The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development will host the 2013 Industrial Executives Forum on Thursday, April 18th at Blue Ridge Community College’s Technology, Education and Development Center. Registration and networking will begin at 8:30 am, and the program will conclude at 11:00 am.

Pete Szelwach, Chair of the Existing Industry Committee, will kickoff this year’s event with a brief follow-up to the 2012 forum. Szelwach will update forum attendees on efforts to connect Henderson County industry with work-based learning opportunities in partnership with the Henderson County Public School System and Blue Ridge Community College.  Following this brief overview the Partnership has assembled two outstanding panel discussions. Topics will include 1) Retaining Top Talent and Attracting your Future Workforce, and 2) Succession Planning & Exit Strategies.  Both panels will have representation from large manufacturers, small manufacturers, as well as perspectives outside of the industrial sector.

The Industrial Executives Forum began in 2006, as a means to build and solidify the network of industrial companies operating in Henderson County. Through the years, the event has evolved into a platform for industrial leaders and community stakeholders to identify and address issues which impact the local business climate.  The Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development is thankful for the support of the Existing Industry Committee who volunteers time and energy each year to develop and build this program.  Members of the committee include:

Jim Clarke, Manual Woodworkers & Weavers
Bill Harris, IMOCO
Mark Morse, SELEE Corporation
Steve Racher, BorgWarner
Doug Salkewicz, Advanced Technical Welding
Steve Sheppard, Blue Ridge Metals
Pete Szelwach, Clement Pappas

As the event draws closer please be on the lookout for more details about this year’s program, and registration information. For more information contact Josh Hallingse at [email protected] or (828) 692-6373.