Research David Clayton, Research Division Director, manages a highly-skilled, multidisciplinary group of professionals dedicated to the collection, analysis and dissemination of precise, timely data. The team of 13 individuals—including two Ph.D.’s and seven master’s degrees— has experience ranging from economics and business to statistics, information technology and more. The group integrates workforce and economic development research through the incorporation of federally-funded Labor Market Information directives and state-funded workforce and economic development initiatives. Rebecca Gunnlaugsson is the economist for the Department of Commerce. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and her Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Michigan. Dr. Gunnlaugsson was instrumental in the restructuring of the Department of Employment and Workforce, and developing recommendations for restructuring the South Carolina Retirement System Investment Commission and the state’s higher education system.
Community & Rural Planning And Development Maceo Nance leads the Community & Rural Planning and Development Division, which works with counties and rural communities throughout South Carolina to plan and develop industrial parks and sites that will suit the needs of businesses looking to locate or expand in the state. The agency also works with local communities to address a variety of topics.
SC Public Railways Jeff McWhorter, oversees the South Carolina Public Railways Division, which operates three common carrier railroads throughout the state and provides technical assistance and consulting service in railroad matters to state, local and municipal governments. Railways’ mission is to provide safe, efficient and cost-effective rail solutions to facilitate the movement of freight and support economic development efforts.
Administration Division Chris Huffman, Director of the Administration Division, ensures that Commerce runs as smoothly as possible. The agency strives to be a good steward of the state taxpayer’s dollars, and the Finance team manages agency resources to make sure they are used in a cost-effective manner. Commerce’s Information Technology team keeps Commerce connected, and the Human Resources team oversees all employee-related issues.
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