Tri-County STEMersion, a nonprofit created to bridge the gap between education and workforce, released its 2023 Annual Report after celebrating the successful completion of its 6th Institute year while simultaneously hosting a pilot Student Camp. The report highlights a record funding year and an increase in both total participation and industry involvement.

Teachers and counselors, representing schools from all three counties, register annually to participate in the summer Institute which serves as a method of creating curriculum to address the skill needs of local industries. In 2023 a Student Camp was offered for the first time to test introducing rising 9th and 10th graders directly with local career opportunities. Combined the sessions produced a landmark year reaching more than 36 schools across the tri-county region.

“In the tri-county region, we understand it is crucial to prepare the next generation with the skills needed for tomorrow’s careers,” said Dorchester County Economic Development Deputy Director Michelle McDonald. “By creating a train-the-trainer experience for educators to learn directly from local industries, STEMersion helps impact on our local schools and build a better talent pipeline. As a result, students are exposed to the opportunities and STEM pathways available to them right here in their own backyard.”

Additionally, a record receipt of grants were received to produce the STEM-based summer program. A total of $122,500 in funds, a more than 700% increase in awards, were provided in 2023 by a host of philanthropic organizations including Power:Ed, Google, Bosch, SC Ports Authority, Walmart, Trident Technical College, and Volvo.

“Tri-County STEMersion program sets a new standard in fostering curiosity, empowering minds, and igniting a future in STEM careers,” said Ashley Richardson, Charleston County Economic Development Senior Director. “We are grateful for the support from educators, counselors, businesses, and sponsors and look forward to another year of transformative learning ahead!”

Moving forward the Tri-County STEMersion program will look to further increase participation both from educators and local industries. To support the anticipated increase, involvement directly from each school district has been requested by the counties.

To learn more about Tri-County STEMersion visit www.tricountystemersion.com or reach out to your local county economic development office.

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About Tri-County STEMersion

Tri-County STEMersion is a collaborative effort by Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties, to bridge education and existing industry by developing coursework related to the needs of the local workforce. The immersive hands-on institute is a week-long summer program which introduces real-world workplace demands to area educators through a variety of site visits, activities, and discussions. Designed to reinforce the necessary math, science, and soft skills needed to succeed in local industry professions, STEMersion exists to influence the workforce pipeline of tomorrow. For more information on the STEMersion institute visit www.tricountystemersion.com.

SC Works Trident is partnering with economic development leaders from Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties to host three workforce career fairs in September for Workforce Development Month.

Each county economic development department will co-host a job fair throughout the month to maximize opportunities for job seekers to connect with top-private sector employers and learn more about the open positions available.

“We are excited to join with our economic development partners to offer three opportunities for job seekers to meet with the region’s top employers,” said BCDCOG Workforce Development Director Sharon Goss. “No matter what county you reside in, there are great careers available and SC Works Trident is ready to partner with you to take your next step.”

The full schedule is as follows:

• Berkeley Workforce Career Fair: Wednesday, September 6th from 10 am to 1 pm at the Berkeley County Administration Building, 1003 Highway 52 in Moncks Corner.

               Register for Berkeley.

• Dorchester Workforce Career Fair: Wednesday, September 20th from 10 am to 1 pm at Trident Technical College – Dorchester Campus, 10055 Dorchester Rd. in Summerville.

               Register for Dorchester.

• Charleston Workforce Career Fair: Wednesday, September 27th from 10 am to 1 pm at ECPI University, 3800 Paramount Dr. in North Charleston.

              Register for Charleston.

More on the partnership from our economic development partners:

“Berkeley County Economic Development is proud to collaborate with our neighboring counties to showcase the unique array of career opportunities each county offers,” said Berkeley County Economic Development Workforce Development Manager Corey McClary. “Our Tri-County partnership is valuable to us and a paramount part of our continued investment in the people who live and work here.”

“Here in Dorchester County, as well as throughout the Trident Region, we understand it is crucial to prepare our workforce with the skills needed for tomorrow’s careers,” said Dorchester County Economic Development Deputy Director Michelle McDonald. “We are striving to make every local citizen competitively hirable, whether they’ve been here for years or are one of the 37 new residents moving to our area every day.  Throughout Workforce Development Month, we want to connect every job seeker with the many opportunities to grow and prosper in Dorchester County.”

“Workforce Development Month presents a pivotal moment for us to come together as a community and empower job seekers on their path to success,” said Charleston County Economic Development Senior Director Ashley Richardson. “This initiative underscores our commitment to cultivating a robust workforce equipped with the skills and insights required to thrive in tomorrow’s job landscape. We invite job seekers from Charleston County and every corner of the Trident Region to seize these openings and forge ahead with confidence.”

To maximize the benefits of the event, attendees should observe the following guidelines:

• Bring an updated resume to the hiring event
• Be prepared for an on-site interview
• Email updated resume to employers, if needed

SC Works Trident is available to provide resume assistance to job seekers ahead of the events. Those interested in this service can book an appointment with a career coach at scworkstrident.org/scheduler.

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Jay Kramer has been selected as a 2023 Forty Under 40 winner by the Charleston Regional Business Journal, nominated by members of the Charleston community.

Since 1998, this elite 40 has been comprised of people under 40 years of age who have excelled in the professional arena and in community involvement. We continue to be amazed at the number of individuals who are nominated each year and the quality work and commitment they bring to the Charleston community.

A panel of judges determined who among the nominees would be named to the 2023 class of Forty Under 40. This group of 40 individuals will be recognized at the Forty Under 40 event on Thursday, September 14, 2023.

Click here to view the 2023 honorees.

#40CHS

Heirloom Cloud Corporation (Heirloom), a digital technology service provider, today announced plans to relocate its headquarters to Charleston County. The company’s $150,000 investment will create 19 new jobs.

Founded by two veterans while working for the U.S. government in Washington, D.C., Heirloom uses cloud computing to digitally transform outdated media content. Through a private cloud network, cherished photos and videos become accessible, making old memories sharable like new ones. The company plans to add iPhone and Android applications soon, so subscribers can easily consolidate content onto one platform.

When looking to move its headquarters from Delaware, the owners searched for a business-friendly home from which to scale. They researched multiple regions within a two-day ground delivery to large population centers on the Eastern Seaboard before choosing Charleston County.

Heirloom will lease two offices at the Harbor Entrepreneur Center located at 11 Ewall Street in Mount Pleasant. This headquarters location will be the company’s hub for receiving nationwide shipments and serving walk-in customers. Heirloom will continue using an existing facility in Berkeley County for backend operations.

Operations are already online; individuals interested in joining the Heirloom team should visit the company’s careers page.

“We’ve already digitized millions of photos, home movies and other priceless memories. However, Heirloom can grow faster by moving our headquarters to South Carolina. From a larger fulfillment center here, we get to serve many more families who ship us their cherished media for conversion.” -Heirloom Cloud Corporation Founder Geoff Weber

 “The decision by Heirloom to relocate its headquarters to South Carolina further solidifies our reputation as the best place in the country to do business. We are certain that Charleston will provide the ideal environment for Heirloom to thrive in the years ahead.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“It is an honor that after researching multiple East Coast locations, Heirloom chose Mount Pleasant as the location for its new headquarters. Charleston County is the complete package offering quick access to major U.S. cities while being the kind of place where people want to settle and raise their families. Congratulations Heirloom, and we are anxious to see what is next.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are thrilled to welcome Heirloom’s headquarters to Charleston County’s thriving technological ecosystem. With Heirloom’s presence, our community’s innovative spirit will be further invigorated, fostering collaborations and driving technological advancements.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III 

“We are excited to see Heirloom’s investment and creation of jobs in our community. Part of the reason the Town invested so heavily in the Harbor Entrepreneur Center is because we know we’re a great home for startups and tech firms. We look forward to their growth over the coming years.” -Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie

“The Harbor Entrepreneurship Center’s vibrant community and supportive environment provide the perfect backdrop for Heirloom’s innovative endeavors. By joining forces, we are showcasing the incredible potential of our county but also highlighting our commitment to nurturing and empowering tech startups.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Heirloom Cloud Corporation (Heirloom) is establishing its headquarters in Charleston County.
• The company’s $150,000 investment will create 19 new jobs.
• Heirloom preserves photos, videos and all memories for life.
• The company will be located at 11 Ewall Street in Mount Pleasant, SC.
• Individuals interested in joining the Heirloom team should visit the company’s careers page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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Leidos, a Fortune 500 science and technology leader, today announced plans to establish a new South Carolina operation in Charleston County. The company’s $31.7 million investment will create up to 170 new jobs over time.

The new facility will serve as a Manufacturing Center of Excellence for Leidos’ Security Enterprise Solutions (SES) operation. It will produce security systems for screening checked baggage, cargo and passengers. This new facility will enable the company to bring more manufacturing in-house, providing Leidos with greater control of its operations by reducing dependencies on external entities.

Leidos’ SES offers a suite of fully automated and integrated solutions for aviation, shipping ports, border crossings and critical infrastructure customers worldwide. The operation’s comprehensive security detection portfolio has more than 30,000 products deployed across 129 countries.

Leidos will lease a new 150,000-square-foot facility located in the Ladson Industrial Park in North Charleston. This new space will help bolster the company’s critical capacity to support its growing customer base while optimizing manufacturing efficiency, quality and safety through the application of best-in-class manufacturing processes.

Operations are expected to commence in the first quarter of 2024; individuals interested in joining the Leidos team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to this project.

“We are thrilled to announce our new manufacturing facility in South Carolina. This expansion represents an exciting milestone for Leidos as we embark on a new chapter in our commitment to deliver cutting-edge security systems. By establishing this facility, we aim not only to provide top-tier solutions, but also to contribute to the local community by creating job opportunities. We are dedicated to fostering economic growth and are eager to collaborate with the talented workforce in South Carolina to build a safer and more secure future together.” –Leidos Civil Group President Jim Moos

“We are fortunate to have Leidos in the South Carolina business community. Charleston County’s strong workforce and infrastructure will provide an environment for Leidos to prosper for years to come. Congratulations to Leidos on their success.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“We are excited to welcome new operations of this global company – one that works to advance our security on the shoreline and our supply chain – to the Charleston County community. Leidos’ growth will strengthen South Carolina’s economy, and we look forward to the resulting opportunities.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“The establishment of Leidos’ manufacturing center will not only create up to 170 new jobs but also solidify Charleston County’s position as a thriving hub for technological innovation. We congratulate Leidos on this momentous achievement and express gratitude for their confidence in our community.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

“Leidos coming to the Charleston region brings tremendous opportunities for economic prosperity with its Fortune 500 expertise, global footprint and vision for innovative solutions in the defense industry. Security products manufactured right here in the region by our people will help keep our country safer against outside threats.” -Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chairman and President and Chief Executive Officer of Berkeley Electric Cooperative Mike Fuller

“We are fortunate to have another high-tech global leader investing in Charleston County. Because of companies like Leidos, we are further diversifying the defense and technology sector. The company is dedicated to contributing to the local community by creating job opportunities and helping to foster economic growth.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Leidos is establishing a new South Carolina operation in Charleston County.
• The company’s $31.7 million investment will create up to 170 new jobs over time.
• Leidos is a Fortune 500 science and technology leader.
• The facility will be located in the Ladson Industrial Park in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Leidos team should visit the company’s careers page.

 About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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Averitt Express, a freight transportation and supply chain service provider, today announced it expanded its operations in Charleston County. The company’s $4.58 million investment will create 12 new jobs.

Originally established in 1971 in Livingston, Tennessee, Averitt is one of the nation’s leading freight transportation providers, handling shipments globally. In 2012, Averitt opened its first hybrid facility in Charleston County offering cross-dock and warehouse space. This service center is a critically important location that supports the company’s less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload distribution network, providing shippers with efficient and timely services.

Located at 7749 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston, Averitt Express added 35,000 square feet of warehousing space to its current facility and additional on-site parking and fuel tanks. The expansion enhances the company’s ability to accommodate increased customer demand and support the growing volume of cargo moving in and out of the Port of Charleston.

Operations are already online; individuals interested in joining the Averitt Express team should visit the company’s careers page.

“We are excited to grow our presence in one of the nation’s most strategic logistics hubs. From supporting the local shipping needs of our customers in Charleston County to the global supply chain needs of those across the country and around the world, our team is dedicated to ensuring that our customers and local communities succeed and grow.” -Averitt Express Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Barry Blakely

 “Congratulations to Averitt Express on their expansion in Charleston County. It is great to see companies working to advance the state’s supply chain framework and providing increased services to our distribution network.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

 “South Carolina has the distribution and logistics infrastructure to help support Averitt Express’ expansive, supply chain services. We congratulate Averitt Express and look forward to the impact of their expansion in the Charleston County community.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Averitt Express’s expansion will undoubtedly create new opportunities for employment, stimulate economic development and strengthen our local supply chain. We look forward to the continued collaboration between Averitt Express and Charleston County, as we work together to build a brighter and more prosperous future for all.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

“As the Mayor of North Charleston, I am thrilled to see Averitt Express expanding its presence in our city. This significant investment of $4.58 million strengthens our local economy and underscores North Charleston’s position as a prime location for business growth. We welcome Averitt Express with open arms and look forward to a successful partnership to benefit the company and our residents.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“As Charleston County stands proudly as a premier logistics hub, we solidify our reputation as a global gateway for trade and commerce. Our thriving ecosystem has consistently attracted industry leaders worldwide; among them, Averitt Express has emerged as a shining star. Over the past decade, we have witnessed their remarkable growth, and it fills us with immense pride to have them as a significant contributor to our flourishing logistics landscape.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes 

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Averitt Express is expanding its Charleston County operations.
• The company’s $4.58 million investment will create 12 new jobs.
• Averitt Express is a freight transportation and supply chain service provider.
• Averitt Express is located at 7749 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Averitt Express team should visit the company careers page.

 About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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Protego (USA), Inc. (Protego (USA)), a global industrial equipment manufacturer, today announced plans to expand its Charleston County operations. The company’s $10.1 million investment will create 39 new jobs.

Founded in 1954, Protego (USA) builds and provides devices and tank equipment for the oil and gas, petroleum, chemical, pharmaceutical and bio-energy industries. The company’s products include flame arresters, valves and tank equipment, as well as new products for cryogenic storage applications.

With current operations at 9561 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston, the company plans to expand its existing facility and transition from assembling to manufacturing tank venting and explosion protection product lines. The expansion will also allow the company to implement production welding and computer numerical control (CNC) machining capabilities.

The expansion is expected to be complete by 2026. Hiring will begin in 2024; individuals interested in joining the Protego (USA) team should visit the company’s careers page.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development awarded a $50,000 Set-Aside grant to Charleston County to assist with the costs of building construction.

“We are excited about the expansion of our Landmark Business Park building on Palmetto Commerce Parkway. This expansion will create more employment opportunities in the greater Charleston area.  Our goal is to provide excellent products and services and with the expansion we will be able to increase our raw materials supplies from our domestic U.S. supply chain. We will be able to continue to be a market leader in delivery times for our North American market and continue to offer a top-of-the-line product to our growing list of customers.” -Protego (USA), Inc. President Chris Mason

 “With Protego (USA)’s new expansion, South Carolina’s manufacturing industry continues to be one of the best in the nation. We congratulate Protego (USA) on their $10.1 million investment and look forward to their continued success in our state.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

 “South Carolina has the robust economy to support the continued growth of top-notch companies such as Protego (USA). We congratulate Protego (USA) on this latest expansion and look forward to the new opportunities that they will bring to the Charleston community.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

 “Protego (USA)’s decision to expand their operations here underscores the strength and potential of our local economy, showcasing Charleston County as an ideal destination for top-tier companies. We are proud to have Protego (USA) as a valued member of our business community, and we congratulate them on this remarkable expansion.” –Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

 “As the Mayor of North Charleston, I am thrilled to see Protego (USA)’s expansion plans in Charleston County. This expansion boosts our local economy and reinforces North Charleston’s reputation as a hub for innovative industrial manufacturing. We will continue to support Protego (USA)’s success and partnership in driving economic prosperity for our city and region.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“The decision by Protego (USA) to expand its operations in Palmetto Commerce Park showcases the area’s status as a thriving hub of commerce activity. I am delighted to witness the company’s commitment to manufacturing excellence and job creation within our flourishing community.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes 

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Protego (USA), Inc. is expanding its Charleston County operations.
• The company’s $10.1 million investment will create 39 new jobs.
• Protego (USA), Inc. is a global industrial equipment manufacturer.
• Located at 9561 Palmetto Commerce Parkway in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Protego (USA) team should visit the company’s careers page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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Ranger Design, a manufacturer and provider of innovative fleet upfit solutions, today announced plans to establish its first South Carolina operations in Charleston County. The company’s $1.5 million investment will create approximately 50 new jobs.

Established in 1988, Ranger Design is an industry leader in fleet upfit solutions, offering innovative products such as shelving, racks and accessories for commercial vehicles. Ranger Design’s rapid design prototyping and state-of-the-art manufacturing process supports the trades workforce by developing tough, innovative products to make work more efficient and safer.

The new-commercial vehicle upfitting center, located at 9035-K Sightline Drive in North Charleston, will enable Ranger Design to better serve its current customers with extra warehousing capacity. This facility will also allow the company to expand its footprint for fleet upfit solutions in commercial electric and gas-powered vehicles.

Operations are expected to be online by the summer of 2023. Individuals interested in joining the Ranger Design team should visit the company’s careers page.

“We are thrilled to establish our new upfitting center in North Charleston, South Carolina. This expansion of our fleet upfit solutions capabilities is a significant part of our overall growth plan. It positions us for new opportunities and enables us to better serve our current customers.” -Ranger Design President and Chief Executive Officer Ron Cowie

“Ranger Design’s investment in Charleston County will not only add to South Carolina’s impressive automotive industry, but also provide new economic opportunities for our people. We welcome Ranger Design to our state and look forward to the work they will do here.”   -Gov. Henry McMaster 

 “We are pleased to welcome Ranger Design to Charleston County. South Carolina is known as an automotive powerhouse, and our suppliers help reinforce that reputation. Ranger Design establishing operations in our state adds a unique addition to South Carolina’s manufacturing landscape.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“Today, we celebrate a momentous occasion as Ranger Design, a trailblazer in fleet upfit solutions, announces plans to establish its first operations in Charleston County. This facility marks a significant milestone in Ranger Design’s growth strategy, propelling the company toward new opportunities and allowing it to serve valued customers better. We extend a warm welcome to Ranger Design and eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will bring to the Charleston community.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

 “I am thrilled that Ranger Design has chosen Charleston County and North Charleston as the location for its first operations in South Carolina. This $1.5 million investment is not only a testament to our region’s strong business environment but also a significant boost to our local economy. The establishment of Ranger Design will also create new jobs, providing exciting opportunities for our residents. We welcome Ranger Design with open arms and look forward to a successful partnership as we continue to foster growth and prosperity in our community.” -North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey

“We warmly welcome Ranger Design as a new partner strengthening our region’s economy, creating job opportunities for our residents, and enhancing our position in the automotive industry. Their investment is testament to the attractiveness and potential of our region and aligns with our vision of a prosperous future.” – Charleston Regional Development Alliance Board Chairman and President and CEO of Berkeley Electric Cooperative Mike Fuller

“Ranger Design’s announcement reaffirms Charleston County’s appeal as a destination for business growth and highlights our commitment to fostering innovation and economic prosperity. We welcome the opportunities it will provide for our community and look forward to a prosperous partnership.” –Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes 

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Ranger Design is establishing its first South Carolina operations in Charleston County.
• The company’s $1.5 million investment will create approximately 50 new jobs.
• Ranger Design is a provider of fleet upfit solutions and manufacturer of vehicle storage solutions for commercial electric and gas-powered vehicles.
• Located at 9035-K Sightline Drive in North Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Ranger Design team should visit the company’s careers page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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Consultant Connect, a consulting agency designed to bridge the gap between economic developers and site consultants, announces its 2023 list of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers. The economic development professionals selected for this list were nominated by their colleagues in both the economic development and site location consulting industries for excellent practices, innovation and success in building the communities they serve. Each Top 50 Economic Developer will be featured starting June 1st through the selected social media channels of LinkedIn and Twitter, where each award recipient will have the opportunity to share
industry knowledge, leadership insights and career wisdoms with fellow industry professionals. Consultant Connect strives to lift up the economic development industry by recognizing remarkable economic developers. Recipients will be presented their award at Consultant Connect’s ECONOMIX event in Atlanta, GA November 30.

“The Consultant Connect team looks forward to releasing the Top 50 list every year because we believe that the work of economic developers is not only transformative to communities, but it is deeper than that. Each year jobs are created that impact individuals and their families. We are truly honored to provide a platform for North America’s top economic developers to be recognized for the passionate commitment they have made to the communities they serve.”

The complete list of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers of 2023 includes:

Alba Penate-Johnson
Sugar Land Office of Economic Development

Alex Patrick
Birmingham Business Alliance

Ashley Richardson
Charleston County Economic Development

Barton Lowery
Georgia Department of Economic Development

Bob Kosek
Georgia Department of Economic Development

Bradley Harris
Georgia EMC

Brent Case
The Right Place, Inc.

Carl Rees, CecD
ElectriCities of North Carolina

Casey Gilchrist
Greater Phoenix Economic Council

Chad Matheson
Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance

Chris Caves
Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce

Chris Gutierrez
Kansas City Area Development Council

Chris Masingill
St. Tammany Corporation

Clyde Higgs
Atlanta Beltline

Coleman Peiffer
Alliant Energy

Corky Peek
Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development

Daniel Silverman
Investissement Québec International

David Rodgers, CEcD
Mobile Chamber of Commerce

David P. Rumbarger Jr. CEcD
Community Development Foundation Tupelo

Diana Velazquez EDFP, PCED
Greater Irving Chamber of Commerce

Douglas E. Berry
Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce

Elaine Middleton
Fayetteville-Lincoln County Industrial Development Board

Dr. Eloisa Klementich, CEcD
Invest Atlanta

Harold Gutzwiller
Hoosier Energy

James Bateman
Greenwood County

James Kohnstamm, CEcD
Miami-Dade Beacon Council

Jason Ford, CEcD
Frisco Economic Development Corporation

Jennifer Martin
Greater Oklahoma City Chamber

Joe Wallace
Coachella Valley Economic Partnership

John M. Hull
Roanoke Regional Partnership

Katherine O’Neill
One Spartanburg, Inc.

Katie Hogan
FPL Office of Economic Development

Kevin Carter, EDFP
Amarillo Economic Development

Kim Allen
Purdue Research Foundation

Lawrence McKinney CCE, CEcD, IOM
Norman Economic Development Coalition

Lee Crume
BE NKY Growth Partnership

Liberty A. Boyd CEcD, EDFP
American Electric Power

Mandy White
Greater Jackson Chamber

Meghan Welch
Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Nathan Zipper
Williamson, Inc.

Ralph Garcia
McAllen Economic Development Corporation

RJ Ball
Empire State Development

Ron Maloney
Northwest Arkansas Council

Sharon H. Barnard
Victoria Economic Development Corporation

Shawn Welcome
Louisiana Economic Development

Tami Petsche
Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce

Tyler Chaffee
Tennessee Valley Authority

Valerie Christofferson, EDFP
Consumers Energy

Valerie M. Pianta, MEDP
Hernando County Office of Economic Development

Veronica Crock
Alabama Department of Commerce

Consultant Connect works to bridge the gap between leading economic developers and site location consultants through exclusive networking events, educational services and leadership development. Consultant Connect not only gives economic developers an inside look into the world of site selection – it gives them the applicable information necessary to propel their careers and communities forward. For more information, please visit www.consultantconnect.org.

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Ignite Digital Services, a leading digital technology solutions company, today announced plans to establish headquarters in Charleston County. The company’s $966,426 investment will create 135 new jobs.

Ignite Digital Services is an operational consulting company, providing program integration and data management services to commercial and national security customers. As a certified global UiPath Premier Partner, Ignite Digital Services uses digital technology and effective business solutions to ignite digital transformations across the industry. UiPath helps fast-track portfolio innovation and enhance product capabilities for clients looking to harness robotic process automation (RPA) and automation.

Locating to 1505 King Street in Charleston, Ignite Digital Services is leasing a facility for its new Charleston headquarters. With current operations in San Diego, C.A., Norfolk, V.A., Washington, D.C., and New Orleans, L.A., the company plans to expand across all locations and expects the most significant growth in the Charleston location.

Hiring is underway; visit the company’s careers page for employment opportunities.

Operations are expected to be complete by 2024.

“The state of South Carolina and the Charleston metropolitan area provide the ideal environment for Ignite Digital Services to expand its operations and client portfolio. The region offers a high quality of life for its residents and attracts a wide pool of technology talent, both of which support the city and our organization’s rapid growth. We appreciate the work done by the Governor and Secretary of Commerce to drive the innovation economy in this area and are excited for this new opportunity to expand Charleston’s technology community.” -Ignite Digital Services Chief Executive Officer Marc Murphy

“South Carolina is proud to congratulate Ignite Digital Services on today’s announcement. Their establishment proves once again that our state is committed to fostering an innovative business environment and is a leading destination for the technology community to invest and grow.” -Gov. Henry McMaster

“Charleston proves to be the right fit for Ignite Digital Services, offering a community rich in resources to support its headquarters. This decision is evidence that the company is strengthening its presence in the Southeast and capitalizing on logistics to access an expanding customer base. We are proud to support this project and look forward to the company’s future endeavors.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III

“We are thrilled to celebrate Ignite Digital Services’ establishment in Charleston County. Their investment and creation of 135 new jobs will undoubtedly propel our local economy forward. Charleston County welcomes and supports the growth of Ignite Digital Services, and we look forward to the positive impact they will have on our community and beyond.” -Charleston County Council Chairman Herbert Ravenel Sass III

“Ignite Digital Service’s announcement demonstrates their confidence in our community and highlights Charleston County’s appeal as a destination for innovative businesses.” -Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes

FIVE FAST FACTS

• Ignite Digital Services is establishing headquarters in Charleston County.
• The company’s $966,426 investment will create 135 new jobs.
• Ignite Digital Services is an operational consulting company, providing program integration and data management services to commercial and national security clients.
• Located at 1505 King Street, Suite #108, in Charleston, S.C.
• Individuals interested in joining the Ignite Digital Services team should visit the company’s careers page.

About Charleston County Economic Development

For three decades, Charleston County Economic Development Department has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining business relationships with new and existing industries to preserve the Charleston area’s exceptional business climate and quality of life. To learn more about Charleston County Economic Development, visit dev-cced-migrate.pantheonsite.io/.

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