COLUMBIA — David Minnick, president of Kiswire Inc., has been honored as an Ambassador for Economic Development by the Department of Commerce as part of South Carolina’s Industry Appreciation Week.
The ceremony took place in Columbia on the grounds of the Governor’s mansion and highlighted 47 individuals from 46 counties for their exceptional efforts to bolster community and economic development activities in South Carolina.
“South Carolina is becoming the new ‘it’ state for doing business,” Gov. Nikki Haley said Tuesday in making the announcement. “And industry and local leaders are helping show the nation and the world the benefits the Palmetto State has to offer companies. Today we celebrate the local leaders who are making a difference and improving the competitiveness of their communities.”
Minnick has led Kiswire Inc. (South Korea) since it opened its first and only U.S. manufacturing facility in Newberry in 1999. Under his leadership, the plant, which produces bead wire for the tire industry, has greatly exceeded its anticipated output. Furthermore, they have never had a layoff at the operation, which employs approximately 100 people.
While Kiswire Inc. has been a long-standing and valued corporate citizen in the community, Newberry County recognizes Minnick for his more recent contributions. In January, Kiswire Inc. announced the construction of a second manufacturing facility in Newberry County.
Minnick was critical in bringing this project to fruition. His advocacy for both South Carolina and the county to corporate officials in Korea was vital to their ultimate expansion decision. This steel cord plant brings $15 million in capital investment and 30 new jobs initially.
“Economic development is a team effort, requiring input from organizations and individuals across the state. South Carolina continues to enjoy economic development successes because of the work of the individuals recognized as Ambassadors for Economic Development. They are a vital part of Team South Carolina,” said Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.
Each year the Department of Commerce joins local communities to thank businesses for their vital contributions to South Carolina’s economy. The Department of Commerce kicks off Industry Appreciation Week each year by recognizing individuals throughout South Carolina as Ambassadors for Economic Development. The individuals include local leaders from the private sector representing a variety of businesses and economic development organizations committed to securing new jobs and investment in their communities.
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