Across Macon-Bibb County, growth doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s shaped by ongoing conversations with companies already operating here. Understanding what they need, where challenges exist, and how to support what comes next is a big part of the work.
Much of that effort is led by MBCIA’s Existing Industry Director, Eleyce Coleman.
We asked Eleyce to share what staying connected to industry actually looks like and how those conversations turn into action.
What does staying connected to industry actually look like?
Eleyce:
“It really comes down to consistency. There’s no one way it happens. It’s a mix of calls, site visits, emails, attending events, and sometimes just checking in.
I’m in regular contact with our major employers, and those conversations aren’t always formal. Sometimes it’s walking a site and seeing something firsthand. Other times it’s a quick call or follow-up.
The goal is to stay close enough to understand what’s changing and where support might be needed before it becomes something bigger.”
What kinds of things come up in those conversations?
Eleyce:
“A little bit of everything, but there are definitely patterns. Workforce needs come up a lot, along with infrastructure, expansion plans, and day-to-day operational challenges.
Sometimes it’s something small. Other times, it points to a bigger opportunity.
For example, we’ve had conversations where companies were looking for ways to operate more efficiently or reduce waste. That led to connections like the partnership between Irving Tissue and Armstrong World Industries. Materials that would have gone to waste are now being reused in production, which benefits both companies and the broader community.
When you start hearing the same types of needs across multiple companies, that’s when you know there’s an opportunity to step in and help move something forward.”
What happens when a company raises a concern?
Eleyce:
“My role is to make sure it doesn’t stop with me.
When a company raises a concern, I immediately begin thinking about the right people and partners to bring to the table. Strong partnerships are one of the most important parts of what I do. Over the years, I’ve worked hard to build trusted relationships with reliable local, regional, and state partners who can help address challenges and create solutions. Having those connections in place allows us to respond quickly and effectively.
That could mean working with County leadership, state agencies, workforce organizations, educational institutions, utility providers, or even another company that has successfully navigated a similar issue.
Sometimes the answer is a direct connection. Other times, it takes several conversations and collaboration to identify the best path forward.
A good example is workforce development. We’ve worked with partners like Middle Georgia State University to help create flexible programs for working adults. These opportunities allow employees to continue their education while balancing work and family responsibilities. Solutions like that don’t happen overnight, but they begin with strong partnerships and open communication.
At the end of the day, my job is about bringing the right people together, creating momentum, and following through so things actually move.”
How does this support companies as they grow?
Eleyce:
“Growth is a great thing, but it comes with new demands.
As companies expand, their needs change. That could be workforce, infrastructure, or coordination with different partners. If you’re not staying connected, those needs can show up too late and slow things down.
We work alongside companies as they grow to help identify those needs early and connect them with the right resources.
For example, with expansions like Coca-Cola Bottling Co. UNITED, there’s a lot of coordination involved across local and state partners. That work happens behind the scenes, but it plays an important role in helping projects move forward successfully.
The earlier we’re involved in those conversations, the more we can help.”
Why does this matter for Macon-Bibb County?
Eleyce:
“It matters because the companies that are already here are a big part of our community’s long-term success.
When they’re supported, they’re more likely to stay, grow, and continue investing here. That creates jobs, strengthens the local economy, and builds momentum over time.
A lot of economic development focus goes toward recruitment, but retention is just as important. Staying connected is how we make sure we’re supporting both.”
Staying Connected Starts with a Conversation
Eleyce:
“At the end of the day, it starts with communication. We want companies to know that they can reach out, ask questions, and share what they’re experiencing.
Sometimes it’s a quick question. Sometimes it turns into something bigger.
But it all starts with a conversation.”
Connect with MBCIA
If your company is operating in Macon-Bibb County and has questions, needs, or opportunities to discuss, MBCIA is here to help.
Whether it’s workforce, infrastructure, expansion planning, or simply getting connected to the right resources, our team is ready to support you.
