Approximately 1 mile west of the the intersection of E. Peach Raod and Cook Road
For Immediate Release Contact: Kara Borie, S.C. Dept. of Commerce, 803.737.1998 COLUMBIA, S.C. – September 15, 2008 – Jonathan Balfour was honored as Ambassadors for Economic Development by Gov. Mark Sanford and the Department of Commerce as part of South Carolina’s 18th Annual Industry Appreciation Week. The ceremony took place in Columbia on Monday, September 15 at the Governor’s Mansion Complex and highlighted 49 individuals from 46 counties for their exceptional efforts to bolster community and economic development activities in South Carolina. “From day one, we have been committed to bettering the business environment to encourage economic growth among existing business and attract new investments to South Carolina. Fundamental reforms like workers’ comp reform, tort reform and income tax relief have increased our state’s competitive edge and provided fertile ground for businesses to grow, invest and create jobs here. Our state’s successes could not be achieved without the help and efforts of community and business leaders in every corner of the state and today we say thank to these ambassadors for economic development for their efforts to create jobs and economic opportunity in South Carolina,” said Gov. Mark Sanford. Jonathan Balfour serves as president of Elite Electronic Systems USA, which opened in Winnsboro in April 2006. The company is a contract electronics manufacturer that provides full turn-key contract manufacturing services. The Winnsboro facility manufactures control panels and cabling assemblies for Caterpillar® in Newberry. Since opening, the company has grown to 50 employees under Mr. Balfour’s leadership. Elite Electronic Systems USA works closely with various workforce partners in the region and has just recently completed WorkKeys® profiling for several of its critical positions. In June 2007, the Midlands Workforce Development Board awarded the James P. Armstrong Partnership Award to Elite Electronic Systems USA for the company’s dedication to meeting the employment and training needs of the Midlands workforce. “Businesses small and large have contributed greatly to South Carolina’s economy with investments, job creation and community involvement. This is a week to recognize the contributions of businesses, industries and community leaders for their continued commitment to growing economic opportunity in South Carolina. These ambassador’s have given their energy above and beyond to enhance our communities and make South Carolina a better place to live and work,” said Joe Taylor, Secretary of Commerce. Each year the Department of Commerce joins local communities to thank business and industry for its vital contributions to South Carolina’s economy. The Department of Commerce kicks off Industry Appreciation Week each year by recognizing Ambassadors for Economic Development. These individuals include local leaders from the private sector representing a variety of businesses and economic development organizations committed to securing new jobs and investment in their communities.