tag:www.wncbusiness.com,2005:/categories/news?page=3News | WNC Business Page 3Connect | Inform | Inspire2024-03-05T15:32:04-05:00urn:uuid:eab276de-fcdb-43f1-91f8-5bffb399eda12024-03-05T15:31:33-05:002024-03-05T15:32:04-05:00BRCC begins construction of automated greenhouse2024-03-05 15:31:46 -0500WNC Business<table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-center"><table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-left"><p>HENDERSONVILLE – The site of a soon-to-be state-of-the-art automated greenhouse attracted educators, community members, elected officials and industry leaders from across the region to Blue Ridge Community College on March 4. The new 4,727 sq. ft. greenhouse will be used for instruction in technology-centered agricultural methods, training for employees for local agribusinesses and to encourage interdisciplinary learning activities between the College’s related programs, such as information technology, cybersecurity, engineering technology and advanced manufacturing.</p><p>Located on Blue Ridge’s Henderson County Campus in Flat Rock, the new greenhouse will be adjacent to the College’s existing greenhouse near the Spearman Building at 150 East Campus Drive. The facility is funded by a combined $1.25M provided by the Golden LEAF Foundation and Cannon Foundation, with additional infrastructure support provided by Henderson County.</p><p>During the event, Blue Ridge president Dr. Laura B. Leatherwood called the greenhouse a symbol of growth for both Blue Ridge’s horticulture program and the area’s agribusinesses.</p><p>“It’s also a symbol of our ability to come together to meet a need,” she said, “ensuring that Blue Ridge graduates will continue to learn the right skills for tomorrow’s jobs.”</p><p>In 2023, <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001zyNTvVYF9y67vLgUAryXXOdEtfUY4KsMEoLKmPIlBp46tqo73IWEiym881BhK9bwqt2s9yiG6oZQ5fCw471S1kVEfCfuHwQG0OdrsEDCSYS4vEG7dolKudpGiI33tVZOkCJ9mGVpQcGKH2CQfsNuSSrxWN9Vr1vdKA5j4vzAf9XYckOwMr_dr-S2E5jv_GC1RIJM_foCbBn3brXiL-6qxurETAcjFNLKP6ZFFsqvDleTNNCkJnYNuaIGB4Fdt3VdwZzwMSYw4cUIXBTFKLhS8ml_g2lGm0UuNOU_08xl9gdg1ap1mptw9A==&c=zgPWYLIsXkfr78Yv_M_xJGpAHU7NcTp6YIw5WDTBLxvpwENcrnyQaw==&ch=XXmm2bPvNxe4mNqUfHGEV9KpmOKR2PEVaHe6TCNjpRxscvAZoWq8bw==" target="_blank">North Carolina State University called</a> agriculture North Carolina’s “number one industry,” reporting that the sector generated 16% of the $662B gross state product, employing <a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001zyNTvVYF9y67vLgUAryXXOdEtfUY4KsMEoLKmPIlBp46tqo73IWEiym881BhK9bwLKCLN71UHkw6SV7M9gyZVQIw9OuThnelZFnnFDhp6oKgAU9lvrR0xTmT2ImYiCI6Ld6Y4hUj3Dh_8HYkhTuKFvUOiy1hJrl8Wc0AMbRy2rMZ7DRLDqkWCL293OTdb_DN1oAfZo4iTwuIIDI1tXblayP8TVLIsKjO&c=zgPWYLIsXkfr78Yv_M_xJGpAHU7NcTp6YIw5WDTBLxvpwENcrnyQaw==&ch=XXmm2bPvNxe4mNqUfHGEV9KpmOKR2PEVaHe6TCNjpRxscvAZoWq8bw==" target="_blank">nearly one in five</a> workers.</p><p>Blue Ridge’s Board of Trustees previously selected Clark Nexsen Architects for design and Cooper Construction for installation of the greenhouse. When complete, the facility will feature a translucent polycarbonate glazed roofing, attached bathrooms and automated climate controls.</p><p>In her remarks, instructor Rachel Meriwether said that specialized knowledge is needed in a modern automated greenhouse to precisely control factors such as humidity, light and temperature. The strategy is different, for example, if a grower is working to achieve floral growth versus vegetative growth.</p><p>The new greenhouse is projected for completion in the summer of 2025.</p><p>More information about Blue Ridge Community College’s degrees, diplomas and certificates in horticulture technology is available at <a href="http://www.BlueRidge.edu/Horticulture" target="_blank">BlueRidge.edu/Horticulture</a>.</p></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-center"><table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-left"><b>About Blue Ridge Community College: </b><br>Blue Ridge Community College is a two-year, post-secondary institution that elevates the educational experience to prepare students for 21st-century success in the workplace or at four-year colleges and universities. <br><i>Source: Blue Ridge Community College</i></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-center"></td></tr></tbody></table><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:0a9ab5bf-2384-45d7-aa69-1b20c490433d2024-03-04T19:36:04-05:002024-03-04T19:36:09-05:00Land of Sky Regional Council supports Affordable Connectivity Program2024-03-04 19:36:03 -0500WNC Business<p>Land of Sky Regional Council Board of Delegates unanimously passed a resolution at their February 28 meeting to support the extension of the Affordable Connectivity Program. The Board of Delegates are made up of elected officials representing our region’s 20 local governments, economic development representatives and aging representatives. ACP provides up to $30 per month to help eligible households pay for internet service and up to $75 per month for households on tribal lands. Over 26,000 households in the Land of Sky region of Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties are served by ACP. The Federal Communication Commission has projected ACP will exhaust available funding by April 2024. Most private broadband providers support the extension of ACP and there has been bipartisan legislation introduced in Congress to extend this funding. </p><p>Land of Sky Regional Council launched WestNGN in partnership with many others to create more digitally connected communities in Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, and Transylvania counties. These counties, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina, have historically been underfunded and had poorly accessible digital connectivity. WestNGN has worked to improve the significant gaps in broadband service and affordability in an effort to improve surrounding communities' access to vital services. Federal and state governments have provided historic funding to expand broadband to underserved communities. The extension of ACP will help support broadband expansion as providers will have a greater assurance that more households will connect to broadband internet service. </p><p>"We have been working on bridging the digital divide in in Western North Carolina for many years. The Affordable Connectivity Program is a critical part of the effort to extend broadband connectivity in our region. We believe without extension of ACP, less households will have access to broadband for critical needs like employment, education and healthcare," Sara Nichols, Energy and Economic Development Manager with Land of Sky Regional Council said.<em><b><span><u></u><u></u></span></b></em></p><p>"The people of WNC deserve to thrive and so many critical resources live in a digital landscape. These funds will help us expand our work to bring greater connectivity options to our citizens. We are helping to find those impacted by lack of connectivity to get them the connection they need. We are excited to be moving forward on closing the digital divide,"Nichols said.</p><p><i>Source: Land of Sky Regional Council</i></p><p><u></u></p><p><u></u> </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:8fd5908f-6424-4ce5-bfa4-60a6da59a98f2024-03-04T10:21:50-05:002024-03-04T10:21:56-05:00Local Edward Jones office announces available position2024-03-04 10:21:49 -0500WNC Business<span>At Edward Jones is very intentional in calling its field associates branch teams. Most teams are two or three people, and in a Branch Office Support Professional role, this individual is a critical member of that team along with the financial advisor. The Branch Office Administrator is the first voice a client hears when they call on the phone – the first face they see when they walk in the door. There are many responsibilities, but the most important is getting to know the clients so well in order to not only help them identify their problems – to also see them coming a mile away. The Branch Office Administrator and the financial advisor are essential in working together to help clients achieve their most cherished financial goals.<br><br></span><h3><strong>What characteristics make a successful BOA?</strong></h3><div><span>• Ability to deepen and broaden client relationships<br>• </span>Ability to identify opportunities to create efficiency<br><span>• Strong ability to work independently<br>• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline driven environment<br>• Proficient in current and new office technology<br>• Willingness to learn how financial services/markets work<br><br>This position includes a comprehensive six-month training period, a peer mentor and supportive team, and </span><span>culture of continuous improvement and professional development reflecting a respect for individuals and their unique contributions.<br><br>Learn more details including an overview of Edward Jones and available position compensation </span><a href="https://careers.edwardjones.com/job/19921772/branch-office-administrator-asheville-nc/#tab-id-1" target="_blank">here</a>.<br><br><i>Source: Katherine Morosani at Edward Jones</i></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:87347724-2e53-474c-9375-ef886a4b5d022024-02-28T12:45:49-05:002024-02-28T17:20:45-05:00Economist Mark Vitner shares economic outlook2024-02-28 12:45:48 -0500Randee Brown<p>Chief Economist Mark Vitner shared his outlook for 2024 at Hendersonville Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Outlook Breakfast, discussing the US economy’s resilience as well as inflation, highlighting job growth and residential and commercial real estate market trends.</p><p>In the second half of 2023, as well as so far in the first quarter of 2024, the US economy saw economic and job growth, and Vitner said this means a recession is unlikely. While the unemployment rate is low, manufacturing and construction industries are short on workers. </p><p>With the median age for workers in these industries in their 50s, many more will be retiring in upcoming years, though many in the 65+ age range are still active in the workforce. Many women with young children who left the workforce during COVID have returned, but the workforce participation rate by men has decreased.</p><p>Job growth is especially notable in industries like government, healthcare, leisure and hospitality, and personal services. Though manufacturing has expanded in the area and makes up about 24% of the GDP, it only represents about 11% of the region’s workforce. The September employment numbers were revised downward; however, and indicate weaker job growth than previously reported.</p><p>Interest rates have been a concern for many, and Vitner said it is likely the federal government will cut rates in 2024, though they are likely to tread likely due to 2024 being an election year. Cuts may come in June, September, and December, and possibly into 2025. </p><p>Wide swings in business activity and the economic indicators associated with that have been distorted. Declines of orders for goods at the beginning of the pandemic created negative growth, and the rise of supply chain issues over recent years created shortages, both of which leading to an overly-negative economic appearance. The Federal Reserve was much more involved in the treasury market during the pandemic as they attempted to normalize their holdings.</p><p>A large decline of leading economic indicators for 24 months nears the record continuous drop of 25 months, which indicated financial crisis. Though the GDP is currently rising, unusual during a time of decreasing LEIs, Vitner warns against the phrase “this time is different.”</p><p>In Henderson County, the job growth rate was 4.2% over the last year, the largest in the Asheville Metropolitan Statistical Area. Despite housing costs being 1.3 times more expensive than the median home nationwide, many people continue to relocate to the County, especially from areas like Florida and other areas where costs of living tend to be higher than WNC.</p><p>As people relocate, the area leans more closely to full employment, which means that everyone who wants a job has one. If full employment is achieved, the economy can only grow as fast as productivity growth, which as been approximately 1.5%. With growth in the labor force around 2/10 of 1%, if growth is faster than 1.7%, that puts pressure on inflation. The pressure seen bringing down inflation is likely to reverse a bit, and for the next six months, there are likely to be disappointments in inflation. </p><p>Many people relocating to the area originated from large cities where they used mass transit for transportation. As these new residents now needed their own vehicles, pressure was put on car prices. Food prices, which have risen 1.2% over the last year, actually increased 21% since January 2021. The last time Vitner saw that same percentage of increase was a longer stretch of time, between 2008 and 2021. A major factor in this rapid inflation is the cost of labor for grocery stores rose 19.5% over the last three years, so those costs are being passed along to the consumer.</p><p>With core services being 60% of what the average consumer purchases, the cost of these are being largely driven by the labor force. The rate of inflation of services is 5.9%, but Vitner said those should be coming down. </p><p>The Consumer Price Index has been distorted by healthcare costs among others. As millions of people received free vaccines, medical care costs were understated and seasonally adjusted in an attempt to find average trends. Seasonal adjustments on economic data impacts interest rates across the nation.</p><p>Increasing housing costs create affordability challenges, which has impacted migration of homeowners to areas with lower overall costs. Currently, the majority of homeowners, about 80%, have a mortgage rate below 5%. While the long-term average rate is higher, around 7%, few people are willing to give up their rates below 5%. With limited supply and high demand, home prices are still likely to increase by approximately 5% this year, mainly because so many people are unwilling to sell. Multi-family homes and apartment complexes are rapidly being constructed to help meet demand.</p><p>The commercial real estate market peaked in late 2021. Other than the office market, vacancies have risen modestly. Office vacancies, particularly in urban markets and in older buildings, has increased more sharply. In Q4 of 2023, the vacancy rate was 19.6%, leading to a price decrease of 17.6% year-over-year.</p><p>As an increased number of people have relocated to the Southeast, Vitner predicts an upcoming baby boom in the region, eventually leading to increased population as well as increased labor participation rates in years to come.</p><p><br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:170b7b78-6f7a-4eae-ae7b-33495bd89d502024-02-28T08:25:29-05:002024-02-28T08:25:35-05:00Black Wall Street AVL introduces free Inaugural Virtual Incubator Program2024-02-28 08:25:29 -0500WNC Business<p>ASHEVILLE - Black Wall Street AVL introduces the launch of its Inaugural National Virtual Incubator, adding to its educational lineup in anticipation of the Fourth Annual Grind-Fest. This virtual program webinar series will be hosted on March 6 and 13. The ninety-minute sessions are designed to empower Black-owned businesses by equipping them with crucial tools, language, and resources to access opportunities within the tourism industry.</p><p>"We have enrolled more than 141 businesses, generated over $3 million in total revenue, and created 22 jobs. Black Wall Street has actively tapped into the $3 billion tourism economy by preparing BIPOC entrepreneurs for engagement." - J Hackett, Founder of Black Wall Street AVL.</p><p>Black Wall Street AVL National Virtual Incubator will offer participants entry-level assistance in accessing local tourism funding, locating decision-makers to access tourism dollars, and how they can be a part of Asheville's biggest revenue-generating festival, the Grind-Fest, happening in May. Notably, Grind-Fest is renowned for celebrating Black business and entrepreneurship. In addition, BWS-Avl offers monthly meetings for members to learn and grow collaboratively and quarterly virtual sessions, expanding its national reach to support Black-owned businesses in tourism education.</p><p>"By empowering entrepreneurs, we are using our local programming, by leveraging the E13 data tool and employing our dynamic logic model, we have cultivated resilient leaders who seize opportunities, mitigate risks, and create impactful ventures." - Aisha Adams, Co-developer and Director of Black Wall Street AVL's G.A.T.E. Program.</p><p>Nestled under the umbrella of Black Wall Street AVL, the Grind Fest is a free, three-day event that celebrates the success of Black entrepreneurs and business owners in Asheville. Commencing May 24 through 26, attendees will enjoy music and live performances from national recording artists and entertainment such as games, food, and local vendors as well as learning, employment, and partnership opportunities with the organizations Duke Energy and Buncombe County.</p><p>Black Wall Street AVL partners include Explore Asheville, Mountain Bizworks, and Thrive Asheville play a pivotal role in developing, contributing, and connecting participants with learning resources. In addition, this year's program is funded by the Asheville Chamber of Commerce, Asheville Merchants Fund, Buncombe County, Community Foundation of W.N.C., Duke Energy, Mountain Bizworks, and Thrive Asheville.</p>To learn more about Black Wall Street AVL's impact in shaping the future of BIPOC entrepreneurship in Asheville, visit our website<span><a href="https://blackwallstreetavl.com/"> </a><a href="https://blackwallstreetavl.com/">here</a></span>. To sign up for the Black Wall Street AVL Incubator Program, visit the registration<span><a href="https://form.jotform.com/240455534949061"> </a><a href="https://form.jotform.com/240455534949061">link</a>.<br><br><i>Source: Black Wall Street</i></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:2aca9303-5376-4e1a-a14c-446903c8cdb62024-02-26T17:48:50-05:002024-02-26T17:48:57-05:00Wallwerks to be featured at 1 Million Cups2024-02-26 17:48:49 -0500WNC BusinessIn 2019, 828 Labs, LLC, emerged onto the scene, unveiling <a href="https://hatchavl.us16.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f716236eac220ac842c16b824&id=1584accb8f&e=c4f2f8680e" target="_blank">Wallwerx</a> — an innovative organizational system tailored for homes and offices. This fully-patented solution is made to provide visible, clean, and secure storage for small items, guaranteeing a seamless and efficient retrieval process.<br><br>Fueled by a shared passion for consumer product development and a dedication to the art of workspace organization, 828 Labs, LLC takes pride in the USA manufacturing of its products, ensuring a blend of top-notch quality and craftsmanship.<br><br>Join 1 Million Cups on Wednesday at 9:00 AM to delve deeper into the story of 828 Labs and discover the flagship product, <a href="https://hatchavl.us16.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f716236eac220ac842c16b824&id=fee1c36957&e=c4f2f8680e" target="_blank">Wallwerx</a>.<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:6c211fd0-ee74-4eee-b691-b23fd90f2f812024-02-26T08:11:30-05:002024-02-26T08:11:35-05:00Grant expands electric vehicle infrastructure workforce in WNC2024-02-26 08:11:30 -0500WNC Business<table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-center"><table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-left"><p>HENDERSONVILLE – The Appalachian Regional Commission announced approval of a grant in the amount of $367,182 to Blue Ridge Community College to support their ‘Expanding Electric Vehicle Infrastructure in Western NC’ project. With resources provided by both ARC and the College, project funding will total over $734k. The initiative will address the critical training needs for electrical vehicle mechanics, charging station maintenance, and first responder safety protocols.</p><p>Dr. Scott Queen, Blue Ridge Community College’s vice president for economic and workforce development, explained that the funding will enable the purchase of two fully electric vehicles for training in both Henderson and Transylvania counties, as well as professional development for Blue Ridge automotive faculty.</p><p>There is a documented lack of EV infrastructure in the region needed to support the expansion of EV use to address state and national goals. North Carolina currently has approximately 1,400 EV charging stations, and plans to accommodate 1.25M EVs by 2030. The charging infrastructure will have to expand significantly in order to accommodate this significant growth, and it is essential to prepare a skilled workforce to support the EV ecosystem.</p><p>Blue Ridge will develop and implement short-term job training programs and expand apprenticeship programs to address these critical needs. The main proposed project activities to address these needs are to update current programming in Electric Vehicle Mechanics to include pathways for high school students and develop short-term training opportunities to address the maintenance of electric vehicle charging stations. Both programming areas will incorporate opportunities for apprenticeship. </p><p>Through the purchase of electric vehicles and EV charging equipment, as well as curriculum and certificate development, students will receive hands-on training and key credentials to succeed in the growing EV industry. In addition, the project will support Blue Ridge's NC Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program, Apprenticeship Blue Ridge, in the Automotive Systems Technology and Electrical pathways.</p><p>More information about Blue Ridge Community College’s automotive and transportation technology programs is available at <a href="http://www.BlueRidge.edu/Automotive" target="_blank">BlueRidge.edu/Automotive</a>.<br></p></td></tr></tbody></table><br></td></tr></tbody></table><table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-center"><table><tbody><tr><td class="wysiwyg-text-align-left"><b>About Blue Ridge Community College:</b><br><span>Blue Ridge Community College is a two-year, post-secondary institution that elevates the educational experience to prepare students for 21st-century success in the workplace or at four-year colleges and universities. Providing real-life, affordable, and accessible education, the College offers more than 200 degrees, diplomas, and certificates; more than 200 online courses; and fast-tracked job training.<br></span>Source: Blue Ridge Community College</td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:36301337-81ac-461d-8066-c5e4ad75869b2024-02-22T16:41:06-05:002024-02-22T16:41:10-05:00Summer intern housing available2024-02-22 16:41:05 -0500WNC Business<span>UNC Asheville is sharing an opportunity to help local businesses by offering Intern Housing available in the summer months. <br><br>Unfortunately, finding affordable housing is usually the barrier that prevents many interns from accepting an internship in the Asheville area. Housing is available for any undergraduate or graduate student (from any institution) doing an internship, co-op, research or educational employment in the Asheville/WNC area.<br><br>Interns need to be at least 18 years of age. Housing will be available from May 20 to August 2. The cost is $32 a night including utilities, with an option to purchase a meal plan as well as an option to purchase a fitness pass. <br><br>Learn more at C</span>onferences.UNCA.edu/Intern.<hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:f11964c6-4abd-4bac-a81a-fe3e2691ac252024-02-20T17:38:44-05:002024-02-20T17:38:51-05:00Asheville Chamber introduces PROpel AVL2024-02-20 17:38:43 -0500WNC BusinessThe Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce officially introduced PROpel AVL, the dynamic evolution of Young Professionals of Asheville. PROpel AVL is not your typical young professionals organization.<br><br><b>For young professionals:</b> PROpel AVL is your partner on the path to professional stardom. PROpel AVL is more than just a young professionals networking group; they are your dedicated partners on your professional journey. Enjoy exclusive access to top-notch workshops, mentors, and a community of fearless young professionals. The GROW Series, LEGO Coworking Days, and After Hours events are shaping up to be game-changers, providing invaluable experiences to propel your career forward.<br><p><span><strong>Get involved:</strong><br>1) Visit <a href="http://www.Ashevillechamber.org/propel" target="_blank">AshevilleChamber.org/PROpel</a> to:</span></p><ul><li>Sign up for the PROpel AVL newsletter.</li><li>Find out about upcoming events. The first GROW series is already full, so register now for the March session.</li><li>Nominate yourself, a friend, or a coworker for a young professionals award.</li></ul><p><span>2) Text <strong>#propelavl</strong> to 828-827-5332 for updates and reminders about PROpel AVL programs.</span></p><b>For employers:</b> PROpel AVL is your secret weapon to develop and empower current employees. PROpel AVL equips young professionals with the leadership qualities and professional excellence your organization craves. Connect with PROpel AVL to nurture your young professionals. Most programs are free with a Chamber membership.<ul><li><span>Share <a href="https://api-internal.weblinkconnect.com/api/Communication/Communication/2273778/click?url=http%3a%2f%2fashevillechamber.org%2fPROpelAVL_Flyer.pdf&x-tenant=AshevilleNCCOC" target="_blank">this flyer</a> with young professionals on your staff.</span></li><li><span>Nominate your employees or business contacts for a young professionals award at <a href="http://www.AshevilleChamber.org/Propel" target="_blank">AshevilleChamber.org/Propel</a>.</span></li><li><span>Have your young professionals sign up for our PROpel AVL newsletter at <a href="http://www.AshevilleChamber.org/Propel" target="_blank">AshevilleChamber.org/Propel</a></span></li><li>Encourage young professionals to sign up for text alerts about PROpel AVL programs: Tell them to text <strong>#propelavl</strong> to 828-827-5332.</li><li>Contact Leeanne Briggs at <a href="https://api-internal.weblinkconnect.com/api/Communication/Communication/2273778/click?url=mailto%3albriggs%40ashevillechamber.org&x-tenant=AshevilleNCCOC" target="_blank">LBriggs@AshevilleChamber.org</a> to find out about sponsorship opportunities.</li></ul><b>PROpel AVL Awards</b><br>The new PROpel AVL Awards honor young professionals who have distinguished themselves in their profession or as leaders along with individuals who serve as mentors to young professionals in our community. Nominations due March 31. Self nominations accepted.<p><b>Community/Public Service:</b> This award honors an individual for their involvement in the community or for public service.</p><p><b>Trailblazer: </b>This award honors an individual for outstanding leadership in their organization, industry, profession or the young professional community.</p><p><b>Innovation:</b> This award honors an individual for creativity and innovation in business.</p><p><b>Mentor:</b> This award honors an individual who serves as a mentor to young professionals in our community.</p><p><span><a href="https://api-internal.weblinkconnect.com/api/Communication/Communication/2273778/click?url=https%3a%2f%2fwww.ashevillechamber.org%2fget-engaged%2fspecial-programs%2fpropel-avl-award-nominations%2f&x-tenant=AshevilleNCCOC" target="_blank">Learn more and submit a nomination</a>.</span></p><br><br><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>urn:uuid:0afb2cb5-2f9a-41da-9858-e14a384caad82024-02-20T17:06:18-05:002024-02-20T17:06:23-05:00Smokies Life launches national search for next CEO2024-02-20 17:06:17 -0500WNC BusinessGATLINBURG, TN — Smokies Life, formerly Great Smoky Mountains Association, has launched a national search for its next Chief Executive Officer. This campaign follows a retirement announcement, made public at the end of 2023, from current CEO Laurel Rematore. <span><br><p>Respected as an innovator throughout the network of US public lands, Rematore has been a constant beacon of insight and growth for many through her involvement in the Public Lands Alliance. In the Smokies, she has championed an inclusive team culture, encouraged open communication, valued diverse perspectives, and fostered strong, collaborative relationships between all the park’s partners. Under her direction, Smokies Life’s retail, wholesale, membership, and publishing programs have flourished, enriching the visitor experience for millions.</p><p>The longtime nonprofit partner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park has retained national strategy and search firm <a href="https://potrerogroup.com/">Potrero Group</a> to facilitate the search. Smokies Life seeks a strategic, transformative leader who will work to deepen the impact of the organization and ensure its interpretive mission, retail services, publishing, and partnerships continue to grow and thrive.</p><p>Since its inception in 1953, Smokies Life has supported the preservation of GSMNP by promoting greater public understanding and appreciation of the park’s resources through education, interpretation, and research, providing retail, wholesale, and membership programs that enrich the visitor experience. The proceeds from its retail stores, publications, and programs fund the organization’s operations and allow it to give cash and in-kind donations to the park that, combined, exceed $2.8 million annually. Smokies Life’s cumulative financial assistance to GSMNP exceeded $50 million in 2023. </p><p>Smokies Life is works in close coordination with the National Park Service (NPS) and three additional partners to meet park needs: Friends of the Smokies, GSMNP’s philanthropic partner; Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, its outdoor experiential learning partner; and Discover Life in America, its science partner, managing the park’s All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory. </p><p>Information about the position and how to apply can be found online on the <a href="https://potrerogroup.com/executive-search/smokies-life-chief-executive-officer">Potrero Group website</a>. Interested candidates should apply by March 17, 2024, for priority consideration. To share recommendations or for additional information, please contact Cleveland Justis, Potrero Group Principal, at <a href="mailto:sbgsearch@potrerogroup.com">CJustis@PotreroGroup.com</a>. </p><br><b><i>About Smokies Life:</i></b><br><i>Smokies Life, formerly Great Smoky Mountains Association, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the scientific, historical, and interpretive activities of Great Smoky Mountains National Park by providing educational products and services to park visitors. </i></span><i>For more information visit </i><a href="http://www.smokieslife.org/"><i>SmokiesLife.org</i></a><i>.</i><span><br><br><b><i>About Potrero Group:</i></b><br><i>Potrero Group is honored to coordinate this search on behalf of Smokies Life. Potrero Group provides rigorous strategy, organizational effectiveness, and nuanced executive search services to organizations and leaders making a difference in the world. We are committed to equitable and inclusive practices in all of our work. For more information visit </i><a href="http://www.potrerogroup.com"><i>PotreroGroup.com</i></a><i>.</i><br><br><i>Source: Smokies Life</i><br><br></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.wncbusiness.com">WNC Business</a></small></p>