Forward Rowan: Prosperity Through Progress

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Alisa Stone, the dynamic leader of Macy’s new Customer Fulfillment Center in China Grove, North Carolina. With a rich career leading operations at Walmart, Gap Inc., and Target, Alisa shares what brought her full circle back to Macy’s and why this project is more than just a facility — it’s a homecoming. We dive into her leadership philosophy, the inclusive workplace culture she’s building from the ground up, and what made Rowan County the perfect place for this game-changing investment. Alisa also opens up about her personal values (Nana, water enthusiast, perpetual learner), why she chose to live in the community she serves, and what she looks for in future Macy’s team members.

In this episode, we’re joined by Greg Edds, a community champion and a seasoned leader with over 40 years of experience in business and community engagement. As a State Farm agent in Salisbury since 1995 and a longtime advocate for economic development, Greg has earned top industry accolades and brought a “Good Neighbor” spirit to every aspect of his work. He’s also a dedicated civic leader who served as Chairman of the Rowan County Chamber of Commerce Board in 2013 and has been instrumental in shaping Rowan County’s growth as a County Commissioner for over a decade. Greg shares his insights on how the tide has turned for Rowan County’s economy over the past 10 years, how the county’s proactive approach to economic development has paid off, and the key role of partnerships in achieving these wins. We also dive into some of Greg’s favorite stories from Rowan’s growth journey and what he hopes business prospects take away when they visit the community. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about vision, collaboration, and what it takes to make a community thrive.

In this episode of Forward Rowan: Prosperity Through Progress, Rowan EDC President Rod Crider sits down with Chris Skibinski, Managing Director of Avison Young’s Charlotte office and a nationally recognized expert in industrial commercial real estate. With over $1 billion in transactions across manufacturing, R&D, and logistics facilities, Chris brings unmatched insight into what drives successful site selection and development in today’s competitive market. From major projects like New Belgium Brewery’s East Coast expansion to Pfizer’s R&D campus sale, Chris shares lessons learned from high-profile deals and what communities like Rowan County can do to stand out. We explore key trends shaping industrial development in the Charlotte region and beyond—including the growing importance of speed-to-market, speculative buildings, and workforce initiatives. Whether you’re an economic development professional, site consultant, business leader, or just curious about what’s driving growth in Rowan County, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🔗 Watch now and subscribe for more episodes highlighting Rowan County’s momentum in business and industry. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Amazon Music, or your favorite platform. Learn more at www.RowanEDC.com

In the latest episode of Forward Rowan: Prosperity Through Progress, we sit down with Cindy Santiago, Senior HR Manager at Henkel, to talk about her relocation journey, Henkel’s continued growth in Rowan County, and what it takes to attract top-tier talent in today’s workforce. With over 17 years in HR and a recent move from Florida to North Carolina, Cindy offers a unique perspective on transitioning both professionally and personally to Rowan County. Cindy shares what makes Henkel an outstanding employer—from its inclusive culture and robust career pathways to the advanced production facility supporting its Adhesive Technologies division. She discusses what types of skills Henkel looks for when hiring and highlights how their Salisbury site plays a strategic role in the company’s North American operations. We also explore Henkel’s commitment to community involvement and workforce development, including its ongoing partnership with the Rowan EDC. Whether you're a job seeker, employer, or someone considering a move to our area, this episode offers valuable insights into what makes Rowan County and employers like Henkel a great place to build a career—and a life.

In the next episode of Forward Rowan: Prosperity Through Progress, host Carlotta Ungaro, Forward Rowan 2 Campaign Director, sits down with Steve Fisher, President of F&M Bank, to discuss the vision and impact of the Forward Rowan 2 campaign.As a longtime investor and campaign cabinet co-chair, Fisher has played a key role in shaping Rowan County’s economic trajectory. In this episode, he shares insights into how the first Forward Rowan campaign exceeded expectations—bringing in over $1 billion in capital investment and over 2,800 new jobs—and why Forward Rowan 2 is poised to push that momentum even further.From the importance of local investment and public-private partnerships to how economic growth benefits businesses, families, and individuals, this conversation explores why now is the time to double down on Rowan County’s future.Tune in to hear why business leaders and investors should be a part of this transformative initiative and what success could look like in the next five years. Forward Rowan 2 is more than a campaign - it’s a commitment to lasting prosperity.

The Forward Rowan podcast has officially launched, offering a new platform to explore the businesses, industries, and leaders shaping Rowan County’s economic future. Through engaging conversations, this series provides valuable insights into innovation, resilience, and opportunities driving local growth. Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or community member, this podcast offers valuable perspectives on the forces propelling Rowan County forward.The debut episode, “Industries on the Rise,” features host Kendall Henderson, Director of Business Services at Rowan EDC, speaking with Nick Sanchez, co-owner of GLR Kitchen and Bath Design. Originally founded in 1935 as Brown Cabinet Company, GLR was revitalized in 2021 by Nick and his wife, Samantha, transforming it into a modern, full-service remodeling company.Listeners will hear about GLR’s journey, its deep community ties, and how it contributes to Rowan County’s economic vitality. Nick shares insights on craftsmanship, innovation, and the challenges and opportunities in the remodeling industry.Tune in to “Industries on the Rise” and discover how local businesses are shaping the future of Rowan County!