James Abbott is an author, teacher, developer and consultant who has built a career making complex technical topics accessible to broader audiences. As president of Abbott Associates Inc. in Greenville, he pioneered internet education for the College of Engineering at the University of Arizona in Tucson.

A professional engineer for more than 30 years, Abbott learned early that even the best methods require clear delivery for swift and effective implementation. Inspired by the Southern storytelling tradition, he uses anecdotes about Grandma’s biscuits and grocery store visits to explain scientific concepts like queuing theory and reporting metrics.

Abbott’s hands-on approach has taken him to diverse work environments—from electric engine assembly lines to high-pressure customer care centers to third-shift IT help desks throughout the Western Hemisphere. This ground-up business learning allows him to develop methods and tools for everyone from CEOs to custodial staff.

Based in Greenville, Abbott has authored 13 books, including the best-selling “The Executive Guide to Call Center Metrics.”

Mark Allen leads Insperity’s South Carolina operations, which he opened in 2023 and grew to 126% of its budget in its first year. His track record includes building one of the company’s top-performing offices in 2019 and achieving the highest sales in the 25-year history of Insperity’s Atlanta operation that same year.

Allen has earned recognition as a five-time Chairman’s Club honoree and membership in the 2 Million Dollar Club, consistently ranking in the top 15% of sales for the Houston-based human resources services organization. He serves on the board of Grace Church, contributing his leadership experience to the community.

“Wherever you are… be all there,” Allen says, describing his approach to work and life. This philosophy of presence and intention has guided his career from his first job digging ditches at age 13 to leading business expansion across the Southeast.

A graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University with a degree in communications and radio television, Allen balances his professional pursuits with diverse interests, including his background as a surfer and music producer.

Rebecca Battle-Bryant, Ph.D., SHRM-CP, is president and owner of Battle Plan Consulting, LLC, a woman-owned human resource, workforce development and public outreach consulting firm specializing in workforce development solutions, human resource management, customized training and executive coaching.

Battle-Bryant previously served as vice president of Human Resources and Workforce Development at United Infrastructure Group; assistant executive director of Workforce & Economic Development at South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce; and vice president of Corporate Training & Economic Development at Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College.

She earned an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Auburn University, followed by a Master of Business Administration. Battle-Bryant received a doctorate in Higher Education Administration from University of South Carolina in 2009.

A keynote speaker and published author, Battle-Bryant researches teams, team communications and workforce issues. She co-authored “The Workforce Development Playbook” in partnership with South Carolina Manufacturing Partnership. Battle-Bryant is a certified economic developer, SHRM Certified Professional, DISC coach/consultant and authorized SHRM Recertification Credit Provider.

Julie Godshall Brown leads Godshall and Godshall Personnel Consultants, a 200-employee recruiting and staffing firm earning Best of Staffing recognition for six consecutive years and South Carolina Best Places to Work honors for two years.

A Clemson University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, Godshall Brown earned her master’s degree in human resources management from the University of South Carolina. She navigates economic headwinds and labor force pressures while maintaining the firm’s position among South Carolina’s larger privately owned recruiting operations.

“Don’t make your decisions based on the dollar,” she says, recalling her parents’ advice when they started the business. “Do the right thing and profits will take care of themselves.”

Her first job at Frodo’s pizza taught teamwork and stellar service, finding greater reward in recognition than modest raises.

Godshall Brown chairs Bank of Travelers Rest’s personnel committee and Bon Secours St. Francis Greenville Foundation’s philanthropy committee.

She defines success through using God-given talents to contribute beyond herself.

Nicole Burleson brings over 25 years of healthcare staffing expertise to her role as chief operating officer at Floyd Lee Locums. Since joining the Charleston-based company in April 2020, she has transformed operations and driven exponential growth, expanding the team from 21 employees to more than 93 dedicated professionals.

Before joining Floyd Lee Locums, Burleson spent 18 years at Supplemental Health Care, rising to become senior regional vice president. She managed operations across 14 division offices located in seven major markets, leading multi-million-dollar regional operations successfully.

At Floyd Lee Locums, Burleson spearheaded a large international project that expanded the company’s physician pipeline. She secured a major hospital system partnership at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling the organization to sustain and grow its teams. Under her leadership, the company established a robust leadership team and launched a successful government affairs division.

Her contributions have earned recognition from Staffing Industry Analysts and other industry organizations.

Didi Caldwell leads Global Location Strategies, a firm specializing in site selection and incentive negotiation for major industrial investments. Under her leadership, GLS recently guided Emirates Global Aluminum through a complex site selection process spanning 46 states and provinces to secure the location for EGA’s $4 billion aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma. The project will create 1,000 jobs and represents the first new primary aluminum smelter built in the United States since 1980.

Bloomberg dubbed Caldwell “America’s Factory Whisperer” in 2024, recognizing her expertise in matching companies with communities. She serves as board chair of the Site Selectors Guild, where she became the organization’s first female chair in 2018.

Caldwell holds an International M.B.A from the University of South Carolina Darla Moore School of Business and a bachelor’s degree in architecture from Clemson University. She is fluent in English and Spanish and holds dual U.S.-Australia citizenship.

“Be ready when the luck happens,” Caldwell said, describing her philosophy that success comes from preparation meeting opportunity.

Andy Carr earned a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland, launching a career spanning nearly 40 years in manufacturing. He began his career at Lucas Industries, working as a senior manufacturing systems engineer and then cell leader, then worked as a project engineer at Lockwood Greene Engineers and assembly manager at Sommer Allibert.

Carr joined the South Craolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership in 1998 as a regional vice president, serving a 10-county area in the state’s north and west. Over 24 years, he advanced through leadership roles including senior vice president of operations before being appointed president and CEO in February 2022, succeeding Chuck Spangler.

Carr holds certifications as a Lean Manufacturing Trainer and Professional Business Advisor from the National Institute of Standards and Technology.

“There is nothing more satisfying than working with a South Carolina manufacturing company to help them reduce costs, increase sales, grow profits and thrive,” Carr said.

Laura Dalziel serves as RSM for the Southeast with Malone Workforce Solutions, a national workforce solutions company supporting employers across a wide range of industries. Based in the Southeast, she leads regional business development and strategic partnerships across key growth markets, partnering with local branch teams and enterprise stakeholders to deliver workforce programs that meet real operational demands improving hiring outcomes, retention, workforce stability, and the associate experience.

Laura is known for delivering sustained year-over-year growth across the region, consistently outperforming company targets through a consultative, results-driven approach. She is also deeply involved in the communities she serves, actively participating in multiple Chambers of Commerce, SHRM chapters, and manufacturing and logistics associations across the Southeast. Through these partnerships, she connects employers with talent, supports local workforce initiatives, and helps drive sustainable growth that positively impacts businesses, individuals, and the broader community.

Dalziel’s recognitions include Charleston Leadership Circle 2025-2026, Marquis Who’s Who 2025-2027 and SC Palmetto Power: HR List 2025. “Success isn’t just about hitting goals, it’s about creating impact,” Dalziel said.

Ron Doney leads Think Up Consulting, a 39-person professional services firm focused on organizational development and human resources strategy. With a background in education, psychology and writing from Kent State University and a master’s degree in organizational management from University of Phoenix, Doney brings a multidisciplinary approach to consulting.

His leadership philosophy centers on openness. “The answer is yes — what’s the question?” Doney said, describing a mindset that encourages innovation and collaboration.

Before founding Think Up Consulting, one of Doney’s earliest roles was caring for a blind, severely autistic child and his brother — an experience that taught him creative communication and adaptability. He also served as Flash the Golden Eagle, Kent State University’s mascot, developing skills in connection and showmanship.

Doney serves as board vice president of The Warehouse Theatre and sits on the advisory board of the Upstate SC LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce. He defines success as building something that outlasts the founder, creating lasting impact for clients and team members.

Doug Van Dyke leads Leadership Simplified, a professional consulting firm dedicated to developing leaders and organizations across South Carolina and beyond. With degrees from Stetson University (BBA in Finance) and the University of North Florida (MBA), Van Dyke brings extensive experience in leadership development and business consulting to his work.

In 2025, Van Dyke established a collaboration with the University of South Carolina’s Department of Continuing Education and Conferences to offer the Leadership Simplified Boot Camp quarterly, a partnership confirmed through 2026. His approach emphasizes helping clients navigate emerging challenges, including leveraging artificial intelligence while protecting against its potential risks.

Van Dyke’s commitment to community service is evident through his current board membership with the Rotary Club of Five Points in Columbia. Previously, as president of Tampa Interbay Rotary, he spearheaded the construction of over 100 wheelchair ramps for elderly and disabled individuals. His philosophy remains clear: “Do what you say you are going to do. Stay in integrity. Treat everyone with respect, no matter what their station in life.”

Joe Erwin earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Clemson University.

He founded the Greenville Triumph in 2018, the city’s first pro soccer team, and expanded pro soccer in the Upstate Upstate with the Greenville Liberty in 2022. Erwin remains an owner of the team and continues to serve on its board

His first job scooping ice cream at Baskin-Robbins taught him a lasting lesson about customer service — that he was selling smiles and making days more joyful, not just ice cream.

Today, Erwin serves as president of Erwin Creates, leading a diversified company that operates coworking spaces and oversees the Greenville Triumph and Liberty Soccer. The organization employs approximately 60 people.

Erwin received the E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year recognition in 2004, the Upstate SC Diversity and Leadership Award in 2011 and the Clemson University Spirit Award in 2014. He serves on the Clemson University Committee on Philanthropy and defines success as “helping others to create success for themselves and those they impact.”

Shonna Felkel leads Banker Exchange as president and general counsel, guiding the qualified intermediary firm’s expansion across South Carolina, Western North Carolina and Colorado. The company provides 1031 continuing education programs for real estate, tax and legal professionals.

Felkel earned a Bachelor of Science in business finance from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 1988 and a Juris Doctor from the University of Alabama School of Law in 1994. She began her career as a private banker at First Tennessee Bank, managing relationships with high-net-worth clients.

She previously served as general counsel for Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County, restructuring its real estate and corporate departments. Felkel is a member of the American Bar Association, South Carolina Bar and Greenville County Bar, and served on the South Carolina Board of Bar Examiners.

“Getting your foot in the door is one thing, but how you walk through that door and interact with the people in the room is what makes an impact,” Felkel said.

She supports United Way of Greenville County’s Palmetto Society, Project Joy and Harvest Hope Food Bank.

Thomas Fimian established Levifi in 2002 as a Xerox Agency and has grown the organization into one of the most trusted names in the workplace technology field. Headquartered in Charleston, Fimian leads the company in serving customers across the Carolinas and Georgia, focusing on small and medium-sized businesses, nonprofits, educational institutions and local government entities.

Frustrated by cumbersome and outdated workplace technology, Fimian built Levifi around fighting for customers who deserve functional technology solutions. The company specializes in IT infrastructure and printing systems, helping organizations focus on their goals rather than dysfunctional equipment. Levifi’s white glove service approach has earned more than 1,000 5-star Google reviews.

Beyond business success, Fimian emphasizes deep community involvement throughout the Carolinas and Georgia. He believes community engagement must extend beyond charitable donations to include active participation in local initiatives, events and projects. Levifi supports numerous local nonprofit organizations and donates a percentage of profits to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, demonstrating the company’s core value of integrity.

Jennifer Floyd earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Clemson University before establishing her career in human resources. She founded and leads HR Experts on Demand, a professional consulting firm serving organizations throughout South Carolina.

Floyd received the HR Professional of the Year recognition from the Greenville Society of Human Resources Management in 2012. She has served on the board of the Greenville Society of Human Resources Management for 10 years, including as president from 2022-2023. Floyd also serves on the board of the Greenville Professional Women’s Forum, where she served as president in 2022 during her eight years with the organization.

She contributes to the community through United Way as a corporate volunteer and Young Professionals member.

Floyd approaches professional challenges with resilience. “Stop waiting for the storm to pass and learn to dance in the rain,” she said. “It impacted me as a professional to learn to make the best of the situation, even when it wasn’t what I wanted or what I expected.”

Guy Furay leads The Insurance Source as owner, celebrating 20 years in business in October 2025 while navigating a health insurance market challenged by both government action and inaction threatening system stability.

A Webster University graduate with a master’s degree in marketing and bachelor’s degrees in history and political science from the University of Missouri, Furay serves as chairman of the board for Health Agents for America. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina recognized him on its Agents Honor Council in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

“Always take care of people,” he says, recalling his father’s advice when he started his business. “If you do that, they will take care of you.”

His first job caddying at age 11 in 1979 taught him about class, perseverance, relating to different people and hard work’s importance. The experience earned him the Evans Scholarship, providing full tuition and room to the University of Missouri.

He defines success as making his corner of the world better, one person at a time.

Tad Goetcheus, PE, brings more than 37 years of environmental engineering expertise to his role leading HRP Associates, Inc. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Clarkson University in 1988, Goetcheus joined HRP as a project engineer in Connecticut.

He relocated to Greenville in 1993 as regional manager, beginning a steady rise through the company’s leadership ranks. Goetcheus was promoted to vice president in 2012 and assumed his current dual role as chief operating officer and president in 2018.

His career has focused on environmental compliance, management systems and risk management, delivering solutions across various industries. “My mission is to deliver high-quality solutions that protect the environment and support sustainable development,” Goetcheus said.

In 2022, he expanded his leadership responsibilities by taking on the role of chief operations officer for Thunderbird-HRP JV, LLC, a joint venture combining environmental engineering and construction capabilities. Goetcheus continues to guide teams in providing environmental engineering solutions from the company’s Greenville headquarters.

Mick Hunt founded Mick Unplugged as a platform for transformative coaching and motivational speaking, driven by a promise made to his mother to build a life worthy of her belief. That commitment became the foundation for his leadership philosophy and professional journey.

Hunt built and led several successful companies through periods of rapid growth and major financial exits. He has guided teams ranging from 30 to more than 1,000 people, creating environments where ideas thrive and individuals exceed their perceived limitations. His leadership approach focuses on challenging systems, pushing boundaries and setting new standards.

As a member of both the Forbes Business Council and Forbes Coaches Council, Hunt shares his strategies and vision with leaders globally. He developed The MICK Factor, an original leadership methodology built on four pillars: Mindset, Investment, Character and Keep Going.

“Leadership, to me, has never been a title — it’s a responsibility,” Hunt said. “A responsibility to leave things better than you found them, to raise others higher than yourself and to redefine what success means in the process.”

Susan Johnson, Ph.D., launched her career by starting Calibogue Kayak Company on Hilton Head Island, sparking a commitment to connecting people with nature. Johnson earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, a Master of Education from The Citadel and a doctorate from the University of South Carolina.

As president and CEO of Vimcity, LLC, Johnson leads statewide initiatives advancing workplace wellbeing and environmental stewardship. In 2025, her company launched Nature at Work, operating through the South Carolina Nature, Health & Business Group to unite employers, municipalities, higher education institutions and nonprofits around health and sustainability strategies.

Johnson serves on multiple boards including the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, Lowcountry Land Trust, Bee Cause Project and City of Charleston Wellness Advisory Council. She was named to Leadership South Carolina Class of 2025 and recognized as one of 50 Women of Impact in South Carolina.

“Build a life and career that reflect who you are—and surround yourself with people who share your sense of purpose,” Johnson said.

Robyn Knox earned a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master of Human Resource Development from Clemson University. She has built more than 25 years of human resources experience in manufacturing, developing innovative HR strategies.

Knox founded The HR Business Connect, LLC, an HR consulting, coaching and leadership development firm in the Upstate of South Carolina. She received recognition as the 2016 Greenville SHRM HR Professional of the Year and as the 2017 South Carolina HR Professional of the Year.

Knox holds certifications as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) since 2002 and as a SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). She completed a Post-Graduate Diploma in Corporate Sustainability from Furman University in 2017.

She currently serves as chair of the Greenville County Workforce Development Board and as district director for the South Carolina SHRM State Council. Knox is also a Certified Coach, Trainer and Speaker with Maxwell Leadership and a Registered Corporate Coach with the Worldwide Association of Business Coaches.

Christina Lock founded and leads Catch Talent, a 33-employee recruiting firm addressing the challenge of helping companies view hiring as more than a transactional process in an uncertain market where candidates hesitate to make career moves.

A graduate of Appalachian State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing minor, Lock built her company into an Inc. 5000 honoree in 2020 and 2021, recognized among the fastest-growing companies in the United States.

“Act as an owner,” she says, advice that shaped her career trajectory. “From the very first role I ever stepped into, I acted like it was my business.”

Her first job at Rack Room Shoes at age 15 taught her the value of customer service, a foundation that continues to guide her leadership approach.

Lock’s community engagement includes serving on multiple boards: executive committee member of Charleston Women in Tech, and board member of EO Charleston and Action Food Sales, Inc. She also founded and co-organizes DisruptHR Charleston.

Lock defines success through her impact on her two sons and community, and is passionate about mentoring female entrepreneurs.

Julia Martin serves as interim chief executive officer of Advanced Technology International, a 380-employee defense contracting and consortia management firm navigating pricing pressures amid rising labor, technology and regulatory compliance costs.

A College of Charleston graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and accounting, Martin put herself through college while working mostly full-time, demonstrating her belief that “it’s less important where you start than how you finish.”

Her leadership philosophy emphasizes efficiency and forward-thinking. “Being candid saves time – be professional but don’t be afraid to speak up and get things done,” she says. “Executives need to reserve time to think – don’t spend all your time on today’s problems.”

Martin’s first job in retail banking taught her active listening, problem-solving and management fundamentals.

Her community leadership includes serving on Charleston Southern University’s Board of Trustees as a Finance & Investments Committee member and chairing Shield Ministries’ Finance Committee. She completed the Liberty Fellowship in 2014 and serves on Agape Liberia Mission’s advisory board.

Martin defines success through using God-given talents to impact others across family, business and charitable endeavors.

Nicky McCarter leads Defender Services Inc., a facilities services company with 3,000 employees. Under his leadership, the company acquired ACI Janitorial Services in 2024.

A 1980 Clemson University graduate with a degree in administrative management, McCarter maintains deep ties to his alma mater. He serves as vice chair of the Clemson University Board of Trustees, elected by the General Assembly in 2008 and reelected in 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022.

His commitment to South Carolina earned him the state’s highest honor, the Order of the Palmetto, in 2023. Additional recognitions include the 2019 Clemson Distinguished Service Award and the 2025 Pillars of the Community Award from Clemson Fraternity and Sorority Life.

McCarter serves on numerous boards, including the Indian Waters Council Executive Board, South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame and Synovus Bank Advisory Board. “Business is built on relationships,” he says, a principle that has guided his career since his first job at a service station in Clover.

Mike Mizeur was named president and CEO of BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina effective July 1, 2022, succeeding David Pankau, who led the company for more than a decade beginning in 2010. Mizeur began his career at BlueCross in 1998 after seven years with Ernst & Young. He served in various senior leadership roles including chief financial officer for 10 years before being named chief operating officer. As COO, Mizeur was responsible for all operating areas including the BlueCross BlueShield Commercial Health Division, the Government Contracting Division operating as the Celerian group of companies and all corporate subsidiaries. This included more than 20 companies involved in health insurance services, Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and the Veterans Choice program. He says the organization’s leadership team and employees are one of the best groups of management and staff of any Blue Plan in the country.

He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Western Michigan University and a Master of Business Administration from Duke University. Mizeur has served on the South Carolina Council on Competitiveness and the Palmetto GBA board.