Quarterly Newsletter

cwalker@networkstn.com

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Celebrating the Land of the Free

Free enterprise has always been a big part of what makes our country great

As we continue to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, I find myself reflecting not only on our remarkable history but also on the role each one of us plays in shaping its future. As an economic developer, I have the privilege of working every day to strengthen the communities we call home. It is a profession that often happens behind the scenes. Still, its impact is visible in the businesses that open their doors, the jobs that support families, and the opportunities created for future generations.

Economic development is, at its heart, about creating opportunity. While organizations like NETWORKS are often at the center, the work we've been able to do depends on visionary leadership from our elected officials, city manager, utilities, chambers of commerce, educators, and many other community stakeholders. While roads, utilities, workforce training, and infrastructure are all important pieces of that effort, businesses – and the risk takers that create them – remain the true engine of economic growth.

Every successful business tells a story that extends beyond its own walls. Whether it is a family-owned manufacturer adding a second shift, a high-tech company choosing a new location, or a small business opening on Main Street, each investment creates jobs, supports local suppliers, generates tax revenue, and strengthens the entire community. In fact, they become part of the very fabric of the community. The ripple effects of their investments touch schools, healthcare, public safety, housing, and countless other aspects of daily life.

Those of us fortunate enough to live Where Tennessee Begins Its Business Day are at a point in time where this is easily evident. We recently celebrated Premier Transportation's expansion in Kingsport and Homeland Vinyl’s expansion in Hawkins County. Later this year, AY McDonald and Seaman Corporation will open new facilities in Bristol.

While the new project announcements receive most of the fanfare, the expansions of our existing businesses provide most of our job growth. Helping these companies expand, overcome challenges, and remain competitive is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in our economy. It is also a testament to our outstanding workforce and pro-business leadership.

Economic development is often referred to as a team sport. It truly is about partnerships. No community succeeds alone. Progress happens because local governments, educators, utilities, workforce agencies, business leaders, and citizens work together toward a shared vision. As economic developers, we often serve as a conduit – bringing people together, solving problems, and helping turn possibilities into reality. That collaborative spirit reflects one of America’s greatest strengths: when people unite around a common purpose, extraordinary things can be achieved.

One person who has understood this for longer than since I’ve known him is Sullivan County Mayor Richard Venable. He was one of the leaders who formed NETWORKS more than 20 years ago and even served as our CEO for the eight years prior to my coming to Northeast Tennessee and his reclaiming his mayoral seat. We had a chance to say thank you to Mayor Venable last week with a lunch at which we dedicated the Richard Venable Conference Room. It was a fitting honor as Richard was a master at the conference table, forming alliances and finding common ground and interests… such as economic development.

As our nation marks 250 years of independence, we celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and the power of collaboration that have defined America since its founding. Our country’s prosperity has always depended on innovators willing to take risks, businesses willing to invest, a workforce taking pride in craftsmanship and professionalism, and communities willing to nurture and embrace growth. Economic development helps ensure that tradition continues by creating environments where businesses can thrive and future generations can pursue the American Dream.

Looking ahead to our next 250 years, I am optimistic. Every new business recruited, every business expanded, every job created, every industrial property developed, and every workforce development initiative implemented represents another chapter in our story. It is an honor and a privilege for us at NETWORKS and our many partners to contribute to that work, and I can think of no better way to celebrate our nation’s milestone birthday than by helping build stronger communities, stronger businesses, and a stronger Sullivan County and America for those who will follow us.

NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership and Bristol economic development team recently welcomed representatives from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and KPMG to Bristol on June 8 as part of the review process for the 2026 TVA InvestPrep Grant Program.

The visit included tours of two strategic industrial properties and provided an opportunity for the regional economic development team to showcase ongoing efforts to strengthen Sullivan County’s inventory of development-ready industrial sites.

NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership has applied for InvestPrep funding to support site grading improvements on the approximately 22-acre Lot 2 at Partnership Park II. If awarded, the InvestPrep funds will be combined with the $1 million Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Site Development Grant previously awarded to NETWORKS, along with remaining bond proceeds designated for Partnership Park II improvements. Together, these investments will help transform the site into a competitive, market-ready industrial property capable of attracting significant private investment and high-quality job opportunities.

BTES has also submitted an InvestPrep application to fund due diligence studies for an undeveloped tract within the Bristol Industrial Park. Completing these engineering and environmental evaluations will help position the property for future industrial recruitment and accelerate development opportunities.

The site visit allowed TVA and KPMG representatives to review both projects firsthand while discussing the long-term economic development strategy for the Sullivan County and its communities. NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership and the Bristol economic development team are expected to learn the outcome of their funding applications later this summer, with grant awards anticipated in August.

These projects represent another important step toward expanding Sullivan County’s inventory of shovel-ready industrial sites and ensuring the region remains competitive for future business recruitment and investment.

Homeland Vinyl Products is continuing to invest in the future of Hawkins County with a significant expansion in Surgoinsville that will bring new jobs and economic growth to the region. The company recently announced plans to invest $5.5 million in an additional facility on Industrial Drive, creating 50 new jobs and expanding its manufacturing capabilities. The new location will support grinding operations and provide room for future production lines as demand for the company's vinyl fencing, decking, and railing products continues to grow.

This expansion marks Homeland Vinyl's third expansion in Tennessee since relocating to the state in 2015, underscoring the company's confidence in Hawkins County's skilled workforce and business-friendly environment. Beyond the direct economic impact, the project strengthens Surgoinsville's position as a growing manufacturing hub and demonstrates how local industry investments can create new opportunities for residents and support long-term community development.

TNECD Press Release

WCYB

WJHL

Premier Transportation recently celebrated the official opening of its new Tri-Cities facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Kingsport, marking a significant investment in the region and strengthening the company's presence across Northeast Tennessee.

The event, held at the company's new location at 100 Breckenridge Trace, brought together local elected officials, chamber representatives, business leaders, community members, and Premier Transportation employees to commemorate the expansion. Representatives from the Kingsport, Bristol, and Johnson City chambers participated in the ceremony, along with Kingsport Mayor Paul Montgomery and Vice Mayor Darrell Duncan.

Premier Transportation, headquartered in Knoxville, is a leading provider of charter motorcoach services for schools, athletic teams, churches, corporations, tours, and special events. The new Kingsport facility expands the company's regional footprint and enhances its ability to serve customers throughout the Tri-Cities area, Southwest Virginia, and surrounding communities.

During the ribbon-cutting celebration, guests toured the facility, viewed Premier's fleet of motorcoaches, and learned more about the company's growth plans. The new location provides additional space for operations, vehicle maintenance, employee support, and future expansion as demand for professional transportation services continues to increase throughout the region.

Company leaders emphasized that the Kingsport facility represents more than just a new building.

The expansion reflects Premier Transportation's long-standing commitment to serving Northeast Tennessee and supporting local customers with safe, reliable, and professional transportation options. The company has served the Tri-Cities market for more than two decades, and the new location allows it to operate more efficiently while reducing travel time and improving service for area clients. The expansion reinforces the Tri-Cities' reputation as a strategic location for companies looking to grow while serving customers throughout the region.

USAntibiotics recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating five years as a member of the Jackson Healthcare family of companies and reflecting on its continued role in strengthening the nation's domestic pharmaceutical supply chain.

Since joining Jackson Healthcare in 2021, USAntibiotics has continued operations at its Bristol manufacturing facility, which produces life-saving antibiotics used by millions of Americans each year. The company is the only U.S. manufacturer of Amoxicillin and Amoxicillin Clavulanate, commonly known as Amoxil and Augmentin, medications that account for more than 30% of all antibiotics prescribed annually.

The anniversary provided an opportunity for employees to celebrate the company's achievements and recognize the dedication of the workforce that supports the production of critical medications. With more than 40 years of scientific and manufacturing expertise, USAntibiotics produces millions of doses each year from its Bristol facility, helping ensure a reliable domestic source of antibiotics for patients and healthcare providers nationwide.

Jackson Healthcare acquired the facility in 2021, rescuing the nation's last authorized manufacturer of these essential antibiotics from bankruptcy and preserving a critical component of the U.S. medical supply chain. Since then, the company has continued investing in operations and expanding its ability to support the healthcare needs of communities across the country.

As USAntibiotics celebrates five years under Jackson Healthcare ownership, company leaders and employees remain focused on their shared mission of improving patient care while maintaining a dependable American-made supply of essential antibiotics. The milestone highlights both the company's rich history in Bristol and its ongoing commitment to producing quality, life-saving medications for generations to come.

Representatives from NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD), JLL, and Tri-Cities Airport recently joined forces at MRO Americas, one of the world's largest aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul trade shows, to showcase the opportunities available at the Tri-Cities Aerospace Park.

The collaborative effort highlighted the region's growing role in the aerospace industry and promoted the 160-acre, Select Tennessee Certified Aerospace Park located on the grounds of Tri-Cities Airport. Designed specifically for aviation and aerospace-related industries, the site offers direct airport access and is ideally suited for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations, aircraft support services, and advanced manufacturing projects.

The team used the event to connect with aerospace companies and industry decision-makers from across the globe. By combining local, state, and private-sector expertise, the partnership showcased Northeast Tennessee's strategic location, skilled workforce, business-friendly climate, and transportation advantages. The Aerospace Park is positioned near Interstates 81 and 26 and offers immediate access to Tri-Cities Airport's 8,000-foot runway and aviation infrastructure.

JLL, the leasing and marketing partner for the development, joined Tri-Cities Airport officials in promoting the shovel-ready site to prospective tenants and investors. The park is being marketed as an ideal location for aircraft maintenance facilities, aerospace manufacturers, conversion centers, and other aviation-related operations seeking room for expansion in the Southeast.

Participation at MRO Americas reflects a continued commitment by NETWORKS, TNECD, JLL, and Tri-Cities Airport to attract new investment and high-quality jobs to the region. As aerospace companies continue to look for strategic locations with strong infrastructure and workforce resources, leaders believe the Tri-Cities Aerospace Park is well positioned to compete for future projects and strengthen Northeast Tennessee's presence in the aviation industry.

MRO Americas 2026

Event Highlight Video

Students at Avoca Elementary School recently had the opportunity to explore a variety of careers and industries during Career Connections Week, a program designed to introduce young learners to future career possibilities through hands-on engagement with community and industry professionals.

The event brought volunteers from across the region into classrooms to share their experiences, answer questions, and help students better understand the many career paths available to them. Organizers expressed their gratitude to Avoca Elementary for hosting the program and welcoming community partners into the school.

Career Connections Week is part of the TVA Workforce Invest Grant initiative secured last year and is supported by several regional partners, including the City of Bristol Industrial Development Board, BTES, Bristol City Schools, Junior Achievement, and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. The collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to workforce development and career awareness at an early age.

The program continues to gain momentum as the Junior Achievement curriculum is introduced to students as early as kindergarten, helping build foundational skills and exposing children to real-world career opportunities long before they enter the workforce. Through classroom activities and interactions with local professionals, students are encouraged to explore their interests, develop career awareness, and begin thinking about the future.

By connecting education with industry and community leadership, Career Connections Week is helping inspire the next generation while strengthening the workforce pipeline for the Bristol region and beyond

students from across Northeast Tennessee gathered at East Tennessee State University's Mini-Dome this spring for CareerQuest Tennessee 2026, an interactive career exploration event designed to connect young people with regional employers and introduce them to high-demand career opportunities. Hosted by the First Tennessee Development District (FTDD), the event continues to serve as one of many workforce development initiatives in the region.

Middle and high school students had the opportunity to engage directly with employers, colleges, and industry professionals through hands-on exhibits, demonstrations, and interactive learning experiences. Businesses and educational institutions participated, showcasing careers in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, information technology, and construction.

Designed to help students explore career pathways early, CareerQuest Tennessee allows participants to learn about the skills, training, and education required for in-demand occupations while interacting with professionals working in those fields every day. The event creates meaningful connections between education and industry, helping students better understand the opportunities available within their own communities and identify future career interests by building awareness of local career opportunities.

WCYB

WJHL

NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership recognized Sullivan County Mayor Richard Venable for his decades of service and contribution to the organization, as one of its architects during his first stint as mayor, his eight years as NETWORKS CEO, and his support over the past 12 years as mayor. Known as a great communicator and collaborator, Mayor Venable has been instrumental in creating initiatives, forming alliances, developing properties, and building relationships that remain at the core of the NETWORKS mission.

“If you were to write a book about NETWORKS, Richard Venable would be in every chapter,” said CEO Clay Walker. “His contributions to our organization and county will be felt for decades and most all of them were launched at a conference room table, bringing together the appropriate stakeholders for a shared vision, so naming our conference room in his honor is the most fitting tribute we could offer.”

Thank you, Mayor Venable, for your vision, your leadership, and your enduring legacy of partnership and service.

NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership is pleased to welcome Colette George to our Board of Directors and Krista Morris, Bluff City Town Manager, as an Ex-Officio member. Their leadership, expertise, and commitment to the success of our region will be tremendous assets as we continue advancing economic development and expanding opportunities throughout Sullivan County and the Tri-Cities. We are excited to have them join our team and look forward to their contributions.

NETWORKS also extends its sincere appreciation to outgoing board member Tim Dean for his dedicated service and support. His insight, leadership, and commitment to our mission have been greatly valued, and we thank him for the positive impact he has made during his time on the board. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership extends its sincere gratitude and best wishes to Kelli Bourgeois as she returns to her hometown in Minnesota to begin an exciting new chapter in both her career and personal life. Kelli has been a valued partner and advocate for the City of Bristol, and we appreciate the leadership, dedication, and collaboration she has brought to our region. We wish her continued success and happiness in all that lies ahead.

At the same time, we are pleased to welcome Matt Slagle as Bristol's new City Manager. Matt is no stranger to public service, having served on the Sullivan County Commission and Bristol City Council. We look forward to working alongside Matt in his new role as he builds on the city's momentum and continues to advance the progress and opportunities that make Bristol such a great place to live, work, and do business.

Please join us in thanking Kelli for her service and welcoming Matt to the Bristol community.

NETWORKS Sullivan Partnership and its partners extend their heartfelt congratulations to Deidre Pendley on her retirement after a remarkable career dedicated to education, student success, and workforce development. As Bristol Tennessee City Schools' Director of Career and Technical Education, Deidre has been a tireless advocate for creating opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success.

Throughout her career, Deidre has championed innovative programs, strengthened connections between education and industry, and helped countless students discover pathways to rewarding careers. Her impact has been recognized across Tennessee, including receiving both the East Tennessee and Tennessee State Trailblazer Awards for her exceptional leadership in Career and Technical Education.

A respected leader, mentor, and advocate, Deidre's passion for students and commitment to her community have left a lasting mark on Bristol and the region. We are grateful for the partnerships we have shared and the positive influence she has had on workforce development efforts throughout Northeast Tennessee.

Congratulations, Deidre, on your well-earned retirement. We wish you happiness, adventure, and continued success in this exciting new chapter.

mparker@networkstn.com
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amease@networkstn.com
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