Southwire’s facility in Huntersville, N.C., received the first-ever Inspire Our Future Award from the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce and Education Collaborative.

On Feb. 20, the chamber hosted an Education Power Luncheon to recognize employers and supporters of education within the community and all members were invited and encouraged to attend.

The Huntersville Plant partners with the Lake Norman School System in many ways, including student mentorships, sponsoring initiatives, educational plant tours, hosting an annual Back to School giveaway and more.

Melinda Bales, Huntersville mayor pro tem and co-chair of the Lake Norman Education Collaborative, said that Southwire has had a long-term relationship in supporting the Lake Norman Education Collaborative and its community. This year, the Inspire Our Future Award was created to recognize a local business that has made a difference in the area of education over the last year. 

“Having a community partner like Southwire helps us draw attention to the career opportunities that await students as they transition into the workforce,” said Bales. “The partnership also helps us inform our educators on those same opportunities. I could not think of a more deserving business to receive our very first Inspire Our Future Award.”

Jasmine Monet, Huntersville’s HR specialist, explained that it is important for Southwire to help educate the youth about all career opportunities that Southwire has to offer. By doing this, it is encouraging students to stay in school and receive their diplomas, so they can have better opportunities for a career after graduation. 

“Many kids in this area drop out of high school because they do them not see college in their future and, therefore, do not think they have a chance at a career,” said Monet. “We want to encourage them to stay in high school and work toward their diplomas because it’s our chance to show them that they can still have opportunities if they see it through.”

According to Chris McGill, plant manager, it is important for Southwire to encourage any and all students within their communities because it will help the individuals, Southwire and the future of the manufacturing industry.

 “For us, it’s about building goodwill in the community and supporting kids from all different backgrounds. We want to be inclusive of everyone, regardless of their socio-economic position,” said McGill. “By doing this, we are building Southwire’s workforce of tomorrow and giving them a chance to be successful.”