Why did Volvo choose Charleston?

Charleston has received many accolades as a tourist destination but what drove Volvo (pun intended) to select it for their first US manufacturing plant? Lex Kerssemakers, CEO of Volvo Cars North America, stated that the overseas accessibility to the Port of Charleston, the qualified workforce base, and the experience of the state’s industrial recruiters were the major reasons in determining this $500 million investment. While abundant sunshine and palm trees are nice, it’s these influential factors that are causing companies like Volvo, Daimler, and Boeing to call Charleston home.

The Charleston industrial real estate landscape will soon be welcoming more suppliers and further supplanting the region as a hub for large commercial activity. The nearby Berkeley county land site chosen by Volvo is located close to Interstate 26 and within 30 miles of the Port of Charleston. What was once a field of pine trees will soon have a new rail line built for Volvo and a pool of talented workers which could number up to 4000 jobs by 2030.

Volvo’s move to Charleston has answered one big question while simultaneously supplying another: Is the Charleston industrial market able to attract major manufacturing? A resounding “Yes!” And the intriguing question it raises is — “Who’s next?”

Happy 21st birthday to my niece (AKA – Big East Womens Lacrosse Defensive Player of the Year!)

Excuse my “family brag” but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the award my lovely niece, Lauren Kwasnowski, received last week. Also, a belated “Happy Birthday!”

A big week for Lauren as she turned 21, and was also named the Big East’s Defensive Player of the Year. If her name is familiar to my blog readers, you’re not mistaken as I profiled her last year when she was named first team All-American. UCONN had a great year but unfortunately lost to Florida in the finals last week and therefore will not be playing in the upcoming NCAA Championship.

The good news of that is Lauren is now free to go out and celebrate her accomplishments legally with a cold brew or two. But first she said she has to get through her finals, then she will go out and celebrate. Good for you Lauren for having your priorities straight and I look forward to buying you a belated birthday beer soon!