It’s hard to believe it’s already been six months since the launch of SCMC. As we look back on our first six months together, we’re proud of what we’ve achieved and excited about what comes next.
That progress was reflected this week with the release of our first Legislative Report, highlighting the major victories we helped secure this year, including Income Tax Reform, the Small Business Tax Cut of 2026, Manufacturing Property Tax Relief, the Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act, and SCDOT modernization.
These accomplishments were shared efforts. Thank you for working hand in hand with us to the keep momentum building. But we’re just getting started. Our best days are still in front of us, and we won’t take our foot off the gas. Working together, there is nothing we can’t achieve.
Read the full legislative report here.
We’ll update the report once the General Assembly passes and the governor signs this year’s state budget, so be sure to check back as we continue to advocate for policies that drive us all forward.
In This Issue
Four on Friday
1. Apply for SC Workforce and Manufacturing Summit Awards
Applications are open through August 3 for the 2026 South Carolina Workforce and Manufacturing Summit Awards! These awards honor the companies, programs, and leaders driving workforce and manufacturing across the state. Winners will be recognized at this year’s Summit, Aug. 31-Sept. 2. Apply now!
2. Take the SC Department of Transportation State Freight Plan Survey
SCDOT is updating the Statewide Freight Plan and wants input from businesses. Your feedback will help shape future investments in the state’s infrastructure. Take the survey today.
SCDOT is also seeking brief interviews with businesses to better understand supply chain trends and infrastructure needs. Companies in the following industries are encouraged to participate: automotive, aerospace, warehousing and logistics (including distribution and 3PL), metals and steel, plastics and specialty chemicals, textiles and advanced materials, package delivery, LTL and e-commerce, chemicals, lumber and forest products, paper and packaging, mining and aggregates, and agriculture. If your company is interested, contact Amy Tinsley at Amy.Tinsley@myscmc.org.
3. Calling All Manufacturers: Compensation & Benefits Survey Due July 24
The Compensation & Benefits Survey has been sent to SCMC manufacturing members. The survey collects data on compensation, benefits, pay ranges, incentives, and more across approximately 102 positions. The more companies that participate, the more valuable the results will be. The deadline to participate is July 24. If you have not received your survey link, contact Hannah Wohlman at wohlman@newportgroup.com.
4. SC Labor Force Participation Rate Surpasses Southeast Neighbors
One of the state’s most important labor indicators, the labor force participation rate, which tracks the number of people who are working or are actively seeking work, continues to rise. South Carolina now surpasses several states in the Southeast, including North Carolina, Alabama, Florida, and Kentucky. Find the SC Department of Employment and Workforce’s full employment situation report here.
Upcoming Events
SC Energy Summit | Aug. 4, 2026
SC Workforce and Manufacturing Summit | Aug. 31-Sept. 2, 2026
2026 SCMC Annual Meeting | Nov. 10-12, 2026
Member Spotlight
Aecon Strengthens North American Nuclear Fabrication Capabilities with Facility in South Carolina
Aecon announced that it has expanded its footprint in the U.S. nuclear sector with the purchase of a fabrication facility in Jackson, South Carolina – strengthening its ability to support a growing roster of nuclear projects and clients across the United States. Read more.
