Dec 2020 Issue

Keeping you informed and inspired.

VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 12

December 2020

ENTERTAINMENT

COVER STORY

Fantasy Playhouse Takes Center Stage in West Huntsville Corridor

At the southeast corner of Holmes Avenue and Triana Boulevard sits a 5.5-acre plot of dry grass. Don’t be fooled by its barren appearance for something big is coming soon.

By Lori J. Connors - Page 2

BIOTECHNOLOGY

Human Genome Project Turns 30

It was known as the Human Genome Project and, to this day, remains the world’s largest collaborative biological project. A genome is the complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.

By Lori J. Connors - Page 16

ADDITIONAL STORIES • As FAME Star Shines, Chamber Formalizes Partners with Rocket City Chapter

By Kimberly Ballard • Page 5

• Huntsville School System Scores Marks in Teaching During Pandemic

By Lori J. Connors • Page 11

• Huntsville Companies Among Fortune Best Small & Medium Workplaces

By Kimberly Ballard • Page 14

• BAE’s Warrior Integration Program Called a ‘Lifesaver’

By Mike Easterling • Page 19

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HUNTSVILLE

BUSINESS JOURNAL Vol 3, Issue 12 December 2020 600 Boulevard South Suite 104 Huntsville, AL 35802

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Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

ENTERTAINMENT

Fantasy Playhouse Takes Center Stage in West Huntsville Corridor At the southeast corner of Holmes Avenue and Triana Boulevard sits a 5.5acre plot of dry grass. Don’t be fooled by its barren appearance for something big is coming soon.

Here lies the future intersection of where culture meets community.

As part of the “Spotlight on the Future” capital campaign kickoff, the board and staff of Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy and city officials announced the development of the Fantasy Playhouse Theatre’s $10 million campus.

The 35,500 square-foot theatre is part of Huntsville’s master plan for West Huntsville, serving as the anchor for the Holmes Avenue pedestrian expansion. The new theatre will have 355 seats, a black box space, as well as retail space and a café. But, most importantly, the new facility will have adequate capacity to teach tech theatre, which also includes lighting and set design.

As part of the city’s economic development plan, Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theatre is growing. Along with other local businesses making an early commitment to the endeavor, Huntsville has dedicated $2 million to bring the new theatre to life. Thus, setting the stage for the Hillandale-Terry Heights corridor; with Research Park on the west end, Five Points at the east, and UAH and Fantasy Playhouse Theatre serving as the two main anchor points in between.

“It offers an investment in the arts, attracting people to our city and making Huntsville a better place,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “The arts bring that creativity to us, making it necessary for us to grow.”

A new theatre and educational facility are long overdue.

Now in its 60th year, Fantasy Playhouse Theatre has introduced more than 500,000 people to the magic of theatre. Fantasy has been in its present location on Long Avenue since 1997 and, for the past six years, it has been on a major growth trajectory. As a result, they have been bursting at the seams.

“Our community is the most important part of why we do what we do,” said Karen Mockensturm, Fantasy’s CEO. “The new Fantasy Playhouse campus will be a high-profile, accessible arts and culture destination for families, building on our organization’s legacy and providing the exact theatre arts education programming opportunities that families relocating to our area expect for their children.” u

By Lori J. Connors / Images provided Fantasy Playhouse Children’s Theater & Academy

December 2020

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MANUFACTURING

Mazda Toyota Manufacturing Unveils Corporate Logo As its massive auto plant nears completion, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing unveiled its corporate logo.

The logo, which was developed through partnership with local marketing agency Red Sage Communications, is rich in symbolism and was designed to represent Mazda Toyota Manufacturing’s mission, vision, values and ties to North Alabama, the company said in a news release.

Mazda Toyota Manufacturing is a joint manufacturing venture between Mazda Motor Corp. and Toyota Motor Corp.

“We want North Alabama to see our logo as a reminder of our commitment to serve as a hometown company as much as we want our team to be inspired and motivated to build the highest quality products for our customers every day.”

“The development process for the MTM logo was very intentional. We solicited the collaboration and support of our entire team – from production employees to executive officers – to ensure there was meaning in nearly every facet of the design,” said Mark Brazeal, Mazda Toyota vice president of administration, “We want North Alabama to see our logo as a reminder of our commitment to serve as a hometown company as much as we want our team to be inspired and motivated to build the highest quality products for our customers every day.”

“The opportunity to work collaboratively with Mazda Toyota Manufacturing’s team to develop their new logo and brand identity

By the Huntsville Business Journal Staff / Images provided by Mazda Toyota Manufacturing

“The opportunity to work collaboratively with Mazda Toyota Manufacturing’s team to develop their new logo and brand identity was tremendously exciting. We were honored to be chosen for the partnership” was tremendously exciting. We were honored to be chosen for the partnership,” said Ellen Didier, Red Sage Communications founder and president. “The company’s brand values of innovation and collaboration, as well as a desire to relate to and connect with the North Alabama community, were key inspirations for the design.”

The logo, which reads “MTM”, is composed of two sides joined by three lines representing the company origin and foundation of support from its parent companies, Mazda and Toyota. It also includes meaningful design elements such as use of a custom red that was created through a mix of three shades of paint; Alabama state red, Toyota red and Mazda soul red. The blend was created by students at Limestone County Career Technical Center and was painted on the vehicle cabs used to complete assessments at the AIDT/MTM Assessment Center.

“As we prepare to resume applications for Production Team

“We look forward to being here, building our team and offering exciting opportunities to join us for many, many years to come.”

Members in the upcoming months and continue to make strides toward start of production, we are so proud to reveal our logo to the community,” Brazeal said.

“We look forward to being here, building our team and offering exciting opportunities to join us

for many, many years to come.”

Mazda Toyota has hired more than 750 employees and the $2.311 billion facility is expected to create up to 4,000 jobs and will have the capacity to assemble up to 300,000 vehicles a year, beginning in 2021. u

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Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

REAL ESTATE

T. Lewis Real Estate & Design Expands to Huntsville

By The Huntsville Business Journal Staff / Photo courtesy T. Lewis Real Estate & Design

Subsidiary of EVENT Publishing

President /Publisher................................................................ Todd Stephenson Editor .......................................................................................... Bud McLaughlin Writers.........................................................................................Kimberly Ballard

Lori J. Connors

Mike Easterling Graphic Design ............................................................................. Justina Simon Website................................................................................................ Jim Gharib Photographers...................................................................................Steve Babin

Kimberly Ballard

Eric Schultz

Justina Simon Director of Sales ................................................................. Carolyn Stephenson Account Executives.....................................................................Michelle Epling Distribution......................................................................................Glenda Mace

Huntsville Business Journal is published monthly by EVENT Publishing,

PO Box 14219, Huntsville, AL 35815.

For advertising information call 256.533.8078, e-mail todd@eventhuntsville.com, or visit us on the web at www.huntsvillebusinessjournal.com For editorial information contact editor@huntsvillebusinessjournal.com ALL CONTENTS ©2020. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION OR USE IN WHOLE OR IN PART OF THE CONTENTS WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER IS PROHIBITED. HUNTSVILLE BUSINESS JOURNAL IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF EVENT PUBLISHING. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. UNSOLICITED PHOTOGRAPHS OR ARTICLES ARE SUBMITTED AT THE RISK OF THE PHOTOGRAPHER OR AUTHOR. EVENT PUBLISHING ASSUMES NO LIABILITY FOR THE RETURN OF ANY UNSOLICITED MATERIALS AND MAY USE THEM AT ITS DISCRETION.

Seizing on what founder Therese Winnington calls a “city of incredible opportunity,” Tennessee-based T. Lewis Real Estate & Design has opened an office in Huntsville.

“Huntsville is a city of incredible opportunity, and we want to be a part of the continued growth and revitalization that is happening here,” said Winnington, owner and founder of T. Lewis Real Estate & Design. “I am excited for this expansion and look forward to the ways we will be able to better serve clients from Huntsville to Middle Tennessee, and the counties in between.”

Winnington recently bought 14 properties in Huntsville to revitalize and manage as rental homes.

T. Lewis Real Estate & Design specializes on revitalizing spaces by incorporating high-end design elements that turn properties into modern, intentional homes. Win-

“Huntsville is a city of incredible opportunity, and we want to be a part of the continued growth and revitalization that is happening here,” nington has used this approach in the sales of residential and commercial real estate in Madison, Tenn., and the surrounding area.

“I like to find what makes a property or area unique and work to restore its original charm with a few modern flares.” said Winnington. “The goal is to find what is good in a space and give it an opportunity to really shine.”

T. Lewis Real Estate & Design is in the Regus office space on Old Madison Pike. u

December 2020

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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

As FAME Star Shines, Chamber Formalizes Partnership with Rocket City Chapter From the time Toyota launched its flagship Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) initiative in 2014, city leaders praised it as a promising and much needed apprenticeship training program and recruitment tool for the entire region.

Now the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce has formalized its support for the Rocket City Chapter of FAME Alabama with an official partnership.

According to Lydia Pennington, Chamber Industry Relations director, this new partnership includes local industry and education partners, and the North Alabama Manufacturing Institute.

“Making this partnership official will help support Toyota and AL FAME as a trusted employer-led talent solution,” said Pennington.

“For several years, the Chamber has been a constant presence in support of the program and that has not changed, but more than 10,000 new manufacturing jobs have been announced over the past three years in Huntsville/Madison County. That accounts for more than 80 percent of total job announcements, so we are excited about this.”

FAME also got the attention of Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle who, in a panel discussion after his State of the City Address, said his administration was discussing strategy, trying to shore up anything that could prevent Huntsville from realizing its full potential when FAME filled in some problem areas.

“At the time, Toyota was advertising for 200 jobs, and they had 10,000 people apply,” he said.

“That showed us we had an underemployment issue that needed to be addressed.”

Pennington said the partnership will also help the Rocket City chapter grow and diversify into other industries besides automotive – in fact, that is already happening.

Brown Precision, a machine manufacturing company in Hunts-

“For several years, the Chamber has been a constant presence in support of the program and that has not changed, but more than 10,000 new manufacturing jobs have been announced over the past three years in Huntsville/Madison County. That accounts for more than 80 percent of total job announcements, so we are excited about this.” ville, has been onboard almost from the beginning.

“The FAME program is the most effective way we have found to solve the problem of finding qualified industrial maintenance technicians,” said Co-CEO Greg Brown. “We have over 50 CNC machine tools that need constant planned/preventive maintenance and occasional major repairs.

“I’ve been impressed by the rigor of the FAME program’s technical education as well as the program’s emphasis on the ‘essential’ skills required to be a part of a successful organization. I am thankful that the FAME program has filled a critical void for Brown Precision Inc.” In Huntsville, FAME enrollment has more than doubled since

2014 and that jump in 2019 was a topic of discussion last September when First Daughter Ivanka Trump visited the Manufacturing Institute to celebrate the partnership that brought the FAME USA apprenticeship program under MI leadership.

“Toyota did something exceptional in creating a pilot that was excellent, to train that next generation of high-tech manufacturers, and then we start to scale it across the country,” Trump said. “FAME is an example of manufacturing taking best class practices from the private sector and scaling that opportunity so that many, many, more Americans can experience this pathway of acquired skills through this great program.

“We’re seeing people who have previously been on the sidelines of our economy, now entering the workforce and securing the skills that they need to not just get a job, but to secure a career.”

Findings in a report put out by the Brookings Institution and Opportunity America show AL FAME is one of the most successful apprenticeship models in the country.

The report draws special attention to FAME’s benefits for less advantaged students, including older learners and those not planning to attend college.

Apprenticeship is the only path to a postsecondary credential and well-paying career for these people but, with COVID-19, a more jobfocused education and training is also an option.

By Kimberly Ballard

“Our study highlights what a growing group of manufacturing employers already know,” said Opportunity America President Tamar Jacoby, one of the authors of the report. “The FAME program works to prepare learners for today’s rapidly changing economy, teaching not just technical skills but also critical thinking, problem solving and teamwork.”

Today, FAME is a national network of nearly 400 companies in 13 states, with more than 1,100 Advanced Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) completing the program.

“We welcome this partnership with the Chamber, which we know will allow us to continue to grow … the workforce needs of this region,” said Scott Russo, president of the Rocket City Chapter of AL FAME. “The rapid growth of this chapter shows the value of the FAME model, and now, with more than 20 companies sponsoring AMTs, it is a great time to add an experienced and trusted partner to help us manage the Chapter.”

For Tony Davis, senior director for Workforce Initiatives for MI and FAME USA national leader, the partnership is a model for a win-win situation.

“With the Chamber helping employers solve their skilled position needs while growing local workforce capacity, at the same time theses employers are strengthening their pipeline of global-best talent while fostering relationships with local schools to continue to feed that pipeline,” said Davis. “All of this makes the area more attractive for continued growth, ensuring the entire region benefits from the economies created through this partnership.”

There are 51 graduates from the Rocket City Chapter of FAME, and there are currently 73 students enrolled in the Huntsville program.

“The Chamber is committed to supporting the FAME Rocket City Chapter and helping it grow to meet local demand,” said Pennington. u

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Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

HOUSING

Fleming Farms Welcomes Huntsville Senior Residents Little more than a year after breaking ground at the former Fleming estate in south Huntsville, Fleming Farms senior living community is welcoming its first residents.

The upscale community facing Whitesburg Drive between Airport Road and Drake Avenue features 183 open concept apartment homes for seniors looking for independent living, assisted living and memory care options. The residences feature modern amenities and well-appointed, professionally designed living spaces that range from studio apartments to three-bedroom units. Many floor plans include private balconies.

“Fleming Farms adds a new level of comfort, safety and luxury to the senior community offerings currently available in Huntsville,” said Fleming Farms Executive Director Mandy Hamilton. ‘It’s a place where

senior living comfort meets sophistication, where residents will enjoy maintenance-free living in a spacious environment and experience a continuum of care.”

Amenities include an on-site concierge, a 24-hour emergency response system with on-site monitoring and daily check-in, individually controlled heat and air conditioning, stainless steel appliances and other high-end fixtures and finishes, and standard-size

By the Huntsville Business Journal Staff / Photo provided by Fleming Farms

stackable washers and dryers in the independent living apartments. Utilities, expanded base cable, housekeeping, trash collection and pest control are included.

On-site services include access to physical, occupational and speech therapy professionals; access to licensed nurses; innovative lifestyle programming providing social and educational activities, events and outings; transportation options for area shopping, local errands or appointments; and a medication assistance or management offering.

Fleming Farms also offers white linen upscale and casual dining options, a library and computer center,

a fitness center with indoor aerobic pool, a salon/barbershop with manicure/pedicure services, and an on-site movie theater.

The staff includes Lindsay Adams, lifestyles director; Clementine de Roode, dining services director; Bill Frank, director of engineering; Karen Peppers, director of financial services; Brenda Daniel, director of health services; Rebecca Stapler, resident services director; and Melissa Watts, director of sales and marketing.

Fleming Farms is owned by Birmingham-based Dominion Partners and will be operated by Bridge Senior Living, an Orlando-based company with more than 25 senior communities spanning 16 states. For more information or to arrange a visit, call 1-800-767-9017 or visit FlemingFarms.com.

Madison Crossings Senior

By The Huntsville Business Journal Staff / Photo Courtesy of Madison Crossings Community Slated to Open in Spring MADISON – Madison Crossings, a Phoenix Senior Living community, will offer premier senior living services with superior personalized care and luxury-style accommodations with a comfortable, small-town feel.

On County Line Road, Madison Crossings will be a 132-unit senior living community that will provide both independent and memory care units. It is slated to open next spring.

“We are thrilled to once again partner with Phoenix Senior Living for the development of Madison Crossings,” said Dean Kiriluk, chief investment officer for KIRCO, a real estate development and construction company. “This marks our second project with the company in the state of Alabama, where our dedicated team is applying our unparalleled development and construction experience to help create optimal living environments for the underserved senior market.”

Madison Crossings offers independent living, memory care, respite care and senior day programs.

“We are pleased to work in partnership with KIRCO and

KIRCO MANIX as they share our unwavering commitment to offering best-in-class senior living options focused primarily on the well-being of the residents, their

families and our associates,” said Jesse Marinko, founder and CEO of Phoenix Senior Living. “We are very excited to expand our footprint in Alabama. Our continued and strategic growth allows Phoenix to invest into our organization’s human capital and creates jobs throughout the Southeast for individuals who are passionate and bring a servant heart to the organization.

“Our organization was recently certified as a Great Place to Work which is a direct reflection of our on-going commitment to our associates.”

The state-of-the-art senior living facility will include 105 independent apartments and 27 specialized apartments for memory care. Amenities will include an outdoor pool; wellness center; industry-leading dining experience; beauty salon and spa; yoga studio; and pickle ball court.

Visit www.phoenixsrliving.com/ madisoncrossings/. u

December 2020

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Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

SITDOWN WITH SUCCESS

Bruce Summerville of Inline Lighting and Electric Supply Sitdown with Success is a feature of the Huntsville Business Journal on entrepreneurs and their keys to success. This month’s subject is Bruce Summerville of Inline Lighting and Electric Supply.

Bruce Summerville started Inline Electric Supply in 1988 after he and three co-workers were fired from their jobs at a Westinghouse supply branch here in Huntsville for plotting to start their own business. Today, there are 13 locations in Alabama, one in Tennessee and one in Georgia.

How did you come to Huntsville and what was it like in the early days starting a business?

My father was an electrical contractor in Georgia, so I grew up in the business. I was working as an electrician at an electrical supply house in Atlanta while going to school at Georgia Tech.

When I came to Huntsville, I was only going to stay about six months and here I am over 30 years later.

After getting fired from Westing-

house, we started the business in my basement. Shortly afterward, we found this building on Bob Wallace.

Our business model is Business-toBusiness. We sell to installers, electrical contractors, and industrial plants. On the showroom side, we sell to builders or to homeowners building a home.

I’m sure with technology, the lighting industry has changed a lot over 30 years.

Oh yes. The advent of LED has completely changed the lighting industry, where seven years ago, it didn’t exist.

Before, commercial and industrial lighting was either fluorescent or what we called HID (high-intensity discharge), which was either mercury vapor or metal halide. You couldn’t control it. It was basically either off or on.

What do you attribute most to your success?

We have significant inventories and keep a lot of product on hand; but the biggest thing is people.

We have a lot of people who are

knowledgeable about our industry and about our product and quite honestly, a lot of customers lean on some of our people for technical expertise. That’s really what distinguishes us from most of our competition.

Has COVID-19 caused you any problems getting product?

Every day we’re trying to find material. It is a constant struggle. Everything that comes out of Mexico is a continuous problem.

What would you tell somebody thinking about starting a lighting business?

It’s pretty capital intensive. If we were starting out today, it would be a struggle because it takes so much money to invest in inventory.

Starting a new business is challenging no matter what but I would say hiring the best people will help you be successful.

What have been the biggest challenges you have faced over the past 30 years, COVID included I suppose?

By Kimberly Ballard / Photo by Steve Babin

The financial crisis of 2007 and 2008 was tough because the construction market was hit so hard.

Our business has been up about 10 percent this year… I think we are certainly fortunate to be in the area of the country where there’s so much going on in terms of construction. That has helped carry our business through the pandemic. u

December 2020

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Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

EDUCATION

Drake State Holds Signing Day for Students Entering Mazda Toyota Program Drake State Community & Technical College held its first Signing Day Ceremony, but it didn’t have anything to do with athletics.

But a pair of students did commit to going to the next level in their education and careers.

Darise Andrews and Jack Crowley signed on the dotted line and put on their ballcaps as they committed to apprenticeships with Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. They are the first Drake State students to enter the program.

Drake State and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing developed the apprenticeship program to support workforce needs at the

automotive production plant and provide students with work-based learning opportunities.

As student-interns, Andrews and Crowley will attend classes at Drake State two days a week and work at the Mazda Toyota plan three days. They will also be assigned mentors. u

Pictured left to right: Jack Crowley and Darise Andrews commit to apprenticeships with Mazda Toyota Manufacturing

Ken Watson, president of Bryant Bank Huntsville, presents a $25,000 gift to UAH Director of Athletics Cade Smith, left, and Mallie Hale, Vice President for University Advancement

By Bud McLaughlin / Photo provided by Drake State Community & Technical College

December 2020

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EDUCATION

Huntsville School System Scores High Marks in Teaching During Pandemic Starting in March, and in the months that have since followed demonstrate the resilience of our nation’s educators. In some cases, teachers had a week, or just a few days to seamlessly transform their homes into online classroom powerhouses.

It was a mighty shift for the parents, too, as many suddenly found themselves working from home amidst household cacophony and overseeing the distance learning of one, or perhaps more, children.

Some families had the entire spectrum of elementary through high school students adjusting to distance learning and dealing with technology issues along the way.

“One of the biggest ways in which educators have adapted and evolved is through remote learning” As often as they have been the unsung heroes, teachers have just as often have surmounted the most challenging of obstacles, usually without fanfare or recognition. For them, the pandemic was where the rubber met the road.

There is no try, there is only do.

And so, they did.

Throughout the COVID crisis, Huntsville City Schools scored high marks for adaptability, along with meeting the needs of the student population and their families.

“One of the biggest ways in which educators have adapted and evolved is through remote learning,” said Craig Williams, chief communications officer for Huntsville City Schools. “While many students and teachers already had a comfort level with online learning platforms, we adapted and evolved by learning how to engage in virtual teaching and learning in an age of COVID-19.”

One of the advantages that

By Lori J. Connors

“The district’s ETV Department played a crucial role in providing students with teaching and learning” Huntsville City School has is that it has its own public access channel. Prior to COVID, it was a “nice-to-have” feature, but since the pandemic, nearly 900 lessons have been video recorded and uploaded to the website.

“The district’s ETV Department played a crucial role in providing students with teaching and learning,” said Williams. “Teachers pre-recorded lessons, which were posted on ETV, and those lessons were aired for students to watch on television, thanks to the district’s partnership with Alabama Public Television.”

To address the technology access issue faced by some students and their families, Adtran and Huntsville Utilities donated WiFi that extends 300 yards from school campuses. Huntsville City Schools also deployed WiFi-equipped buses into the community.

The Huntsville City School district began the school year with remote learning before transitioning to a staggered schedule. Traditional students returned to the classroom for the second nine-week period, which began Oct. 26. Those students working remotely are enrolled through Huntsville Virtual Academy (HVA).

“Traditional students in Huntsville City Schools are attending school five days per week, and students in HVA are engaging in online learning,” said Williams. “The district continues to engage in frequent consultation with public health officials, and HCS will communicate any updates to families relative to learning modes for spring.”

Despite speculation, it remains

to be seen whether there will be observable losses in reading and mathematics skills.

“We will likely not know the

long-term impacts of COVID-19 relative to student achievement until later in the school year,” said Williams. u

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Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

COVER COVER

A Dozen Great Ideas for Shopping

By Lori J. Connors / P W: theverticalhouse.com Facebook: Vertical House Records

‘Tis the season to start thinking about holiday gift-giving. Only this year, it comes with a unique pandemic-infused twist.

To help make the annual holiday shopping experience more of a joyous occasion and less of a chore, Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment will be hosting its fourth annual “Yule Y’all,” from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 5.

Folks can enjoy one of the most popular outdoor-centric holiday market and spirit sampling events of the season. There will be a tantalizing assortment of maker art, holiday creations, food, and music, along with a spirited chaser. This year’s event will also fully embrace the social distancing mindset and mask protocol. The lighting of the iconic Lowe Mill water tower will take place 5pm that evening.

With more than 150 working studios and seven galleries, there’s something for everyone at Lowe Mill.

From Cigar box guitars to sculpture and all points in between. What’s more, it’s all created by local artisans and/or owned by local entrepreneurs.

Support Your Community: Shop Local!

Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment 2211 Seminole Drive Huntsville, AL 35805 Hours: Wednesday-Thursday, noon-6 p.m.; Friday, noon-8

p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

(Note: Individual vendors and artists’ hours may vary) P: (256) 533-0399 W: Lowemill.art Facebook: Lowe Mill Arts Wondering where to begin?

Here’s a handful of clever gift ideas, designed to jumpstart even the most stubborn of holiday shopper’s block. If crowds are a concern, many of the businesses also have an online retail presence.

Listed below are a few of the many talented artisans, makers, and entrepreneurs in Huntsville/Madison.

Beginning at Lowe Mill…

CHOCOLATE’S the WORD

For those stumped on what to buy, it’s hard to go wrong with the gift of chocolate. This isn’t any ordinary chocolate, mind you. Owners Caitlin Lyon and Michelle Novosel have built

a mini empire based on their elaborate, unique, and most importantly, delicious confections. In addition to chocolates, there are mini-cakes, ice cream, and chocolate and coffee beverages. Coming soon, just in time for the holidays: Pizzelle’s fabulous Drinking Chocolate ornaments. Willy Wonka beams proudly over their well-run enterprise.

Pizzelle’s Railroad Room 4A Hours: WednesdaySaturday, noon-4 p.m.

P: (256) 513-9745 W: Pizzellesconfections.com Facebook: Pizzelle’s Confections THERE’S A SONG FOR THAT Everyone loves the gift of music.

And vinyl has made a comeback in a big way. Vertical House has a plethora of 33 1/3 titles, from the well-known to the most obscure. As a fixture at Lowe Mill since 2007, Vertical House is your go-to for all genres of music.

Their newest location has more square footage, which means more CDs, cassettes, 8-tracks, and of course, more VINYL. If something you want isn’t in stock, owner Andy Vaughn can order it for you.

Vertical House Records Railroad Room 9 Hours: Wednesday – Friday, noon – 6 p.m.; Saturday, noon – 5 p.m.

P: (256) 658-2976 E: verticalhouse@gmail.com

JEWELRY IS A GAL’s BEST FRIEND It can also be a guy’s best buddy, right? Connie Ulrich’s jewelry is a fusion of natural materials and skillfully worked metals and precious stones.

Her studio presents an attractive selection of hand-crafted jewelry, rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.

There’s even a workshop for making your own ring! Along with the amazing assortment of jewelry, Ulrich also has a fine selection of small paintings available for sale.

Connie Ulrich Studio 121 Hours: Friday, noon-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; and by appointment only P: (256) 536-4653 W: Connieulrich.com Facebook: Connie Ulrich Studio WELCOME TO FABULOUS HUNTSVEGAS Welcome to the Rocket City! If you’re seeking unique, head to Green Pea Press. This shop has a wide assortment of t-shirts, mugs, coasters, koozies, earrings, and stickers. They also have an assortment of frame worthy screen print art. For those who would appreciate an “experience” kind of gift, Green Pea Press offers printing workshops and classes. Gift certificates are also available from $25 and up.

Green Pea Press Studio 150 Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

P: (256) 533-0399 W: Greenpeapress.com Facebook: Green Pea Press In addition to its Lowe Mill studio, Green Pea Press has a location on Governors Drive, next to Alabama Flag & Banner: Green Pea Press 2720 Governors Drive SW, Suite B Hours: MondayFriday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

P: (256) 924-0451

December 2020

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STORY

Local During the Yuletide Season

Photos by Steve Babin IT RESIN-ATES!

on the Irons One e-mail list for product updates and availability.

Irons One Whiskey Studio 2061 Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, noon-6 p.m.

P: (256) 536-0100 E: ironsonewhiskey@gmail.com W: Ironsone.com Although Lowe Mill provides one of the most uniquely creative shopper’s Paradise, here are a few more places to consider around town.

Up and coming resin artist Kenzie Johnston (aka KenziB) will first delight you with her personality, then with her eye-catching and creative assortment of colorful geode-like designs and preserved flowers in resin. The flowers are always bright and fresh; Johnston picks up a new batch daily.

KenziB Studio 301 Hours: WednesdaySaturday, noon-6 p.m.

P: (601) 481-5707 E: kenzi.boo.art@gmail.com W: kenzib.com Instagram: kenziejohnstonart WHISKEY A GO-GO

One man, One whiskey. NASA engineer Jeff Irons has a natural gift for distilling only the best. Love, patience, and commitment are evident in the final product. And for those reasons, Irons One has continued to grow exponentially in popularity. Irons One is a small batch, handcrafted whiskey.

“The only way I know how to make the best whiskey is to be totally involved in every step of the process,” said Irons. “I can only do that if I stay small enough in size to manage each step.” Be sure to check online and get

BEER IS THE WORD If you’re looking for exceptional craft beer, look no further than Das Stahl Bierhaus. With 32 beers on tap, you can have some now, then take some home in a 32-or 64-oz glass growler.

Among the big hits at Das Stahl this season are the Advent beer calendars. The calendars come preassembled and filled with a jolly assortment holiday brewskis. The Advent box can also be purchased and filled with a selection of personal favorites. Not sure what beers to buy?

For $15 more, one of the crew at Das Stahl can fill up that calendar with a selection that’s guaranteed to delight the recipient. In addition to draft beer, Das Stahl sells a wide assortment of canned and bottled beers, decorative steins, branded glassware, and t-shirts.

Still undecided? There’s always the gift card option.

Das Stahl Bierhaus 7914 Memorial Pkwy SW, B2 (Village Center) Hours: Monday-Wednesday, noon-8 p.m.; Thursday, noon-9 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 10 a.m.10 p.m.; Sunday, 2-8 p.m.

P: (256) 858-1495 W: dsb-hsv.com Facebook: DSBHSV SWEET HOME ALABAMA When looking for the perfect gift, look no further. Along with assorted gift baskets, Alabama Goods boasts one of the largest selections of Alabama-made pottery. In fact, everything in the store is created by artisans

here in our sweet home Alabama!

Owners Sherry Hartley and Beth Staula search far and wide throughout the state for just the right art, jewelry, pottery, crafts, and food items.

Alabama Goods 2722 Carl T. Jones Dr SE, Ste C1 (Valley Bend Shopping Center) Huntsville, AL 35802 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

P: (256) 270-7439 W: alabamagoods.com Facebook: Alabama Goods Huntsville

ladies and kid’s clothing, along with assorted accessories and swag, Redbird Boutique is the place to go. Co-joined with University Pickers, Redbird features more than 60 local designers and there’s a wide variety of items to choose from. Bird is the word, shop local!

Redbird Boutique and Gifts at University Pickers 3024 University Dr suite B, Huntsville, AL 35816 Hours: Monday – Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday, noon–5p.m.

P: (256) 536-5738 W: Redbirdhsv.com Facebook: Redbird Boutique and Gifts Listed below are two of the many local designers with merchandise available at Redbird Boutique.

WINE NOT? Located in the heart of Providence Main, Uncorked Owner Saranne Riccio’s secret to her success lies in her simple philosophy, “Wine doesn’t have to be intimidating.” Along with a variety of wines to suit any budget, there are tasty tidbits, such as Mama’s cheese straws, Arabella’s dilled onions, candied jalapenos, and pepper jelly; Belle Chevre goat cheeses, and Pizzelle’s chocolates. Add these delightful goodies with a great bottle of wine to your next gift basket.

Uncorked Wine Shop & Tasting Room 485 Providence Main St NW, STE 101 Huntsville, AL 35806 Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday, noon-8 p.m.; Saturday, noon-7 p.m.

Closed Sundays and Mondays P: (256) 970-4717 Facebook: Uncorked Wine Shop Tasting Room And don we now, our seasonal apparel. If you’re looking for a variety of

WHISK YOU WERE HERE The brainchild of Jonathon Fowler, Fow Wow merchandise is iconic, quirky, and uniquely Huntsville. Many of the designs are sure to provoke a smile, or even a laugh.

Fow Wow brand products are sold throughout Huntsville in retail establishments, such as Redbird Boutique and Huntsville Museum of Art. Merchandise can also be ordered online.

Check the website or Facebook page for a complete selection of products.

Fow Wow Designs W: fowwowdesigns.com Facebook: Fow Wows SOUTHWESTERN HEART CHIC Summer Sklar, an El Paso nativeHuntsville transplant puts her heart and soul, along with beads and wire, into her captivating assortment of Mexican/Southwestern-meets funky chic jewelry. Sklar creates a beautiful selection of earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and wine charms. Heart & Wire jewelry is one-of-a-kind, handmade, and available at Redbird Boutique or via online at the Heart & Wire website. Custom orders are also welcomed.

Heart & Wire W: Heartandwire.com Facebook: Heart and Wire

14

Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

SMALL BUSINESS

Huntsville Companies Among Fortune Best Small & Medium Workplaces Playing on a national stage, three Huntsville-based business have landed on Fortune’s Top 100 Best Small & Medium Workplaces 2020 in the country.

All three companies – Intuitive Research and Technology Corp., PeopleTec and Canvas – were recognized

by Fortune magazine as top performing companies. To be eligible for the ranking, they must also be Great Places to Work-Certified companies, meaning at least 70 percent of the companies’ employees report a consistently positive experience working at their company.

Earning a spot of the list is based on confidential survey feedback representing more than 189,000 employees working at small- and medium-sized businesses throughout the United States.

Intuitive, an aerospace engineering and analysis firm in Cummings Research Park, is ranked the highest on the list at No. 5. Ninety-eight percent of Intuitive’s employees say it is a great place to work, compared to 59 percent of employees at a typical U.S.based company.

“Receiving this honor reflects what is most important to Intuitive … Our employees are the driving force to our success, which is why we invest so heavily in our people.

It has always been our priority to provide a workplace where employees are proud of where they work and excited about what they do.”

“It is a true testament to the Intuitive culture and our employees

By Kimberly Ballard

that we have been honored as Best Workplace in the Nation nine years in a row, all nine years in the top five,” said Intuitive President Vergenia Shelton. “Receiving this honor reflects what is most important to Intuitive … Our employees are the driving force to our success, which is why we invest so heavily in our people. It has always been our priority to provide a workplace where employees are proud of where they work and excited about what they do.”

Also in Cummings Research Park, PeopleTec. is ranked No. 9. The employee-owned small business got its start in Huntsville in 2005 to help provide and retain a highly skilled workforce throughout the area. The No. 9 ranking came with a 98 percent employee satisfaction rate.

“Our unique culture and our commitment to the Warfighter creates a second home for our employee-owners, where trust is high, and everyone feels welcome,” PeopleTec CEO Terry Jennings said.

Coming in at No. 35, Canvas provides services and technical solutions for federal and commercial customers. The company finished with the highest positive employee rating from among the three at 99 percent.

“Canvas is proud to be recognized by our employees for creating one of the best small business workplaces” “Canvas is proud to be recognized by our employees for creating one of the best small business workplaces,” said CEO Jami Peyton. “Our hightrust culture has not only helped us navigate a challenging 2020, but also

continued to propel Canvas forward in the best way possible. We simply couldn’t be a Best Small Workplace or Great Place to Work without our incredible employees.”

Great Place to Work is a global people analytics and company culture research firm. Certification is based

on responses to employee questionnaires based on the extent to which employees trust leaders; the respect with which people are treated; the fairness of workplace decisions; and how much camaraderie there is among the team. u

December 2020

15

SMALL BUSINESS

NHBA Taking Care of Business on Huntsville’s North Side For far too long, businesses and residents of North Huntsville have felt they weren’t sitting at the table to get a piece of Huntsville’s economic pie.

“I am so elated to see this happening … it’s exciting to see this on this side of town,” she said. “As a Chamber, we’re here for you.

“It’s about diversity, inclusion and equity.”

Keith credited NHBA President Reggie McKenzie with being instrumental in promoting North Memorial Parkway and the need for redevelopment and opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The NHBA also unveiled its

“We’re in a unique situation to deploy that strategy from the construction end to the (business openings) end.”

Well, things are about to change because North Huntsville is open for business.

“It’s the politics of inclusion,” said business owner Ron Childers.

“We’re in a unique situation to deploy that strategy from the construction end to the (business openings) end.”

And the North Huntsville Business Association has opened an office and business center to help entrepreneurs and small business owners find success.

The new office is at 2007 North Memorial Parkway, adjacent to HC Blake in the remodeled shopping center at the intersection with Oakwood Avenue. Among those joining NHBA President Reggie McKenzie and other officers at the office’s “soft opening” Thursday were State Rep. Laura Hall, City Councilman Devyn Keith and Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce Vice President Small Business & Events Pammie Jimmar.

“It’s important we not only identify businesses we can help, but it’s also about redevelopment and what businesses’ needs are,” said NHBA Executive Director Judy Hardin. With some 30 years of experience working with small businesses, Hardin recently retired from Raytheon as manager of Small Business Partnering. “We

By Bud McLaughlin / Photos courtesy North Huntsville Business Association

are here to support them, finding the means for them and collaborating.

“As businesses grow, the community will grow.”

One of the means is a Google Fiber-supported Promote the Parkway Initiative. The program aims to assist the city in attracting business along the North Memorial Parkway corridor. It includes one year of free rent to a start-up small business in North Huntsville.

City Councilman Devyn

“As businesses grow, the community will grow.”

Keith, who recently opened the Dark Side coffee shop in the shopping center, has been working to get needed help - financial and advisory - for the North Memorial Parkway corridor.

“This is the first example of seed money from the city,” he said.

“We have to keep the public and private partnerships.

“You can’t get the location and right of way the way North Huntsville has it.”

State Rep. Laura Hall, whose district includes North Huntsville, said the redevelopment of the area is vital and that inclusion - sharing the economic pie - is a primary aspect of the redevelopment.

“We want to see that the inclusion is a reality,” she said. “The importance of inclusion and diversity is a benefit to all.”

Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce Vice President Small Business & Events Pammie Jimmar echoed Hall’s remarks on diversity and inclusion ... and added another aspect.

“This has been a real inspiration for the community to see there is an opportunity for entrepreneurs” Wall of Fame recognizing Google Fiber, Redstone Federal Credit Union and the City of Huntsville as keep supporters and Walk of Fame Stars honoring Keith and former District 1 City Councilman Richard Showers Sr. for their work for North Huntsville.

“This has been a real inspiration for the community to see there is an opportunity for entrepreneurs,” said NHBA Vice President Alex Adams. “This is a star for Huntsville, particularly the north side of town.”

For more information on the North Huntsville Business Association and the Promote the Parkway Initiative, visit http://northhuntsvillebusiness.com/. u

“It’s important we not only identify businesses we can help, but it’s also about redevelopment and what businesses’ needs are” NHBA Executive Director Judy Hardin

16

Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

BIOTECHNOLOGY

The Human Genome Project Turns 30 Three decades ago, the scientific community made a bold leap into uncharted territory.

The goal was to undertake a project to map and understand all the genes of humans. In essence, the scientists were attempting to read the complete genetic blueprint for building a human being.

It was known as the Human Genome Project and, to this day, remains the world’s largest collaborative biological project. A genome is the complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.

Dr. Rick Myers, M.A. Loya Chair in Genomics and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology president

In the mid-1980’s, this group of scientists met at a summit to discuss how to determine the rate of mutation in a given individual’s DNA. Dr. Rick Myers, M.A. Loya Chair in Genomics and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology president, was a postdoctoral fellow at Harvard University at the meeting. He said the discussion highlighted the wonder and imagination from which the Human Genome Project was born.

Then, Oct. 1, 1990, more than 2,800 researchers at 20 institutions across the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan

and China began working on the consortium. The full sequence was completed and published two years ahead of schedule in April 2003.

“We have millions of times more data about the human genome now, and the Human Genome Project made that possible,” said Myers. “We can now explore and learn things much faster and much more thoroughly than we could before. And the quicker you learn something, the quicker you can do something about it.”

Myers said the work helps understand and treat diseases and afflictions – including leukemia and other cancers.

“For example, Gleevec, the groundbreaking drug used to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia and other cancers, is a notable success in which genomic understanding led to the rapid discovery of a protein responsible for the disease and the consequent development and FDAapproval of a drug to block it,” he said. “This is only one of the many examples of diseases we are now more informed about because of the legacy of the Human Genome Project.”

The real-world advances that stemmed from the knowledge and data resulting from the Human Genome Project are innumerable.

Not only did the research have positive impacts on human health and disease, but advances were made in such diverse fields as renewable energy development, food and agriculture, and industrial biotechnology.

A major hallmark of the Human Genome Project was the rapid, free release of data. This was important to those involved in the project because it allowed others to start using the genome data immediately without having to wait thirteen years for the final publication.

With technology being what it is today, it’s easy to take for granted the monumental task of determining the first human reference genome.

Not only did it take 13 years, but it

By Lori J. Connors / Photo courtesy of Rick Myers - HudsonAlpha

was also a costly endeavor.

Thirty years later, genomic testing is comparatively quick and inexpensive. It’s also something that can be done from the comfort of your own home.

“Thinking about the entire genome at once instead of one gene at a time changed biology forever,” says HudsonAlpha co-founder Jim Hudson. u

December 2020

17

BIOTECHNOLOGY

Transomic Technologies Joins Scientist.com’s VIP Team Transomic Technologies recently announced that it has become a member of Scientist.com’s VIP Program, which is quite the distinction.

“Scientist.com puts our portfolio of cutting-edge functional genomic services in front of thousands of pre-qualified research customers” Only laboratories achieving high customer satisfaction ratings and commit to maintaining superior customer service are invited to join.

Transomic Technologies is a genomics laboratory on the campus of the HudsonAlpha Institute for

Biotechnology. It offers life science researchers lentiviral-based functional genomics tools. These tools use next generation technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 to advance discovery research.

“Scientist.com puts our portfolio of cutting-edge functional genomic services in front of thousands of prequalified research customers,” said Blake Simmons, CEO of Transomic Technologies. “The platform helps us get the word out about our latest tools and technologies and helps im-

“Transomic Technologies is a rapidly-growing genomics tools company that has built a reputation for offering innovative technologies,”

prove our digital reputation through positive reviews for our products, services, and customer support.”

Transomic works directly with researchers to better understand their goals and they assist in providing the best solutions to accomplish those goals.

“Transomic Technologies is a rapidly-growing genomics tools company that has built a reputation

By Lori J. Connors

for offering innovative technologies,” said Dr. Kevin Lustig, Scientist. com’s founder and CEO. “We are thrilled they have joined with other exceptional laboratories in our VIP Program to offer high-quality, competitively-priced services and a commitment to outstanding customer service.”

For more information, visit transomic.com. u

18

Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING

Women Are Paving the Way at Yorktown Systems Group Despite representing nearly half of the U.S. labor force, women make up less than 30 percent of technology jobs and only five percent of senior leadership positions at tech-based companies.

Yorktown Systems Group takes those dismal stats and turns them on their head.

At Yorktown, women hold 53 percent of leadership roles, including executive level positions.

In fact, Yorktown’s total workforce is comprised of 60 percent women, which represents more than double the national average.

It’s a combination of talent, skills, and commitment to excellence that serve as distinguishing features.

What’s more, Yorktown’s corporate culture is highly supportive of its employees at all levels, as well as its customers.

mentorship opportunities. Weekly meetings among the executives help ensure all employees have resources for success.

Flexibility and a solid work-life balance has been pivotal for Dariam King, director of Information Technology. King attributes company’s culture as a key factor in her professional growth.

“Yorktown has provided the resources for me to expand my responsibilities within the organization, while providing the flexibility needed to support my husband’s role in the military,” said King. “Although I’ve moved across five states in six years, they’ve given me the opportunity to advance in my career.”

Yorktown’s leadership team provides an open-door policy and a collaborative environment for each team member, from executive leadership to entry-level personnel.

“The differentiator between Yorktown and its competitors is the environment the company creates for its employees,” said Heidi Alvey, deputy program manager for its Asymmetric Warfare Group.

“Yorktown demonstrates the same value and respect to their employees, clients and contractors.”

Yorktown Systems Group founder, retired Army Lt. Col. Bryan Dyer

Yorktown was founded 10 years ago by retired Army Lt. Col. Bryan Dyer. For the past decade, Yorktown’s role has been to equip the warfighter with the tools needed for success out in the field. To make that happen, a high-caliber team is essential.

“Our focus has always been to build the best team possible with the most qualified applicants possible,” said Dyer. “Every person at Yorktown has worked hard for our clients while also playing a large role in enhancing our company culture. There is no ceiling for how successful one can be, and regardless of how we continue to grow, that will not change.”

Suzanne Mathew, Yorktown’s Chief Financial Officer

Suzanne Mathew, Yorktown’s chief financial officer, said Yorktown focuses on internal growth by providing ongoing training and

Nancy Acquavella, Yorktown’s Chief Administration Officer

In the beginning, Dyer recruited Nancy Acquavella, a former colleague.

By Lori J. Connors / Photos from Yorktown Systems

He said her solid work ethic and bigpicture view of the importance of a supportive work culture has been key in Yorktown’s organizational success.

As Yorktown’s chief administrative officer, Acquavella is charged with building on what’s already been in place for a decade.

“Everyone on our team is equally important to the success of the company,” said Acquavella, “As we’ve transitioned from a small firm to a leading partner for the federal government, we’ve recognized diversity of thinking as the main asset that has set us apart from others; this will continue to fuel growth and has allowed our team to shape the organization in ways we never could have imagined.”

For more information, visit ysginc.com u

December 2020

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GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING

BAE’s Warrior Integration Program Called a ‘Lifesaver’ Tom Block was at a crossroads.

After leaving the Army, he was working for the Department of Homeland Security investigating child exploitation. The job gave him financial security, but he said he was covering “pretty rough material’’ and he wanted to look around.

He found what he now calls “home’’ as a member of the Warrior Integration Program (WIP), an 11year old initiative operating within defense contractor BAE Systems. The giant defense contractor, which is currently looking to fill a WIP opening in Huntsville, opened a $50 million, 3,000-square foot campus in Cummings Research Park in September.

The WIP aids post-9/11 wounded warriors seeking jobs once they leave the military. Block, a member of the 3rd Ranger Battalion out of Fort Benning, was wounded in 2013 by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan.

“It’s been, honestly, a lifesaver for me,’’ said Block, who is now a subcontract administrator II for BAE. “It was a very, very hard time for me (at DHS). I was definitely looking for other options.

“I have a friend who works with Systems and he told me about WIP.’’ Alan Kenneally, a native of Ireland who migrated to the United States in1995, is the WIP’s program director. He was injured in an ambush while on his second tour in Iraq as an Army sergeant.

“We bring the individual on and set them up in different parts of the company,’’ he said. “Then, after maybe 12 to 15 months, they switch into a new role. There are more responsibilities, more tasks.

“We have senior leadership and managers who mentor and speak up

Front Row, Left to Right: Marine Corps Master Sgt. Andrew Desmond; Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Sean Madison; Marine Corps Staff Sgt Peter Boisvert; Army Sgt. 1st Class Pat Cornell. Back Row, Left to Right: Army Sgt. Alan Kenneally; Navy Chief Petty Officer Steve Westcott; Army Staff Sgt. Chris Chouramanis; Marine Corps Sgt. Tim Cunha; Army Sgt. Tom Block; Service Dog Csar

for them and sponsor them in trying to get better opportunities. The only requirement to get into the program is honorable service and, unfortunately, have suffered some form of injury.’’

A formal education is not required for WIP applicants.

“It’s very, very accepting of individuals that have that lack of educational experience and drives home the fact that, yeah, we don’t have a degree or diploma but what we do have is years of training and experience and high stress,’’ Block said. “We have tools that can help us handle those types of situations.’’

Joe Wasley, the director of BAE’s Huntsville Business Center and the site director, said while BAE is looking to hire one person now, the goal is to have 250-275 employees within two to three years.

The current opening will be filled through the WIP. “It would be a career in manufacturing, starting manufacturing and an opportunity to expand their career and sign on with a large international company,’’ he said.

“We have 85,000 employees across the world, and we’re the fourth-largest defense contractor in the world.

“It’s a very large company with lots of opportunities to grow and expand

your career here. We are really looking forward to landing a candidate for the program.’’

Applicants don’t have to live in the area but would have to relocate

By Mike Easterling / Photos courtesy BAE Systems

if hired.

“We’re looking at folks that are interested in things like manufacturing, production and what it takes to run a manufacturing operation,’’ said Bob Langell, director of Strategic Operations for the Huntsville Business Center. “There’s a lot of testing in diagnostics and working with engineers as technicians and assistance, anything along that realm of possibilities. Someone who’s interested in that kind of activity we’d be interested in talking to.’’

According to BAE External Communications’ Mark Daly, the WIP allows members to support those in combat.

“They still have a lot of friends that are out there, buddies that are still fighting,’’ Daly said. “This is one of the ways they get to continue to contribute even though they were discharged because they were injured.” u

20

Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

FOOD / DINING

Full Moon Bar-B-Que Opens Huntsville Restaurant There’s a Full Moon rising in Huntsville.

Well, actually, it’s already up.

Full Moon Bar-B-Que has opened its “Best Little Porkhouse in Alabama” here in the Rocket City.

The store, at 1009 North Memorial Parkway, is the 16th Full Moon Bar-B-Que and the fifth owned by Ajlo Foods – co-owned by Naseem Ajlouny and Chase Ajlounhe.

In addition to the standard dining area, the 7,000 square-foot restaurant includes a 60-person event space available for private gatherings as well as an overflow dining room to ensure customers are safely distanced within the COVID-19 parameters.

“We look forward to bringing Full Moon BBQ’s open pit style of ‘que to the city of Huntsville,” said

“We look forward to bringing Full Moon BBQ’s open pit style of ‘que to the city of Huntsville” Naseem Ajlouny. “We are grateful for the tremendous support the Huntsville community has shown Full Moon BBQ and eager and excited to be opening our doors to serve this new market.”

Full Moon BBQ Huntsville offers a quick-service dining experience and serves a full menu featuring all of the BBQ restaurant’s fan favorites – including the famous Full Moon chow-chow and its baked fresh-daily Half Moon cookies – by dine-in or drive-thru, while also of-

fering catering.

For information, visit fullmoonbbq.com or call 256-713-0070. u

By Bud McLaughlin / Photo Courtesy of Full Moon Bar-B-Que

December 2020

21

22

Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL

BUSINESS & COVID-19

Can Doing Business Virtually Stand the Test of Time?

While questions remain about when life in general will return to normal after nearly a year of pandemic, some of the more pressing questions surround the sustainability of businesses if they continue to operate in a virtual vacuum.

Certainly, for the time being, both small and large businesses in Huntsville are adjusting well to the circumstances.

Telework and working from home, Zoom conferences and virtual events have made their way into the mainstream, and everyday life from online learning to groundbreakings, tradeshows, and award ceremonies are relying on virtual technology to carry them through.

While some people, particularly in the educational field, are reporting “Zoom fatigue”, others are already seeing it as an opportunity to get creative, scale back office space, and streamline procedures and operations well into the future if not permanently.

But how sustainable is it really?

Air travel at Huntsville International Airport is ordinarily 70 percent business and 30 percent leisure. Currently combined, HSV is operating at about 30 percent of what it was this time in 2019.

According to Jana Kuner, airport public relations and customer service manager, air travel is slowly improving, but business travel will be the real indicator for how long it will take to get back to normal, and when it does – assuming it will eventually, just how much will business have changed?

“Do people prefer Zoom to in-person meetings and are the savings in travel costs justifiable when compared to face-to-face meetings to ‘close a deal’ or meeting new people to build relationships?” she said. “These are questions businesses everywhere are asking and the airport is interested in their perspective.”

Bevilacqua Research Corp.

CEO Larry Burger said employees are losing, and missing, the personal connection with people.

“Those little conversations you have waiting for a meeting to start, or at the end of the meeting when you extend the conversation beyond the meeting,” he said. “You lose that sense of belonging, that feel of family in an organization when you haven’t seen someone in a month or so who works within your company.”

“I think there are a lot of general update meetings for established customers that may continue to be virtual after everything returns to normal,” said Robert Conger, senior vice president of Technology and Strategy at Adtran. “However, when it comes to competing for new business and establishing key relationships, companies will still want to be in-person once they are able to safely do so.

“I do think web meetings and remote work will continue to play a much larger role in business than they did prior to this year, but each company will have to make their own decisions about when they may return to normal based on the type of work and roles within each company.”

For example, Conger said it will depend on the type of work a company is doing, the individual roles within those companies, and the experience level of the employees as to how effective remote

“While a simple meeting or conference call can accomplish some tasks, it can’t replace the in-person networking, relationship building, and deal making that in person accomplishes.” working will be in the long run.

“For a lot of jobs like software development, remote work is fairly efficient and effective as long as the employees have a good environment at home to limit distractions,” he said. “However, for employees that are new to a company or are earlier in their careers, there is a lot of value in those face-to-face work environments where you can collaborate more frequently and easily.”

Kuner uses the AUSA 2020 meeting going virtual this year as an example of a travel-related event that had a big impact here because so many people in Huntsville travel to that conference by air.

“Some things just can’t be done in the same way virtually,” she said. “While a simple meeting or conference call can accomplish some tasks, it can’t replace the inperson networking, relationship building, and deal making that in person accomplishes.”

Burger agrees completely.

By Kimberly Ballard

“Virtual conferences are much less effective because you don’t get that synergy of a face-to-face,” he said. “We just had a live event in Huntsville for the Redstone Small Business Contracting Conference & Expo and we got more than a dozen leads that were unexpected because we were there. We could have discussions face-to-face with people wandering around the exhibit hall.

“We get almost nothing from a virtual event.”

Roger Rhodes, Business Development director at Qualis said nothing replaces the human faceto-face interaction for building relationships and making deals but he believes virtual meetings are here to stay.

“We completely cut out travel since May,” he said. “I think virtual meetings will continue to play a major role in business for the foreseeable future, but companies will reassess travel costs versus the benefits in the near future but the way of marketing and business travel has definitely changed. We will look to others to determine that balance of travel for the new norm.”

Kuner said it is important for people to know Huntsville International is clean and safe and they have all of the appropriate procedures in place to keep people safe.

“Our airport is so heavy with business travel, if Huntsville gets back to traveling sooner, it could positively impact the airport since the airlines will be making decisions for adding back flights and routes based on demand,” she said.

“It could give them an opportunity to re-evaluate what worked before the pandemic, and where needs are for travel after. If we show that we are back to the sky and we need the service, then chances are that they will provide it.

“This could be an opportunity for us to shake things up.” u

December 2020

23

PERSONAL FINANCE

How Working with a Recruiter Can Make All the Difference in Getting the Job In today’s world, the job market is constantly changing. One of the most effective ways to navigate that change and successfully find your next right role is to work with a recruiter.

When you’re looking for a job, there are many benefits to working with a recruiter throughout the entire process — from the initial phone call to accepting an offer and selecting a start date. Whether you’re looking to re-enter the workforce or leave your current position for your next opportunity, working with a recruiter can be a beneficial tactic in your job hunt — maybe even more so than you realize.

Here are five reasons why partnering with a recruiter is beneficial for any jobseeker.

1. Get Help Perfecting Your Resume If you haven’t searched for a new job in a while, chances are it’s probably also been a while since you updated your resume. You’re not alone; many jobseekers today haven’t written a resume in years or are unfamiliar with where to even start.

A recruiter can help you get the most out of your resume, give you advice on the best way to convey your experience and help you avoid common mistakes, like adding “fluff,” leaving out important skills, certifications or simple dates.

Although it can be a daunting task, it’s very important to display as much information about your experience as possible in one document, and a recruiter can help you discern how to do it in a way that represents you and your unique skillset.

2. Receive Salary Guidance Recruiters are often asked, “What’s the average salary range for someone with my background?” (And rightly so. It’s an important consideration when you’re looking for a new role.)

Because offering salary guidance to candidates is a common activity for recruiters, they can offer an honest and accurate response to this question and help to set you up for success in your job applications.

Recruiters have access to industry data and are constantly in the know

when it comes to salary conversations, which allows job seekers to gain access to accurate salary advice, guidance and benchmarking data for their specific positions.

3. Tap into a Direct Network Recruiters spend a lot of time developing relationships and making connections with companies that are seeking new employees.

If you’re applying to jobs without a recruiter, you’re likely navigating cumbersome online job application portals or trusting that your resume will land in the right hands to be considered for a job. It can feel impersonal, and sometimes you may never know if your resume was ever even seen after you send it.

However, if you’re a good fit for the job, a recruiter will ensure that your resume goes straight to the correct hiring manager’s inbox, thereby expediting the process of getting in front of the appropriate decision maker.

Working with a recruiter can also allow you access to more job opportunities. Some companies don’t publicly post all of their available jobs on job boards. Recruiters can help direct you to opportunities that may otherwise be hard (or impossible) to find without inside knowledge. With more jobs to apply to, you have a better chance of receiving the job offer you desire.

4. Be Exceptionally Prepared for Your Interviews When it comes to the interview process, it’s important to be prepared.

Interviews can be intimidating, but recruiters can offer tools and advice to help you prepare appropriately, share insights on the proper questions

to ask and warn you of which topics to avoid.

Recruiters will even provide you with clear directions to the exact location of an in-person interview or, these days, a link with clear instructions on how to join the virtual interview so you won’t risk showing up late because you got lost.

By Andrea Graham for Warren Averett

5. Utilize Negotiation Assistance Negotiating an offer can be scary.

It can keep you from accepting a job or it can help you to get everything you are looking for.

It’s extremely important to know how to negotiate an offer. During the process, recruiters can act as your representative and will give you guidance for how to negotiate with the end goal of ensuring that both parties (you and your future employer) are satisfied with the offer.

Lean on your recruiter to guide you through the negotiation process!

Searching for a job can be exhausting, but utilizing an experienced recruiter can help to ensure peace of mind, and it can speed up the process. u

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Huntsville BUSINESS JOURNAL