Effingham County Industrial Development Authority Hosts Kickoff Meeting for Newly Formed Effingham Industry Group

October 11, 2024

RINCON, GA – The Effingham County Industrial Development Authority (ECIDA) recently hosted the kickoff meeting for the newly formed Effingham Industry Group (EIG), an initiative designed to provide comprehensive support services for local industrial businesses. The inaugural event took place on September 25 at Estes Express Lines in Rincon, GA, and brought together industrial business leaders for a roundtable discussion focused on “Retaining Top Talent.”

Moderated by Maria Whitfield, Director of Workforce for the Savannah JDA, the panel featured industry experts Marqueshia Henry, Human Resources Manager at Great Dane; Tim Bailey, General Manager of Webstaurant; and Lily Gibbons, Recruiting Manager at The Sack Company. The discussion explored various strategies that industrial companies can use to attract and retain top employees, with topics ranging from competitive compensation packages to the role of company culture and social media engagement.

“Retaining talent requires more than just offering a paycheck,” Whitfield said. “It’s about creating a workplace where employees feel valued, connected, and part of something meaningful.”

Henry highlighted the progress Great Dane has made in improving brand reputation and training, while Bailey discussed effective compensation models. Gibbons shared insights on the importance of communication and professional development to both recruit and retain talent in the industrial sector.

This kickoff meeting for the EIG provided a valuable platform for industrial business leaders to exchange ideas and collaborate on addressing workforce challenges. Established in partnership with the Regional Industry Support Enterprise (RISE), the EIG will host quarterly meetings featuring keynote speakers, expert panels, and roundtable discussions to tackle the evolving needs of Effingham County’s industrial sector.

Jessica Hood, Vice President of the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, commented on the broader impact of the EIG’s mission: “Our partnership with the newly formed RISE allows us to offer programming and support to our existing industries that we hope will allow them to thrive and prosper in our community.”

About the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority:

The Effingham County Industrial Development Authority works to create sustainable economic development opportunities for the community by facilitating the growth of existing businesses and attracting new industries. Through partnerships with local and regional organizations, the Authority aims to strengthen the local economy, providing long-term benefits for businesses and residents alike.