If you’ve decided to bring your company to our area, we’ll be there to work with you through the entire process, helping you access the information and resources you need. If you’re already doing business here, bring us your challenges, and we’ll identify resources and programs that can enhance your opportunities for success.
“In this world of give and take, there aren’t enough people willing to give what it takes.” – Lt. Clebe McClary, USMC, Ret.
Will considers himself “really good” at Dad Jokes, his coworkers agree occasionally, but his sons disagree. When he’s not working, he can be found doing one of his many hobbies like hunting, fishing, golf, running or spending time with his family. Most people would never guess that he played center on his high school football team.
After 25 years in economic development, with 12 of those years serving the counties of Western SC, Will’s passion for making people and places better is quite evident. During his career, he has been involved in the recruitment of over 4000 jobs and $2.7 billion in capital investment from companies including many in our region such as Bridgestone, Kimberly Clark, Generac, Rolls Royce, and AmbioPharm.
A native of South Carolina, having grown up in Georgetown, and attended The Citadel, Will’s education and experiences have helped him become a better economic developer. He spent 8 years in manufacturing before beginning his economic development career, which has given him the perspective to not only understand the numbers and motivations behind expansions and relocations, but the ability to relate to manufacturers Western SC works with.
In addition to the many local leadership roles he holds, Will holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from The Citadel. He is also a South Carolina Certified Economic Developer and is recognized as an Economic Development Master Practitioner by a regional consortium of universities. Will has been recognized twice by his peers, first in 2017, the South Carolina Economic Developers Association recognized him as their Local Developer of the Year, and then in 2021 he was recognized by Consultant Connect as one of the Top 50 Economic Developers in North America.
Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up! -Brene Brown
Around the office we like to say TD keeps the money straight, and all of us out of orange! When she’s not keeping the office in line, she’s off on an adventure. Theresa enjoys the outdoors, whether she’s hiking, biking, boating, fishing, gardening, or taking a stroll with her pups. She has a deep passion for living life to the fullest and will flip a coin to choose which adventure to take off on next.
Theresa’s passion for business, accounting, and continued education lead her to Western SC, where she says the best part of her job is supporting the Western SC team. People have complimented her on her attention to detail, which has made her a vital part of EDP.
Following a 19-year career in medical, Theresa followed her passion for improving herself through education and completed her accounting degree through Aiken Technical College. Since joining Western SC in 2016, Theresa has found ways to fuel her passion for continued education through working with our technical colleges to keep local manufacturers informed of relevant course and training, as well as managing the business operations for both EDP and our affiliate Applied Research Center.
Theresa is a native of Aiken, SC growing up in the nearby Batesburg and Ridge Spring area. Theresa is a member of Cedar Creek West Campus and enjoys participating in any area her talents can be utilized. Her and husband, Michael, have one daughter, and two Boston Terriers.
“If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything”-Mark Twain
Kell is an accomplished pastel portrait artist specializing in both children and pet portraiture. He is also an amateur guitarist and could easily teach a graduate level course on the life and music of Led Zeppelin founder, Jimmy Page.
Over two decades of experience in Economic Development and Local Government Management which has prepared him for his role of Existing Industry Director. On a daily basis he assists existing Industry bridge gaps through coordination with service providers, local and state officials. Placing results over rhetoric, Kell strives to enhance quality of life of the communities he serves through unwavering dedication.
Kell has been a full time Economic Development professional since 2008 working a wide variety of projects in many different Counties and Municipalities. Before joining Western SC in March of 2022, he served the counties of SouthernCarolina Alliance for over a decade. During which time he assisted in the recruitment of hundreds of new jobs and millions of dollars in capital investment.
“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door” –Milton Berle
Amy has always had a passion for creativity and enjoys bringing her ideas to life through painting, sewing, and a variety of arts and crafts. When she’s not working on her latest project, she can often be found in the garden, preserving homegrown produce, or planning her next adventure. Whether exploring a small town in South Carolina, traveling across the country, or discovering somewhere new around the world, Amy enjoys seeing new places and all they have to offer.
Amy began her career in the engineering and architecture fields, where she developed a strong foundation in technical design, planning, and project coordination. She later broadened her skills by working alongside building contractors, gaining firsthand insight into the construction industry, and the process of bringing projects from concept to completion.
Her diverse background has given her a unique perspective on the industries that help communities grow. As Project Coordinator at Western SC, Amy combines her technical knowledge, creative problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the trades to support economic development initiatives throughout the region.
Born and raised in Aiken County, Amy ventured west as an adult, spending seven years in Wyoming before returning to her roots. While her time out West broadened her perspective, South Carolina always felt like home. Today, she is proud to bring her skills and knowledge back to the region that shaped her, contributing to its continued growth and success.
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…”
― Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You’ll Go!
Madison is happiest when she has something to look forward to, whether that’s a Clemson football game, a shopping trip, or a weekend spent exploring somewhere new. She loves spending time with her family and twin nieces and is rarely far from her three cats. She’s also a big fan of true crime, history, and keeping up with pop culture. With that said, there’s a good chance she always has a new rabbit hole she’s fallen into.
Madison’s path to marketing and communication took a few turns before bringing her back home. She began college at the College of Charleston, where she spent three semesters studying Political Science before returning to Aiken and earning her Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a cognate in Integrated Marketing from the University of South Carolina Aiken.
Before joining Western SC Economic Development Partnership, Madison gained experience in both marketing and customer service. As a Social Media Intern with the SRS Community Reuse Organization, she created and scheduled content, managed social media calendars, helped maintain websites, and supported community events and regional initiatives. She also spent two years serving at Mellow Mushroom in Aiken, where she developed a love for meeting and connecting with people from all walks of life.
In her new role as Marketing & Investor Relations Coordinator, Madison is excited to combine her background in communication and marketing with her love of the Aiken community. She looks forward to meeting more of the people and businesses that make Western South Carolina such a great place to live, work, and grow.