Susie Shannon, President and CEO of the South Carolina Council on Competitiveness, has been recognized by Columbia Business Monthly as one of its 50 Most Influential People for 2017. This annual list honors individuals from throughout the Midlands region who have been identified as leaders in industry, government, and business.

As President and CEO of the Council, Shannon leads initiatives that support industry clusters that advance South Carolina’s long-term economic competitiveness.

During her first six months at the helm, the Council added new schools to its TransformSC education initiative and helped to launch an aerospace curriculum in select high schools.

Shannon said that much of her success can be attributed to the state’s rapidly growing business climate and being part of coalition of people who are dedicated to promoting South Carolina as a place where businesses can grow and thrive.

“South Carolina is increasingly competitive on the world-stage as a place to do business. It is an exciting time to be working with people who are so passionate in their support of state-wide industries.”

In 2018, the Council will expand on its success and lead an aggressive K-12 marketing campaign to promote careers in aerospace and open up new opportunities in the logistics industry.

In addition to her work at the Council, Shannon is actively engaged in the community.  Her involvement includes the Strategic Partnership Group for Department of Commerce Coordinating Council for Workforce Development, the EPSCoR State Committee, and the Central Carolina Community Foundation Board of Directors.