Industry and Workforce Appreciation Luncheon Highlights Aviation’s Role in the Lowcountry

September 30, 2026

Industry and Workforce Appreciation Luncheon Highlights Aviation’s Role in the Lowcountry 

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — Aviation’s role in economic development and workforce preparation took center stage at the Industry + Workforce Appreciation Luncheon, hosted by the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce and Dorchester County Economic Development and presented by TD Bank. 


Under the theme “Above + Beyond,” the luncheon explored how airport growth, industry partnerships and education can support the Lowcountry’s aviation sector and create opportunities for businesses and workers. 

Moderated by Marshall Connor of Trident Technical College, the aviation panel featured Dorchester County Administrator Jason Ward; Charleston International Airport CEO Elliott Summey; Charleston Southern University’s Aeronautics Professor Lloyd Richardson; and Senior Project Manager at the SC Department of Commerce Philip Morgan. 


The discussion examined the importance of airport access to companies’ operations, including connections to customers, suppliers, corporate headquarters and employees. Ward’s portion of the discussion focused on airport expansion as an economic development asset and how expanded private aviation facilities could help attract companies that depend on convenient air travel. 

Summey’s discussion addressed opportunities associated with commercial airport expansion beyond passenger travel, including cargo, logistics, aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Morgan’s portion explored how increased connectivity could benefit existing manufacturers and suppliers, opportunities for smaller manufacturers to enter aerospace and advanced manufacturing supply chains, and efforts to strengthen domestic supply chains. 


Workforce preparation was another central topic. Richardson and Summey addressed aviation career pathways for students entering the industry from high school or technical college, connecting the discussion of industry growth with the education and training needed to support it. 

Attendees also experienced a virtual flight simulator used by Charleston Southern University to help flight students practice aircraft startup and flight procedures without incurring aircraft fuel costs. The simulator offers multiple aircraft models and geographic environments, giving attendees a firsthand look at a tool used in aviation education. 


The luncheon’s keynote speaker was the Honorable Thomas Carter, former U.S. representative to the International Civil Aviation Organization. 

The event connected aviation development with the businesses, educational institutions and workforce that will help shape the industry’s future in the Lowcountry. 

Thank you, Patrick Savage, with BuildWORKS Marketing, for the photos!

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