John Gibart was recently honored as an
Ambassador for Economic Development by
the Department of Commerce and legislative
leaders as part of South Carolina’s 20th Annual
Industry Appreciation Week.
The ceremony took place in Columbia on
Tuesday, January 25 at the Statehouse and
highlighted 47 individuals from 46 counties
for their exceptional efforts to bolster community
and economic development activities in
South Carolina.
“Secretary Hitt and I have one very clear
focus – to make our state the best and most
competitive in the country for business development.
‘Can’t’isn’t an option for us. But
we can’t do it alone. We need partners across
South Carolina to grow the businesses we
have, recruit new ones and help put our people
back to work, and that’s what today is all
about,” said Gov. Nikki Haley.
Gibart is a member of the Lee County Economic
Development Alliance and has been integral
in promoting Lee County. As a member
of the Alliance board, he is a strong advocate
for economic development.
His experience as a small manufacturer
enables him to provide valuable insight and
perspective. Gibart oversaw the up-fit and renovation
of the former National Guard Armory
Building into the current home for Carolina
Metal Finishing.
Since 2007, the fledgling company has
grown, adding approximately 30 employees.
More importantly, Carolina Metal Finishing’s
parent company is currently exploring the
possibility of purchasing an adjacent building
for up-fit for a new production line and the ad-
dition of at least 20 jobs.
“Serving as examples of economic success,
our state’s existing businesses are one of our
most valuable economic development tools,”
state House Speaker Bobby Harrell said.
“These private sector leaders are at the frontlines
of job creation and industry promotion
for South Carolina and they do more for our
economy than government can ever contribute.
Our Ambassadors for Economic Development
serve as a true asset to our state and deserve
real credit for their leadership.”
“The health of our state’s economy hinges
on the important contributions made by business
leaders and entrepreneurs throughout
South Carolina. Whether it is bringing more
capital investment and jobs to our state or
supporting initiatives that bolster economic activities
in communities, these ambassadors are
committed to improving economic opportunities
for all South Carolinians. We congratulate
each Ambassador for Economic Development
and thank them for their efforts,” said Bobby
Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.
Each year the Department of Commerce
joins local communities to thank businesses
for their vital contributions to South Carolina’s
economy. The Department of Commerce
kicks off Industry Appreciation Week each
year by recognizing individuals throughout
South Carolina as Ambassadors for Economic
Development. These individuals include local
leaders from the private sector representing a
variety of businesses and economic development
organizations committed to securing new
jobs and investment in their communities.