USCA's new council promotes regional collaboration and leads innovation, economic and workforce development in CSRA

USCA has assembled a group of thought leaders and influencers from private industry, government and academia across the state to form a new advisory group, which will help the university develop curricula, engaging programs and partnerships and dynamic experiences which will prepare the next generation workforce to meet current and anticipated regional demands.

“The launch of the USCA Innovation, Economic and Workforce Development Council represents a pivotal step in strengthening the university's role as a leader and driver of regional growth and a catalyst for propelling South Carolina’s future,” said Dr. Daniel Heimmermann, chancellor.

“By bringing together leaders from business, industry, government, and the university, we are creating a powerful advisory body that will help align our research, innovation, and workforce initiatives with the evolving needs of our state and region. This council will ensure that USCA remains at the forefront of fostering innovation ecosystems, expanding strategic partnerships, and generating meaningful economic impact.” 

The group is expected to connect the university with local industries, entrepreneurs, Department of Energy, Department of War and government partners to promote innovation, commercialization, and institutional growth. Additionally, they will drive regional economic growth and provide guidance to university leadership on enhancing connectivity, innovation technology transfer, and workforce development. 

The membership will accomplish this by providing strategic guidance; supporting programs that attract investment, create startups, and strengthen the region’s competitiveness; and building partnerships with businesses to expand internships, applied research, and technology commercialization opportunities. They are expected to oversee and advise on incubators, accelerators, venture creation programs and on state or regional innovation policy. The group’s collective network will benefit through advocacy efforts focused on university-led economic and workforce initiatives.

The chancellor invited corporate and academic leaders, military officers, governmental representatives and elected officials to be part of the council.

"South Carolina, especially the Midlands region, has the assets to lead America’s next wave of AI and cybersecurity deployment. I’m proud to serve on the USCA Innovation and Economic Advisory Council and to partner with Chancellor Heimmermann to accelerate this national priority,” said Al Ridilla, chief executive officer, AGY Corporation.

Innovation and Economic and Workforce Development Council members include:
Sen. Tom Young, honorary chair
Teresa Haas, Chair Aiken County Commission on Higher Education 
Stuart Bedenbaugh, Aiken City Manager 
Dave Brendza, Vice President and General Manager, ADP Augusta Division
Gary Bunker, Chair, Aiken County Council
Jim Clifford, North Augusta City Manager
Lucy Duncan, President and CEO Safe Ports
Maj. Gen. Les Eisner, US Army, Retired, Special Assistant to the chancellor
Rep. Charlie Hartz, ex-officio
Bill Kirkland, South Carolina Research Authority
Jeremy Leong, director, Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative 
Dr. Scott McKay, Dean of USCA College of Sciences & Engineering
Vice Adm. Charles Munns, US Navy retired
Cristina Paredes, Executive Director, SC Nexus
Al Ridilla, President and CEO AGY Holding Corporation 
Brig. Gen. Linda Riedel, South Carolina National Guard 
Mitch Smith, South Carolina Research Authority
Dr. Liz Stewart, Chair, Aiken Partnership Board 
Rep. Bill Taylor, ex-officio
Jim Tunison, President, Aiken Chamber of Commerce
Will Williams, President and CEO, Western SC Economic Development Partnership 

“I am grateful for the distinguished leaders who are joining us in this work and look forward to the transformational progress we will achieve together,” Heimmermann said.

For more information, contact us at news@usca.edu.