It was a great day to be in Eastern NC! The NCEDA family came together for the Eastern NC Regional Networking Luncheon, presented by Greenville Eastern North Carolina Alliance, and emceed by Trey Cash, with NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region.
Donna Phillips, MBA, with NCEast Alliance, moderated a panel that highlighted the powerful assets fueling economic growth in Eastern North Carolina. From agriculture and advanced manufacturing to the rise of renewable energy and biotech, Eastern NC is leveraging its strengths, supported by a robust infrastructure of air, rail, port, and electric networks, to build a more resilient and diverse economy.
When asked, “What makes rural North Carolina different?” Mark Pope with NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region responded: “The people. We have a strong, capable workforce supported by our military bases, community colleges, and training programs. We’re committed to developing talent and preparing our people for the jobs of tomorrow. We also have the land – the space companies need to grow. Now, it’s about making sure our sites are certified and ready. We just need everyone else to recognize the assets we already have.”
Thank you to our incredible panel of regional leaders who shared their insights and expertise:
• Aaron Ouellette, Virginia Port Authority
• Mark Pope, NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region
• Bryan Smith, Dominion Energy
• Norris Tolson, Carolinas Gateway Partnership (Retired)
EDR is proud to have participated in the NCEDA Eastern NC Regional Networking Luncheon. Eastern NC is on the move, and we’re proud to be part of it!
