’s a clear thinker and expresses his business principles.

He believes in buying a business that works and keeping its management in place What’s your proudest achievement, personal or professional? My children, and the people they’ve developed into

Keep unemployment taxes low for you and all South Carolina business owners.

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The Victories Go to the Bold

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“T

he best part is that the port works extremely well,” says Newsome.

“The port’s not a difficult business.

What do we do? We load ships and we load trucks.” This hardworking chief who’s directly responsible for 500 people’s careers (and even more jobs indirectly in his extended maritime family of those who make a living off the port),

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s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss | 45 12/27/2013 10:21:10 AM

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PUBLISHING & MEDIA SERVICES

Previous

Public Servant of the Year Honorees 1981 — Speaker of the House Ramon Schwartz 1982 — Senator Rembert Dennis 1983 — Senator James Waddell 1984 — Senator John Drummond 1985 — Representative Lloyd Hendricks 1986 — Grady L. Patterson Jr. 1987 — Speaker of the House Robert J. Sheheen 1988 — Representative David W. Wilkins 1989 — Senator J. Verne Smith 1990 — Representative Robert N. McLellan 1991 — Representative David Beasley 1992 — Representative William D. Boan 1993 — Governor Carroll A. Campbell Jr. 1994 — Representative James Hodges 1995 — Howell Clyborne Jr. 1996 — Representative Henry Brown Jr. 1997 — Senator Thomas L. Moore 1998 — Representative Bobby Harrell 1999 — Senator Nikki Setzler 2000 — Chief Justice Ernest Finney 2001 — Senator Hugh K. Leatherman 2002 — Senator Larry A. Martin 2003 — Dr. Luther F. Carter 2004 — Representative Harry F. Cato 2005 — Senator Jim Ritchie Jr. 2006 — Senator Wes Hayes 2007 — Senator Harvey S. Peeler Jr. 2008 — Senator William H. “Billy” O’Dell 2009 — Dr. Barry Russell 2010 — Senator Greg Ryberg 2011 — House Majority Leader Kenny Bingham 2012 — Senate President Pro Tempore John Courson 2013 — U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham

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2014 S ergeant W illiam J asper F reedom A ward Posthumously awarded to

Ike McLeese

The Man Who Loved the Military B y P enny D elaney C othran , APR

ust over a year since his death on October 29, 2013, Ike McLeese, the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce’s former president and CEO for nearly 20 years, is still warmly remembered by his friends, family and colleagues.

The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce’s Sgt. William Jasper Freedom Award has never been awarded posthumously until now. McLeese left a legacy that reverberates in both the civilian and military worlds. According to The State, McLeese considered the outcome of the 2005 round of military base realignment and closure (BRAC) his greatest professional accomplishment.

“That year [2005], Fort Jackson received three new missions: the Army’s Drill Sergeant’s School; expansion of the Army Chaplain School to include all service branches; and the relocation of the Army’s 81st Regional Support Command, which oversees Army Reserve units in 15 states and Puerto Rico. Also, McEntire Joint National Guard Base, which at the time was considered vulnerable to being absorbed by nearby Shaw Air Force Base, survived.

Former Mayor Bob Coble said the BRAC outcome ‘was his finest hour and his legacy. It was the greatest economicdevelopment announcement in the region’s history.’

Fort Jackson’s commander, Brig. Gen Bradley Becker, said that before he arrived in August, he was told by many that s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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2014 S ergeant W illiam J asper F reedom A ward Ike McLeese

Columbia was the most military-friendly community in the nation – due in large part to McLeese’s work.”

McLeese was an extremely proud defender of the men and women of the military. McLeese was first appointed a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army in February of 2007, and was serving his fourth term when he passed. As civilian aide, he served as the Secretary’s personal representative throughout South Carolina at protocol events and memorial services and as a liaison between the Army and the civilian population. McLeese made it a particular point of pride to be plane-side to welcome home any fallen warrior. He strived tirelessly to make Columbia, and South Carolina, the most military friendly community and state in the nation. His friends and colleagues remember him fondly.

Mike Brenan President of BB&T South Carolina ne of the things we always got a kick out of was when we were out in the public doing things, we’d always kid that we were the Ike & Mike show. I think the thing we worked on the most was transportation issues and infrastructure issues in the city and Richland County, particularly around the public transportation system. He and I did a lot of things behind the scenes to keep that moving in the right direction. We helped put together the group that got the penny tax passed. Ike had a real passion for the military and for what the Chamber ought to be doing from a public policy standpoint.

The other thing Ike and I had [in common] was he loved

O

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baseball. Ike had traveled to lots of different ball parks in his time.

Lee Bussell Chairman and CEO of Chernoff Newman ke and I were friends and worked together at Newman Saylor and Gregory before he became CEO of the Chamber. Ike led the Chamber through some of its toughest financial times, but with his leadership he was able to sell their building and then lease back the space they needed. Ike put the “backbone” in the Columbia Chamber and business community by tackling tough community issues like public transportation and infrastructure. The Bull Street project would not have happened without Ike’s behind-the-scenes maneuvering. Ten years ago the Columbia Chamber had a favorable rating of under 20 percent, and with Ike’s leadership, it surpassed 60 percent when he made the announcement he was stepping down as CEO. He will be missed by all, but no group will miss him more than our military community.

He was a tireless advocate for our local bases and became a passionate voice for military families. Shortly after becoming chair of the Columbia Chamber, Ike and I were at lunch when he observed

I

four soldiers in uniform. He stopped the waitress and asked her to bring him their check. That was his way of thanking them for the critical sacrifices they make every day.

As serious as he was, he also had a great sense of humor. Hundreds of thousands have viewed the You Tube video where Ike along with people like Mike Brenan, John Lumpkin, Boyd Jones and I kicked off the annual Gala with a parody of our singing and dancing to the popular song, “Call Me Maybe.” I still laugh when I see it.

Ike will be missed by all, but his spirit still guides us.

Holt Chetwood Midlands Market President of Wells Fargo ke McLeese was a great man. He was a great leader for the Columbia Chamber and the Midlands business community.

Ike had the courage and backbone to tackle big and important issues for our region. The soldiers at Fort Jackson had no bigger fan and supporter than Ike McLeese. The Columbia Chamber is the voice of business in the Midlands because Ike made it that way.

I

The South Carolina Chamber works closely with local chambers across the state. One of the closest relationships was with Ike McLeese. He was well loved by many people, with his over the top, bombastic laugh, his warm handshake and his welcoming demeanor, Ike fought hard for the things he believed would make South Carolina’s Capital City better for business. That included the Hughes development of the Bull Street property, the deterrence of cuts to major military installations, or by simply cheering for the Capital City Bombers or the Gamecocks at a baseball game.

Penny Delaney Cothran is the multimedia manager at the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and editor of South Carolina Business.

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AFTER THE EVENT

WDS_SC Chamber Ad_Print.pdf

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4/15/14

5:50 PM

2014 Best Places to Work in S.C.

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he South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, Best Companies Group and SCBIZ announced the rankings of the 2014 Best Places to Work in South Carolina at an awards banquet, presented by Colonial Life, at the Doubletree by Hilton in Columbia. Best Places to Work is dedicated to identifying and recognizing the state’s most innovative and top-notch employers. Congratulations to all 50 winners! Here are the top honorees in both categories.

SOURCING

Hire Dynamics First Place in the Small/Medium Employer Category (15-249 U.S. employees)

LOGISTICS

C

M

BUSINESS ANALYTICS

Y

CM

MY

CY

AUTOMATION ENGINEERING

CMY

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The distinction that comes with being named a 2014 Best Place to Work in South Carolina is held in high regard at Hire Dynamics. This is our second year participating and being recognized, but it’s quite an accomplishment to land top honors among a pool of such terrific peer companies. And while this award is specifically about our team here, the meaning behind it is felt by all our employees located throughout the Southeast.

Having a company culture that is employee-centric is a critical piece of our business model. We can’t expect that our clients and talent will be served to the best of our ability if we don’t first have full alignment within our own house. We’re thrilled by the honor of a Best Place to Work designation. It is a tribute to the work our employees do, day in and day out, and the belief that What We Do Matters.

– Dan Campbell, CEO of Hire Dynamics Edward Jones First Place in the Large Employer Category (250 or more U.S. employees)

SOLUTIONS

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www.womends.com 52 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

Edward Jones values the people who make excellent client service possible. Located in two-person offices, our branch teams work directly with clients to understand their personal goals and offer solutions.

“This is the hardest job I’ve ever had but by far the most rewarding,” Brian Mathis in Fort Mill says. “Edward Jones gives me the tools and resources to succeed and the flexibility to create my own work schedule and hours.

I’m encouraged to put family first.”

The Edward Jones culture is caring, supportive and values each individual associate. North Charleston Financial Advisor Katherine Ponder, for example, started her career as a financial advisor in Texas, while her husband was stationed in Georgia. They lived apart for two years, traveling back and forth. Her flexible schedule made this possible. When the Navy insisted he move to Charleston, Katherine had to make the tough decision to relocate her business. Local associates welcomed Katherine’s family and supported her throughout the transition. Today, she is a full-time wife, mother and financial advisor. She can adjust her schedule to meet the needs of her family, while building and growing her business.

Best Places to Work in South Carolina 2014 Sponsors Presenting Colonial Life Platinum Spirit Communications Gold Benefitfocus Blackbaud Continental Tire the Americas, LLC Edward Jones Nexsen Pruet Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. SC Telco Federal Credit Union Scott and Company LLC Select Health of South Carolina SCE&G SYNNEX Corporation T-Mobile USA Turner Agency Insurance/ Frankenmuth Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, LLP Silver BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina C.F. Evans Construction Charleston Water System Human Technologies, Inc. Life Cycle Engineering McAngus Goudelock and Courie NBSC, a division of Synovus Bank SCRA Shealy Electrical Wholesalers, Inc. Thomas & Hutton VC3 Bronze Broadsoft Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP Electric Guard Dog, LLC Hire Dynamics MWV Specialty Chemicals

Elliott Davis Second Place in the Small/ Medium Employer Category (50-249 U.S. employees) We are pleased to have received such positive feedback and are honored to be recognized with this prestigious award for the eighth consecutive year. Being a workplace of choice is important to us, and we take great care to provide benefits and programs that provide our employees with rewarding opportunities and long term career fulfillment. Elliott Davis employs over 300 talented people in four offices across the state, and their participation in this award is a measure of our success in determining what is important to them. Our employees are a strategic advantage, and investing in them allows us to continue to grow and deliver efficient and effective solutions to our clients.  – Rick Davis, Managing Shareholder of Elliott Davis

STEM community

education preparation

innovation

research

entrepreneurship

engineering

creativity friendships

fun results

HARTSVILLE SC www.scgssm.org

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Palmetto Vision Awards Gala honors special leaders B y H annah C ook

T

he South Carolina Chamber of Commerce hosted the inaugural Palmetto Vision Awards Gala, presented by Jackson Lewis P.C., on September 18 at the Columbia Marriott.

The Chamber recognized superior companies that excelled in the fields of manufacturing and diversity and honored South Carolina’s top human resources and community diversity professionals during the awards gala. From hitting the red carpet, bidding on silent auction items that benefited South Carolina Business Week, to the awards dinner with elegant entertainment by the String Angels, a great night was had by all in attendance.

Top awards presented were the South Carolina Excellence in Community Service, won by JoAnn Turnquist, Central Carolina Community Foundation, and the Excellence in Workplace Diversity Award, won by Greenville Chamber of Commerce (small business category) and US Engine Valve (medium/ large business category), all sponsored by Nexsen Pruet. The South Carolina Manufacturer of the Year was awarded to BMW Manufacturing Company (large business category), MTU America, Inc. (small/ medium business category), and the Manufacturer Partner of the Year, won by South Carolina Technical College System, was sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. Lastly, South Carolina Human Resources Professional of the Year was awarded to Ralph Young, FN Manufacturing, LLC and was sponsored by Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. Congratulations to all the winners and honorees and thank you to all who joined us on this special night to celebrate business leaders who make South Carolina a great state. We look forward to honoring many more great companies and business leaders of South Carolina in the upcoming years.

Otis Rawl, president and CEO of South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, with Bruce and Lady June Cole from Allen University enjoying the reception and silent auction before the awards dinner.

Jim Deyling, president of private business, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, addresses the audience before presenting the Manufacturer of the Year awards.

BMW Manufacturing Company received the award for Manufacturer of the Year (large company category).

Judi Gatson, WIS-TV news anchor, emcees the Palmetto Vision Awards Gala.

JoAnn Turnquist addressed the audience after winning the Excellence in Community Service Award.

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The String Angels provided elegant and exciting entertainment for the awards dinner.

L U X U R Y A N D T R A N Q U I L I T Y AW A I T YO U I N T H E H E A R T O F C O L U M B I A

Eight South Carolina companies were recognized as the Excellence in Workplace Diversity honorees.

Palmetto Vision Awards Gala Sponsors Presenting Jackson Lewis P.C. Platinum Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. Nexsen Pruet BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Silver MAU Workforce Solutions Santee Cooper SCE&G Bronze Cox Industries, Inc. Southeastern Freight Lines Sonoco Fisher & Phillips LLP Duke Energy Colonial Life Honoree Starbucks Coffee Company - Sandy Run Roasting Plant Phillips Staffing FN AMERICA – Columbia BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC Contributor Verizon Wireless Spartanburg Community College Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC Columbia Metropolitan Airport Coastal Hydraulics, Inc. AT&T

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AFTER THE EVENT

Inaugural LeadSC Young Professionals Summit B y H annah C ook

T

he inaugural LeadSC YP Summit, presented by Walmart, was held on September 17-18 at the Columbia Marriott and united young professionals with top leadership throughout South Carolina in a dynamic, open environment that encouraged personal, professional and community development. This event, planned by the LeadSC statewide committee in partnership with the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, provided opportunities for networking and professional development to emerging professionals from across the state. With professional development as the theme

Lou Kennedy, president and CEO of Nephron Pharmaceuticals, sends the attendees out with an encouraging word as the closing keynote speaker.

Karl Hudson Phillips speaks during the breakout session South Carolina: Should I Stay or Should I Go.

LeadSC YP Summit statewide planning committee.

Councilwoman Octavia Williams-Blake, City of Florence and Senator Shane Massey, South Carolina Senate, participate in the panel discussion How to Influence the Political Process in Your Community.

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of this year’s summit, South Carolina young professionals built relationships across multiple levels all while attending enriching and relevant seminars and breakout sessions such as personal branding, how to influence the political process in your community, leadership development, legal, diversity and entrepreneurial tracks, as well as a popular CEO luncheon. In 2015, the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce looks forward to partnering with LeadSC again and continuing the vision to encourage communication, motivation and foster meaningful relationships in young professionals for a better South Carolina.

Attendees were excited to network during the Wednesday night reception that started the LeadSC YP Summit.

Matt Porth of MCEC networks with Libby Anne Inabinet, president, Providence Hospital Development Foundation, during the CEO roundtable luncheon.

LeadSC Young Professionals Summit Sponsors Presenting Walmart Platinum Elliott Davis Sun Solutions USC Moore School of Business Gold BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina NBSC, a divison of Synovus bank SCE&G Sonoco Silver AlliedBarton Security Services Barnes, Alford, Stork & Johnson, LLP BB&T Integrity Real Estate Advisiors Municipal Association of South Carolina Bronze First Citizens Bank Greater Summerville/Dorchester Chamber Wills Massalon & Allen LLC

Jacob Cook, Sun Solutions and LeadSC co-chair, spoke about the importance of zero based thinking.

Madeleine McGee, Mac Bennett and Charlotte Berry advised young pros on joining non-profit boards.

s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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Providing Businesses More Choices

B y B arbara B eckham

I

s your company taking advantage of the There are four levels of Palmetto Stars, starting all new Palmetto Advantage program? at $5,000 (see page 64). These companies Do you know all of the incredible benefits receive added benefits such as an invitation this new structure provides along with greater to an exclusive program or event. For the past value for your company? two years, this invitation-only event was held at Since announcing the new Palmetto the Governor’s Mansion with South Carolina Advantage program in April 2014, the South Governor Nikki Haley hosting.

Carolina Chamber of Commerce has been Each level of Palmetto Stars offers busy implementing the operational changes, increased benefits too (i.e. at the Crown level, creating specialized reports to track member companies can book the Chamber’s public involvement and working to inform members meeting rooms at no charge). With meeting of their new benefits that can expand space at prime rental cost in downtown their reach. The key ingredient of this new Columbia and the Chamber’s proximity to program, the membership investment level, is the State House, this option has been used by At the Cornerstone level, the Palmetto Advantage benefits increase determined by a company’s cumulative total many members for planning retreats, special with an opportunity to place company information in the Chamber’s of membership, sponsorship and advertising brochure rack located in our busy lobby area. staff trainings or corporate meetings with outdollars invested in the South Carolina Chamber. of-state staff.

We want to ensure all Chamber members At the Cornerstone level, the benefits are taking full advantage of all of the features Palmetto Advantage offers. increase with an opportunity to place company information in the Chamber’s brochure rack located in our busy lobby area. This is a great way to expand your company’s W hat level is your b usiness ? reach to the multitudes of business people who pass through the Chamber each week. And, if you should choose to enjoy something akin to concierge service, your Are you an Advocate? The Advocate level is essentially the small business company can be assigned a personal account representative to help you get the most level. Advocates have the opportunity to participate on the Chamber’s Small out of your Chamber experience.

Business Council as well as list a coupon or discount offer in the Chamber’s The final two Palmetto Stars levels are the President’s Circle and the Chairman’s online directory. Companies across the globe seek information on South Carolina Circle. These levels represent the Chamber’s key advocacy players, and benefits are businesses via the Web. What better place to push your offer on a product or service extremely personalized and customized. President’s Circle members receive corporate than on Palmetto Marketplace? signage in the Chamber’s BB&T Boardroom as well as an opportunity to have a Or maybe you’re a Pacesetter. This is where some of the key benefits include promotional video looped on the Chamber’s enormous TV monitor in the lobby area. an opportunity to become involved on any Chamber committee. Plus, Pacesetters The ultimate Chairman’s Circle level offers its companies an opportunity to receive special invitations several times a year to regional CEO Roundtable meetings schedule an on-site issues meeting for their management team with Chamber with fellow business leaders. experts and a seat on the LATF (Legislative Agenda Task Force), the most popular Next comes the Signature level. As a Signature member, extra benefits exist issues-vetting committee. such as business promotion on the Chamber’s social media channels and the ability to sponsor a committee’s lunch. This highly-sought-after option gives businesses a So… do you know your company’s level? The Chamber’s membership unique opportunity to market their products or services to a select group of their team will be glad to discuss your needs and help you find the Palmetto Advantage choosing. Popular committees include Local Chambers, Manufacturers Steering, PR level that best fits your situation.

Advisory, Small Business and Excellence in Education.

Palmetto Stars round out the top. Those companies that choose to support Barbara Beckham is the vice president of member relations at the South Carolina the Chamber in exceptional ways are deemed Palmetto Stars. Each year, the Chamber Chamber of Commerce. She may be reached at 803-255-2620 publishes a listing of those Power Players in a special pullout supplement in South or barbara.beckham@scchamber.net.

Carolina Business magazine to acknowledge them for their unparalleled support.

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Welcome, New Members Atlantic Business Continuity Services Summerville Commercial Foodservice Repair Greenville Consultants in Gastroenterology, PA West Columbia Custom Recycling LLC Indian Trail, NC Denny’s, Inc. Spartanburg Gentiva Health Services Blythewood HCA South Atlantic Division Charleston Levitt Healthcare Affiliates Beaufort

Novant Health Gaffney Medical Center Gaffney Palmetto Infusion Services Pawleys Island Palmetto Utility Protection Services (PUPS) Columbia Pandoodle Columbia PHC Home Health Charleston Piedmont Medical Center Rock Hill

Palmetto Market Place.pdf 1 10/13/2014 11:36:36 AM

Publix Super Markets, Inc. Lakeland, FL Seamac Shipping, Inc. Charleston

Liberty Home & Hospice, LLC Wilmington, NC

Shell Harrisburg, PA

M & C Group, LLC Bluffton

Swanson’s Deli Columbia

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Nova Lighting West Columbia

Vistelan Healthcare LLC Summerville

BETTER DEALS ON THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES YOUR BUSINESS ALREADY USES • Member-to-member benefit program

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• Matching members with exceptional offers • Offers vetted to exceed any pricing or services you can find off the street

www.palmettomarketplace.net s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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Our Vision The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce is the unified voice of business and premier advocacy organization in the state. The South Carolina Chamber creates prosperity for all citizens through an economy of increased productivity and global competitiveness.

Our Mission The mission of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, as the single, unified voice of business, is to enhance the quality of life for all South Carolinians. The South Carolina Chamber leads the way in achieving global competitiveness and ultimately increasing prosperity for our citizens by:

• Creating a shared, collaborative vision for South Carolina;

• Increasing productivity through an educated and highly-skilled, capable workforce;

• Advocating a balanced, predictable tax and spending system;

• Fostering a favorable climate among our members and their diverse employees; and,

• Promoting the positive impact of a successful business community on our citizens.

S outh C arolina C hamber of C ommerce L eadership Board of Directors 2014-2015 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE C hairman

Sam Konduros Executive Director Greenville Health System’s Research Development Corporation

C hair -E lect

John McAlister Director of Governmental Relations Electrolux North America

Mikee Johnson President and CEO Cox Industries John Uprichard President and CEO FGP International

P ast C hair

Pamela Lackey President AT&T South Carolina

T reasurer

Chris Barras Executive Director Ernst & Young LLP

G eneral C ounsel

Barbara Melvin Senior Vice President, External Affairs SC Ports Authority Pat Michaels President/CEO Goodwill Industries of Upstate/Midlands Steve Nail Vice President of Human Resources Hubbell Lighting, Inc.

Charles “Ted” Speth II, Esq. Managing Shareholder Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak and Stewart, P.C.,

Al Reid Plant Manager PPG Industries, SC

Cliff Bourke Manager for Legal Claims Southeastern Freight Lines, Inc,

Mike Zeller Vice President of Brand Marketing, Jackson Marketing Group, Inc.

Sara Fisher Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer NBSC, a division of Synovus Bank

60 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tim Arnold President Colonial Life Mike Brenan (Ex-Officio) President BB&T South Carolina Sharon Bryant South Carolina Banking Executive and Director of Wealth Management First Citizens Bank Mark Crocker Partner Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP CPAs Rick Davis Managing Shareholder Elliott Davis, LLC Jami DeBrango-Palumbo President & Site Head Roche Carolina Tom DeLoach President and CEO SC BIPEC Fred Dohse Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Savannah River Nuclear Solutions David Dubberly Attorney Nexsen Pruet

S outh C arolina C hamber of C ommerce L eadership Mark Elam Director State & Local Government Relations The Boeing Company

Rex Query Vice President and General Manager Nucor Steel South Carolina

David Summer, Jr. Partner Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein, LLP

Deepal Eliatamby President Alliance Consulting Engineers, Inc.

Mickey Renner Senior Vice President and Business Banking Executive Wells Fargo

David Tigges Managing Shareholder McNair Law Firm, P.A.

Dr. Thomas Elzey President South Carolina State University

Ben Rex CEO Cyberwoven, LLC

Clark Gillespy SC President Duke Energy

Andy Satterfield Partner Jackson Lewis LLP

Ben Green Partner Insurance Advantage, LLC

Barry Saunders Chief Financial Officer and Vice President Sonoco

Greg Guerra Executive Vice President Product Management and Business Development Spirit Communications

Kenneth Seeger President MWV Community Development and Land Management MeadWestvaco

Randy Hatcher President Management Analysis & Utilization, Inc. Robby Hill President /CEO HillSouth IT Solutions Kenny Jackson Sr. Vice President Services/Rates & Regulatory Affairs SCANA

Pete Selleck Chairman and President Michelin North America Linda Stanley Senior Vice President Bank of America

Gary Williams Vice President of Human Resources Mount Vernon Mills, Inc. Dr. James C. Williamson President S.C. Technical College System George Wolfe Partner Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP Keith Wood Director of Public Affairs URS John M. Worley, Jr. CEO Zeus Industrial Products Inc. Brent Yarborough President TeamIA, Inc.

Hal Stevenson Owner Grace Outdoor

Gene King Managing Director Sequence Holdings Richard Kizer Vice President Government and Community Relations Santee Cooper Dan Lebish Executive Vice President & COO Aflac Group Insurance Randy Lowell Shareholder Willoughby & Hoefer, P.A. Jodie McLean President & Chief Investment Officer Edens Jim Newsome President & CEO South Carolina Ports Authority Cathy Novinger CEO Novinger QTR Consulting Robert Pearce, Jr. Attorney Smith Moore Leatherwood LLP Blanton Phillips President & CEO Phillips Staffing

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s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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S o u t h C a r o l i n a C h a mb e r o f C o mm e r c e S t a ff ~ 2 0 1 4

Tish Anderson Associate Vice President of Programs & Events 803.255.2627

Robbie Barnett Associate Vice President of Workforce, Education & Manufacturing Policy 803.255.2625

Barbara Beckham Vice President of Membership Relations 803.255.2620

Cynthia Bennett Director of Business Relations, SC GEAR UP 803.255.2542

Randy Bradley Vice President of Administrative Services 803.255.2611

Rhonda Caldwell Homework Centers & Business Week Coordinator

Donna Cantrell Administrative Assistant 803.255.2633

Penny Delaney Cothran, APR Multimedia Manager, Editor South Carolina Business 803.255.2564

April Cox Programs and Events Coordinator 803.255.2621

Caroline Donaldson Executive Assistant 803.255.2545

Chris Dornburg Administrative Assistant 803.255.2616

Paul Dunn Manager of Sponsorships and Advertising 803.255.2566

Beverly Hampe Renewal Manager 803.255.2544

Kathy Jacobs Accounting Assistant 803.255.2548

Ryan Melvin Area Manager, New Members 803.255.2614

62 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

S o u t h C a r o l i n a C h a mb e r o f C o mm e r c e S t a ff ~ 2 0 1 4

Fred Monk President (ECI), Find New Markets 803.255.2623

Susan O’Neal Associate Vice President of Finance 803.255.2631

Katie Schanz Legislative Counsel 803.255.2630

Julie Scott Associate Vice President of Communications 803.255.2628

Reid Price Graphic and Web Administrator 803.255.2558

Jack Sloan Associate Vice President of Membership Development 803.255.2552

Sherry Prioleau Assistant Director of Business Relations, SC GEAR UP 803.255.2626

Otis Rawl President & CEO 803.255.2612

Ann Smith Area Manager, New Members 803.255.2568

Tim Timmons Vice President of Human Resources & Workforce Policy 803.255.2624

Advertiser Index

Carolyn Tupper Programs & Events Assistant 803.255.2613

Roxie Williamson Administrative Assistant 803.255.2629

AFL..................................................................................11

Grant Thornton...............................................................35

A.O. Smith Water Products Co.......................................61

Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd P.A............................................1

AT&T South Carolina......................................................17

MASC..............................................................................26

Bank of America.............................................................27

Nexsen Pruet...................................................................21

BB&T South Carolina......................................................33

Palmetto Partners............................................................57

BlueCross BlueShield.............................. Inside Back Cover

Robinson McFadden.......................................................51

BMW Manufacturing......................................................26

Santee Cooper................................................................41

Clemson University...........................................................7

SCDEW............................................................................45

Columbia Marriott Hotel................................................55

Sonoco..............................................................................5

Elliott Davis......................................................................31

Trident Technical College................................................55.

Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics..............53

Women’s Distribution Services Inc..................................52

s c c h a m b e r. n e t | N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 4 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss |

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Palmetto Stars Chairmans Circle BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina presidents Circle AT&T Bank of America BB & T Duke Energy Michelin North America, Inc. Milliken & Company

Nexsen Pruet, LLC Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart Santee Cooper Sonoco South Carolina Electric & Gas Wells Fargo

cornerstone AARP South Carolina AFL Alcoa Mt. Holly BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC The Boeing Company Clemson University‑Office of Governmental Affairs Colonial Life Cox Industries, Inc. Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP CPAs Eaton Corporation Elliott Davis LLC First Quality Tissue SE LLC

Fisher & Phillips LLP Fluor Corporation FN AMERICA FUJIFILM Manufacturing U.S.A., Inc. Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd P.A. The InterTech Group, Inc. Jackson Lewis P.C. Johnson Controls MAU (Management Analysis & Utilization) McNair Law Firm, P.A. MWV Specialty Chemicals NBSC, a division of Synovus Bank

Nucor Steel ‑ South Carolina Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP Pfizer Inc. Piedmont Natural Gas Pure Power Technologies, a Navistar Company Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC Spirit Communications TD Bank, N.A. The Timken Company University of South Carolina URS Zeus Industrial Products, Inc.

crown A. O. Smith Water Products Company Aflac Group Agape Senior Alliance Consulting Engineers, Inc. Allied Air Enterprises Inc. AMCOL Systems, Inc. AnMed Health BD Diagnostics, Preanalytical Solutions Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative Bojangles Restaurants, Inc. Bon Secours St. Francis Health System Bose Corporation Bridgestone Americas Canal Insurance Group The Capital Corporation Carolina Colonoscopy Center Carolina International Trucks, Inc./ Ideal Lease Carowinds CenturyLink CertusBank N.A. Charleston Place Hotel Clean Energy CMC Steel South Carolina Coca‑Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated Community Integrated Mgmt. Svcs. LLC (CIMS) Continental Tire the Americas, LLC Cytec Carbon Fibers, LLC Darlington Raceway Devro Inc. Domtar Electrolux North America, Inc EnergySolutions, LLC Enterprise Holdings Ernst & Young LLP Fabri‑Kal First Citizens Bank Founders Federal Credit Union Franks Car Wash Fresenius Medical Care North America

64 | S o u t h C a r o l i n a B u s i n e ss

Gentiva Health Services Gestamp South Carolina, LLC GKN Aerostructures North America Globalpundits Technology Consultancy Inc. Google Inc. Grant Thornton LLP Greenville Hospital System Gregory Electric Company, Inc. HCA South Atlantic Division Honda of South Carolina Mfg., Inc. Honeywell Aerospace‑Greer Hospitality America, Inc. Intel Corporation, Columbia Design Center International Paper Jarden Process Solutions Johnson & Johnson, Inc. KapStone KENTWOOL Kimberly‑Clark Corporation Kingston Plantation ‑ Kingston Shores Koch Companies Public Sector, LLC Koyo Corporation of USA Mfg. Division Kraft Foods Lexington Medical Center Lockheed Martin The Mariner Group, LLC MasterCard McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture Medical University of South Carolina Nan Ya Plastics Corporation Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corporation Nestle Prepared Foods Company Nexans High Voltage USA Inc. Norfolk Southern Corporation North Eastern Strategic Alliance (NESA) Palmetto Health Palmetto Primary Care Phyisicians Pratt Industries ‑ Recycling Facility

Prestage Farms Regions Bank of South Carolina Republic Services Resolute Forest Products Robert Bosch Corporation, LLC Roche Carolina Inc. Roper St. Francis Healthcare SC Hospital Association ScanSource, Inc. Schaeffler Group USA INC. SCRA Sealed Air Corp.

Select Health of South Carolina, Inc. Sexton Dental Clinic Shaw Industries Group, Inc. Shell Shutterfly, Inc. South Carolina Education Lottery South Carolina State Ports Authority South State Bank Southeastern Freight Lines Staubli Corporation Sunbelt Rentals T & S Brass & Bronze Works, Inc. Target Distribution Center Target Corporation Time Warner Cable Total Comfort Solutions United Parcel Service VERIZON Communications Wal‑Mart Stores, Inc. Waste Management of South Carolina WebsterRogers LLP ‑ CPAs Westinghouse Electric Company Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice LLP Women’s Distribution Services, Inc. World Acceptance Corporation WSI‑Savannah River Site Young Clement Rivers, LLP

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You’ll know so much, you’ll feel like you’re 13 again.

You thought you knew it all then.

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The one magazine read by South Carolina’s top executives.

For advertising and marketing opportunities and our current media kit, contact Deidre Macklen at 803.318.3923, or Tim McKeever at 803.256.3010