Projects, people and happenings

The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce is a vital link in the chain of local businesses working together to improve, enhance, and connect the Greater Charleston Area. SeamonWhiteside + Associates has been involved with a number of Chamber activities and initiatives over the years including the Developers Council, Leadership Charleston, and the Total Resource Campaign membership drive. Stuart Whiteside, Vice President of SW+A is an active member of the Executive Committee and holds the position of Public Policy Vice Chairman.

During the week of June 13-16, SeamonWhiteside + Associates’ Mount Pleasant headquarters participated with The Education Foundation, an initiative of the Chamber of Commerce, by hosting a practicum site for the Workplace InStitute for Educators (WISE). The goal of WISE educators is to gather ‘real world’ information about a variety of business types and then bring that information back to the classroom to educate students as to what they can expect when they enter the workforce and what they need to do to get ready.

SW+A staff from Engineering, Land Planning, Urban Design, Landscape Architecture, IT, Due Diligence, Permit Coordination, Administration, and the Marketing department met with educator Michelle Schanon-Dovey to discuss the particulars of each specialty and how it relates to and supports the company as a whole. As with most educational activities, the experience was a collaborative effort, which grew with each interview. The principle of “Teach to Learn” was certainly in play throughout the week as Michelle’s questions encouraged an in-depth look at not just how we do our jobs, but why and with which skills.

SW+A would like to thank the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce for the opportunity to join in helping prepare the next generation of professionals and for its commitment to education.