05/20/2026
Session 3 of L.E.A.D. Bolivar focused on Community & Economic Development, Workforce Connection, and the leadership it takes to move communities forward.
A huge thank you to our incredible speakers who helped lead meaningful conversations throughout the morning:
• Mitzi Woods, Workforce Director, South Delta Planning and Development District
• Stevie Phillips, Senior Economic Development Representative, Cooperative Energy
• Gabby McNabb, Business Expansion and Retention, Entergy Mississippi
Each speaker brought a different perspective on how partnerships, infrastructure, workforce development, utilities, site readiness, and long-term planning all play a role in creating opportunities across Bolivar County and the Delta. Discussions throughout the morning centered not only on economic development, but also on leadership, collaboration, and the importance of investing in communities for long-term growth.
The afternoon gave the class an opportunity to see leadership in action through visits with local industry and workforce leaders. At Quality Steel Corporation, Lynn Hardin shared the company’s history, workplace culture, and the leadership principles that have contributed to its long-term success as a multi-generational family-owned business.
L.E.A.D. Bolivar class member Jared Moseley, Plant Manager at Quality Steel, also gave the class a firsthand look at the company’s operations through a tour of the facility and production line, allowing participants to see the scale of operations, workforce coordination, and day-to-day leadership required to keep the company running successfully.
The class then traveled to Robinson Electric Company, Inc., where Brian Robinson discussed workforce challenges, employee retention, and the development of their nationally accredited apprenticeship program (created with support from state and regional partners, including South Delta Planning and Development District) to help bridge workforce gaps right here in our region. He also spoke about leadership within their company and the importance of investing in people, with Robinson Electric, much like Quality Steel, being a multi-generational family-owned business built on strong leadership and long-term community investment.
The day concluded with a tour of the new spec building at the Charles Dean Industrial Park, giving the class a firsthand look at the product of local leadership, state partnerships, energy providers, and economic development collaboration working together to position Bolivar County for future growth.
One of the biggest takeaways from the day: leadership and economic development go hand in hand, and strong communities are built through collaboration.
Thank you again to all of our speakers, hosts, and partners for investing in the future leaders of Bolivar County!
