Floyd joins S.C. Port Ambassador Program to advance economic development in Sumter, beyond

Austin Floyd of Sumter has been selected as a member of the 2024-25 South Carolina Port Ambassador Program, an economic development initiative designed to provide a holistic understanding of the interconnectedness of commerce, land, air, rail, water and industry across the state and surrounding region.

South Carolina's ports play a vital role in the economic health of Sumter and the broader Midlands region, serving as a gateway for commerce and job creation. As one of 30 statewide professionals in this year's program, Floyd will gain firsthand knowledge of port operations, logistics and infrastructure investments that impact businesses and industries throughout the state.

"South Carolina's ports are a driving force in economic growth, supporting 1 in 9 jobs statewide," said S.C. Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin. "We are thrilled to have dedicated leaders participating in the Port Ambassador Program to bring valuable insights back to their communities."

Throughout the year, Floyd and fellow ambassadors will engage in immersive learning experiences, including site visits to Wando Welch Terminal in Mount Pleasant, Inland Ports Greer and Dillon and key port-dependent industries. These experiences will deepen their understanding of how South Carolina's logistics network fuels regional development, workforce expansion and global trade competitiveness.

Floyd's participation in the program aligns with his commitment to advancing economic and workforce development in Sumter and the surrounding region. With expertise in education, workforce training and economic affairs, he will leverage his knowledge to support local businesses, advocate for strategic investments and benefit from the rich resources in Sumter, Lee, Kershaw and Richland counties.

"With an $86 billion economic impact, we have to leverage our location, workforce readiness and the industries to spur good growth in this region. I'm grateful to Rep. David Weeks for granting me the opportunity. I've been able to initiate solid relationships with leaders across the state. I hope to use the knowledge gained to continually uplift my community," he said.

The Charleston Port is the fourth-largest on the East Coast, handling millions of containers annually that transport our most essential personal and industrial goods. South Carolina Ports continues to invest in infrastructure, expanding its capacity to support businesses that rely on efficient transportation and supply chain networks. For more information about South Carolina Ports and its Ambassador Program, visit scspa.com.