The Future of Work
Artificial intelligence (AI) has dominated the conversation around jobs and the future of work. The World Economic Forum predicts that “23% of jobs will be disrupted by AI, which includes eliminating some jobs and creating others.”
However, there are many job areas that will see growth in demand in the coming months and years. A January Forbes article sites Monster’s findings about where the jobs will be in 2026 and beyond:
Healthcare and Behavioral Health – Registered nurses, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, EMTs, dentists, dietitians and other healthcare professionals are in demand.
Skilled Trades and Technical Services – Automotive technicians, electronics technicians, mechanics, electricians, and repair specialists are in short supply.
Making a difference for businesses in and around the Greater Onslow County area: Jacksonville, Swansboro, Richlands, Camp Lejeune, Holly Ridge, Hubert, Sneads Ferry, North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and beyond.
Transportation, Logistics and Essential Services –Logistics specialists, supplychain professionals and over-the-road truck drivers remain critical.
Technology and Data – Demand persists for practical, businessaligned roles such as data engineers, quality assurance engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and AIadjacent positions especially in healthcare, finance, Software as a Service (SaaS), and enterprise software.
Most of these jobs are humancentric. They require the skills, training, and empathy that are developed in the human mind and in human hands.
For employers and employees impacted by the growth of AI
and the fear of AI taking over positions within the organization, adopting and using the tool appropriately can make a difference in the success of the business as a whole.
MIT Sloan associate professor Lawrence Schmidt co-authored a study on AI’s impact on the future of jobs, which found that “Even jobs with little direct impact from AI can shrink if their employers are slow to adopt the technology.” For example, food service jobs “wilted relative to other jobs not because AI can do the work but because employers that don’t use AI grow more slowly, reducing demand for workers.”
The Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center recognizes the growing need for trades and healthcare positions, in addition those positions in areas such as cybersecurity. Read more about how they are training workers and how businesses can benefit on page 4.
Business Over Breakfast Set for April 17
Our next Business Over Breakfast is April 17.
Join us for an interactive and engaging morning of networking, learning, and, of course, breakfast!
Friday, April 17
8:30am-10am
Marine Federal Credit Union
4180 Western Blvd, Jacksonville
Networking
Breakfast
Expert panel discussion featuring:
Jena Ashcraft, Movement Mortgage
Alexis Siebert, Patriot Roofing
Madeline Riley, Marine Federal Credit Union
Registration is required.
Details: https://onslowbusiness.com/business-over-breakfast/
onslowbusiness.com onslowbiz@words-working.net
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© WordsWorking LLC
Previous issues of Onslow Business are available online at onslowbusiness.com/previous-issues/.
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Chamber Corner
A conversation with Tammy Proctor, Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
How long have you been involved with the chamber?
A total of 4 years
When was the Topsail chamber established?
44 years ago
What is the origin of the name Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce?
The original name was Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce. It was formed by local business owners around Peggy Fussell's kitchen table. (Peggy is still the owner of Surfside Sportswear and Gifts and is still a member!) The organizers understood the importance of working together for the betterment of the community. They also recognized that tourism was an industry and was important to the Greater Topsail Area. The name was updated more than 25 years ago to Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism.
What geographic areas does the Topsail Chamber serve?
From Scotts Hill to Sneads Ferry, but we have members in
Wallace, Wilmington, and Jacksonville.
What types of businesses should consider joining a chamber?
All sectors should be involved in a Chamber of Commere.
How can a business benefit from chamber membership?
The Chamber offers programs for discounted Workers Compensation costs and Healthcare costs, in addition to free educational workshops, networking events, and advocacy.
What are some questions / requests you’ve seen that have come from local businesses?
Most business owners are smart about their business, their skill, their products. Often we see businesses wanting help with marketing. Networking is the best markeing tool because "People do business with people they know."
What types of things does a chamber do that others may not realize are part of its operations?
Our program can reduce those costs.
How are you and/or the chamber involved with tourism?
Our Chamber is involved in tourism because tourism is a major industry in the Greater Topsail Area. We are a visitor center to distribute information. Additionally, in FY 25-26, we contracted with the Pender County Tourism Development Authority to serve as their media buyer, admin assistance, etc.
chambers in general?
Our Chamber isn't your Grandpa's old Chamber. We are an active, growing organization that promotes a strong business community. Without economic growth, a community becomes stagnant and withers. Our members include the Topsail Young Professionals, to retired individuals who just want to stay involved. It's diverse, and it's dynamic.
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism www.topsailchamber.org/ (910) 329-4446 info@topsailchamber.org
Developing Skills for Tomorrow’s Workforce
Businesses who need to fill positions with qualified, trained, and certified young people eager to work in the areas of welding technology, HVAC, automotive service technology, medical assisting, culinary arts, and many more trade areas, can find them at the Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center.
Director John Shannon wants more people to know that and to reach out to the Skills Center when they need interns and employees.
Shannon was among those who “started this conversation in 2006,” he says. Shannon was experienced with similar programs operated for high school students in Upstate New York, where he grew up. The assistant principal at Dixon High School at the time, he was on the first task force to decide whether this type of facility would be possible for Onslow County.
After much research, local funding, grant funding, and a land donation, the Skills Center was brought to reality, opening its doors in 2019.
The research, Shannon says, involved speaking with local and regional organizations, including Jones and Duplin Counties, Economic Development, Workforce Development, and the Chamber of Commerce, asking “what is it that we're missing that we need to have in this area? That's where we landed on the things that we have here.”
Shannon emphasizes that with “everything in this building, save one, you can go to any town in America and get a job. Our purpose is to provide a workforce that fits into the region.”
The Skills Center is part of the Onslow County Public School System but is not considered a school itself. Students come from their schools for the skills classes and then return to their home schools to complete their day.
Students are trained in a wide range of skilled trades, public services, and computer applications and, with the exception of Firefighter Technology, are able to secure
Above, Center Director John Shannon
Below, classrooms for automotive technology, welding, culinary arts, and nursing fundamentals
any necessary certifications while at the Center that will qualify them for a job in their specialty area immediately after graduating .
The Center’s instructors all have extensive “real world” experience in their fields and continue to keep up with the latest technology, regulations, and methods of operation
within their fields. Students get hands-on training in addition to classroom instruction.
Employers are encouraged to go to the Skills Center website at rsc.onslow.k12.nc.us/, to review the offerings that are inline with their needs. Contact the Center at 910-989 -2020 for more information.
Networking Opportunities
Business Over Breakfast
Friday, April 17
8:30am-10am
Marine Federal Credit Union
4180 Western Blvd, Jacksonville
onslowbusiness.com/ business-over-breakfast/
Hosted by Onslow Business
Brainstorming / Networking
Monthly networking session for sales professionals in all types of business, sharing ideas and encouragement
Note new date:
Thursday, April 23, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Biagio’s Piazza (between Clove Hitch and Ransom Room) Jacksonville
A Women Empowering Network (ANEW)
Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30 Meetings in April will be held at the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce Office 13775 NC 50, Surf City
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
All events are free. To register visit the Chamber’s website: topsailchamber.org/events
Coastal Masterminds
April 21, 4pm Chamber office
Note: WomenConnect attendees order from menus at their own expense.
WomenConnect in Sneads
Ferry
April 7, Noon
Rick’s Restaurant
WomenConnect in Hampstead
April 9, Noon
Nineteen Restaurant
Mornings with WomenConnect April 23, 8:30am (Note new time)
Southern Roots Grill
Men’s Business Alliance April 14, 8:30am Chamber office
Veteran Business Collective Chapter Meeting
Thursday, April 16
6:00pm-9:00pm
Carolina Ale House, Jacksonville
Breakfast Meeting Friday, April 3 8am
Blend Café veteransbusinesscollective.org/ chapters-events
Richlands Chamber of Commerce
Last Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m.
200 S. Wilmington Street www.richlandschamberofcom merce.com/
Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
Holds “networking events year-round, including our Business After Hours and General Membership Meetings held monthly.” swansborochamber.org/
Professional Book Club
When We’re In Charge
Wednesday, April 8 10am-12noon
Bistro 1940 618 New Bridge St., Jacksonville
She Means Business Roundtable
Monday, April 27
Time and location TBD
Check their FB page for details on the next meeting
Small Business Saturday
April 18, 10am-2pm
Marine Federal Credit Union Stone Bay Branch 467 NC-210, Holly Ridge
Send your networking event information by April 24 to onslowbiz@wordsworking.net to be included in the May issue.
Business Movements
Jacksonville Food Truck News
The Jacksonville City Council voted to repeal three provisions of its food truck restrictions, responding to a lawsuit filed by the Institute of Justice.
The Institute states that the years-long effort was filed “ on behalf of Nicole Gonzalez, who seeks to host food trucks on her property, and food truck operators Tony Proctor and Octavius (“Ray”) Raymond.”
According to the Institute, the restrictions that were lifted included:
• Forbidding food trucks from operating on private, commercial or industrialzoned property if the property was within 250 feet of any restaurant, food truck, or residentiallyzoned property.
• Forbidding food truck operators from using commercial signage the city allowed all other businesses to use.
• All food trucks had to pay an arbitrary annual permit fee of $300 (for residents) or $500 (for nonresidents).
New Business Opening in Richlands
The Delicate Mercantile is planning to open in Richlands in April. The space is described as a “curated shared marketplace and gathering hall where charm, craftsmanship, and community come together.”
The Delicate Mercantile will be located at 205 S. Academy Street in Richlands.
Coffee Shop Expanding
910 Coffee has announced they will be opening a second location in May. The coffee shop’s first location, established in 2023, is located at 1124 Henderson Drive in
Jacksonville. The shop’ s second location is planned for 609 Richlands Hwy Ste 7, Jacksonville
Swansboro Business Going Mobile
Pawsitively Picture Perfect Spa & Mobile Grooming has closed its stand alone One on One Spa on Corbett Avenue in Swansboro and is now providing mobile services only.
The company’ s owner says “To our mobile clients sit, stay we ’re on the way! We look forward to continuing to provide the same loving, oneon-one care right at your doorstep.”
The Downtown Business Owners are planning First Friday celebrations in the coming months, encouraging everyone to visit and support local businesses in the downtown area.
Send your business news to onslowbiz@words-working.net by April 24 to be included in the May issue.
Marking Milestones: Century 21 Champions
Family and community have always been at the heart of Pam Furney’s work. Her real estate career began in 1980, when she secured her license in a field that gave her the flexibility to be a mom to her young children and grow as a professional. Pam’s husband, Art, retired from the Marine Corps in 1979 and had also secured his real estate license.
That desire to “be a mom” transformed into a 46 year career and a thriving business with about 23 agents and 11 staff members.
After working for another real estate firm for a number of years, Pam and her husband, Art, opened Century 21 Champion Real Estate in September 1997, “with a heartfelt mission: to be a caring company supporting a caring community.” Marissa McCloskey, Marketing and Growth Development Director for the firm adds that “nearly 30 years later, our mission continues to guide every relationship, every family we serve, and every decision we make.”
Pam says, “it’s been a family business from the very beginning.” She adds, “And it's been good for us. It's been very good for us. We’re very much a small family business, and that's always our focus on everything.”
Art passed away in a boating accident in October 2025. An avid fisherman, he was doing what he loved. Pam explains, “his last breath of air was salt air, he had a Marine by his side, and he had four fish in the cooler.”
Today, Pam’s daughter Jennifer is also actively involved in the organization. With a background in finance, Jennifer launched Carolina Family Mortgage in 1990. The mortgage company is now housed in the same building as the real estate firm and Jennifer has moved to the real estate side.
Carolina Family Mortgage is now a separate company,
Jennifer explains. She adds, “We're all connected, though. It's Carolina Family Mortgage. It's just a small, local mortgage company, but they serve the public, not just Century 21 agents.
The company is very involved in the community as well. In fact, Pam says, “That's really what I think the core of who we are at Century 21 Champion is, is giving back to this community.” They support youth sports teams, Dancing Stars, CHEW, Ainsley’ s Angels, Onslow Victim’ s Center, Be the Light, and many other organizations in the area.
Jennifer says that when interviewing a potential new agent, it’s important to “hire the right person that fits with our culture.” Part of the conversation during the interview is also about whether they have a cause they care about. She explains, “if they have a cause that they're passionate about, we want to support it because then their cause becomes our cause.”
Family is important internally as well as with the firm’ s clients. Jennifer tells the story of one of their agents helping a young couple buy their home, adding that “it hit me that we had sold four generations of the same family.” She says that Pam had helped the grandparents and the parents, Art had helped the daughter, and then another agent (Candy) had helped that daughter’s son find his home.
Another agent (Linda) realized that she was helping the third generation of a family of the firm’ s clients. Jennifer says, “that family, they trust her completely.” She adds, “So it's pretty cool that we get to work with generations of families.”
Pam explains that “God, family, work, life balance is what we have always been true to.” As to the longevity and success of the firm itself, she says, “I think
when you put others first, you'll always be successful. It's just a simple, simple, simple principle, but that's what I believe.”
Century 21 Champion Real Estate
2820 Henderson Dr, Jacksonville (910) 455-5328
Jennifer and Pam Furney
Lessons in Transition: Family Businesses
By Bob Rodgers, SBTDC Asheville
A Generational Shift Is Coming
If you’ve worked with familyowned businesses long enough, you’ve seen it: a thriving first-generation company that hits a wall once the kids take over. The sobering truth is about 70 percent of family businesses don’t make it through the second generation, and what’ s even more concerning about this is a huge generational shift is about to occur. Nearly 80 percent of family business owners plan to transition ownership within the next decade. Sounds like a recipe for disaster.
The good news is that as business counselors we can help improve the odds for success. Family businesses that develop succession plans are three times more likely to succeed in the next generation.
Why Second-Generation Transitions Fail
Let’s start by talking about why second-generation family businesses fail. The reasons aren ’t usually financial or operational. They’re human.
One of the most common problems I have seen is that founders wait far too long to plan for succession. Experts recommend beginning planning for generational succession ten years before the transition. Many owners genuinely believe they’ll “figure it out later,” and later end up coming at the worst possible moment; after a health crisis, a burnout episode, or a family dispute that’s been brewing for years. Without a clear plan, families fall back on emotion instead of strategy, and that’s when decisions start to unravel.
Another challenge shows up when founders have trouble letting go. Many have poured decades of their lives into the business and understandably feel protective of how things are done. Even when a successor is named, the
founder often continues to make every major decision, intentionally or not. The next generation ends up with the title but not the authority. Employees get confused about who’s really in charge, and the supposed successor never gets the chance to grow into the role.
Leadership and Readiness Gaps
There’s also the family dynamics piece, which is usually where the real “fireworks” happen. Sibling rivalries don’t magically disappear just because a business is involved; if anything, they amplify. Maybe one child has always felt overlooked, or another thinks they’re the “natural leader” even when the business disagrees. Old grievances resurface, sometimes going back decades, and the business becomes the battleground for settling them. When multiple siblings are involved without clearly defined roles, it often becomes a power struggle instead of a partnership.
I have also seen a lot of transitions fail because the successor was chosen based on fairness instead of fitness. Many founders want to treat their kids equally, which is admirable but not always good for the business. Fairness might be equal ownership, but that doesn’t mean equal leadership ability. Sometimes the person who wants the CEO title the most is the least capable of handling it. Sometimes the most capable child has no interest in running the business at all. And sometimes the new CEO should not be a family member at all. When the wrong person ends up leading, the results are predictable.
Another overlooked issue is that the next generation is rarely trained well enough. Too often, children enter leadership roles without wellrounded leadership training.
Strong transitions happen when successors have real development, such as:
• Rotations through different departments
• Exposure to customers and finances
• Outside work experience
• Formal leadership training
• Mentoring from people who aren’t their parents
Training builds confidence not only for the successor, but for the employees who need to believe in them.
Preparing the Business for the Next Generation
Lastly, the business itself often hasn’t been prepared for a new generation. A first-generation founder can run a company by instinct, but the second generation needs systems, KPIs, documented processes, and modernized operations. When those aren’t in place, the successor spends their first years reinventing the wheel instead of building momentum.
Strengthening the Odds for the Next Generation
As business counselors, we can ’t eliminate family dynamics, but we can shine a light on them early. We can help founders understand that good succession isn’t about replacing themselves, it’ s about preparing the business to succeed without them. We can encourage families to talk openly long before the transition is imminent. Because when these conversations are avoided, the transition doesn’t just fail the family, it fails the business, the employees, and sometimes the whole community that depends on it. By working with family businesses we can triple their chances of passing a healthy business on to the third generation.
The SBTDC is here as a confidential, no-cost partner. Sometimes a fresh set of eyes (and a simple framework) is all it takes to turn next year into your strongest yet.
Contact the Wilmington SBTDC office at 910-962-3744 or uncw@sbtdc.org.
The Different Worlds of Marketing and Sales
You say you’re not a salesperson? Not many people are. You can still market your business, though. Yes, there is a difference, and it makes a difference how you approach each one.
Forbes says, “Marketing is the culmination of all activities that set the stage for sales (e.g., the transaction itself) to take place.” It adds, “Sales is about making the final transaction happen, culminating all of the activities that lead to direct purchases of goods and services.”
So that’s it in a nutshell. There’s more, of course.
The US Chamber explains it by saying, “In its simplest form, the marketing team creates content about a company’ s products and services to generate brand awareness and fill the prospect pipeline. From there, the sales team is responsible for converting
customers in the pipeline to generate revenue.”
When you market your business, you set the stage for the sale. You might network, promote your business on social media, pass out swag, even advertise in a business publication or billboard. These strategies are part of your marketing plan.
Marketing gets your name out, establishes your image, lets people know who you are and what you do. Marketing also builds trust among those that you want to have purchase your products or services.
Marketing creates and maintains your reputation so that when the time comes to purchase, your target is ready and convinced your business is the right one for them.
Building relationships is also part of the sales process. That step needs the marketing
groundwork, though, to make it successful.
Sales involves pitching a deal, making the numbers right for your customer, and closing that deal, to bring in revenue for your business.
Both marketing and sales involve persuasion, but in slightly different ways. When you market your business, you are persuading others that you have a valuable service or product and that you can be trusted. When you become a
salesperson for your business (and most business owners are, in the true sense of the word), you persuade others that they need to pay you!
Sales is intimidating to most business owners.
Another Forbes article explains, though, that “The single best way to be good at sales is to do something you're really passionate about. That's why most entrepreneurs are actually great salespeople.”
Why You Should Still Get Printing Quotes
Even If You’ve Used the Same Printer Since 2000
By Judi Maniscalco, Southern Skies Print Design Photography LLC
Let’s talk about something slightly uncomfortable. If you ’ve used the same printer for years - maybe even decades - you probably feel a sense of loyalty. Comfortable. Safe. And that’s not a bad thing. In fact, long-term vendor relationships can be incredibly valuable. There’s trust. There’ s familiarity. There’s a shared history of getting things done. But here’s the question no one really asks out loud: When was the last time you actually compared pricing? Because getting a quote from another printer isn’t betrayal. It’ s simply good business.
Loyalty Is Fab. Blind Loyalty Is Expensive.
We all love a good long-term relationship in the workplace. The familiar rep. The ease of reordering. The comfort of knowing “they already have our files.” But here’s the part that often gets overlooked: printing costs are not static. Paper prices fluctuatesometimes dramatically. Freight costs rise and fall. Equipment evolves. Labor costs shift. Some print shops invest heavily in newer, faster presses and automation. Others continue operating the same way they have for years.
All of those variables impact what you pay. What was a highly competitive price fiveor even two - years ago may not be competitive today. And if you haven’t checked, you simply don’t have visibility into whether you’re still getting the best value. That’s not disloyal. That’s just reality.
Markets Move - Even If You Don’t.
The printing industry is constantly changing, even if your ordering habits aren’t. Paper mills close. Supply
chains tighten. New vendors enter the market with aggressive pricing. Technology improves efficiency and reduces waste. Some companies gain buying power and pass along savings - others don’t.
Two printers can produce the exact same piece, using similar materials, and still have significantly different pricing structures. Over the course of a year - across business cards, brochures, postcards, signage and more - that difference can add up to thousands of dollars. And the only way to uncover that? You have to ask.
Getting a Quote Doesn’t Mean You’re Leaving!
Let’s clear something up: asking for a quote does not mean you ’re packing your bags. It means you’re doing your due diligence. Strong businesses regularly review their expenses. Insurance policies get re-quoted. Shipping contracts are evaluated. Software subscriptions are audited. Vendors across the board are periodically reassessed. Printing should absolutely be part of that process.
And here’s the truth: a confident, professional printer understands this. In fact, they expect it. Healthy competition keeps everyone sharp, accountable and competitive. If anything, occasionally checking the market can strengthen your current relationship - not weaken it.
You Might Be Missing Opportunities (Not Just Savings)
This isn’t just about finding a lower price. It’s about discovering what else might be available to you.
Another printer may offer:
* Faster turnaround times that improve your workflow
* In-house design or prepress support that saves time
* Better paper options or more consistent stock availability
* Specialty finishes that elevate your brand (soft-touch, foil, embossing)
* Improved color consistency across multiple runs
* Mailing and fulfillment services that streamline your process
If you haven’t explored options in years, you may be operating within limitations you didn’t even realize existed.
Complacency Is Easy. Strategy Takes Intention.
It’s human nature to stick with what works, don’t ask questions, just print. When a vendor relationship feels easy, changing that relationship - or even questioning it - can feel unnecessary. But business decisions shouldn’t be based solely on comfort. They should be based on awareness and education. Taking the time to request a quote, compare options and understand the current landscape isn’t disruptive - it’s strategic. Even if nothing changes, you walk
away with something valuable: confirmation.
A Practical Perspective
At our company, we encourage businesses to truly understand their numbers - because confidence comes from clarity. If you compare quotes and decide to stay with your current printer, that’s a win. It means you know you’re in a strong position. And if you uncover savings or improved quality elsewhere? That’s a win too.
It reflects thoughtful, informed decision-making. We believe relationships matter but so does having a firm handle on your budget. Getting a quote isn’t dramatic; it’s simply responsible. And in business, responsible never goes out of style.
Loyalty is admirable. But informed loyalty? That’ s powerful.
Southern Skies Print Design Photography LLC, southernskiesllc.com
southernskiesprint@gmail.com
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Subscribe to the Onslow Business newsletter (it’s also free!) and get news and updates delivered to your inbox weekly.
Chambers Serving Onslow County Businesses
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
13775 NC Highway 50 Ste 101 Surf City NC 28445
910-329-4446 info@topsailchamber.org www.topsailchamber.org
Tammy Proctor Executive Director
Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce 1099 Gum Branch Rd.
Jacksonville, NC 28540
(910) 347-3141 jacksonvilleonline.org/ Laurette Leagon President
Richlands Chamber of Commerce 8112 Richlands Hwy., PMB 48 Richlands, NC 28574
910-601-5266 or 910-389-6220
www.richlandschamberofcomm erce.com/ richlandsncchamber @gmail.com
Diana Barnes King Director
Swansboro Chamber of Commerce 714 W Corbett Avenue Suite 14 Swansboro, NC 28584
910.326.1174
MFCU Announces Small Business Saturday Market
Submitted by Madeline Riley
MFCU Business Outreach Specialist
Event Title:
MFCU Small Business Saturday Market
Location: 467 Highway 210 Holly Ridge NC
Time: 10 AM - 2 PM
Description:
Join us at MFCU Stone Bay for our very first Small Business Saturday Market! This community event will feature a variety of local small businesses showcasing their unique products and services. It’s a great opportunity to shop local, and connect with businesses right here in our community. We look forward to seeing you there!
swansboroareachamberofcom merce@gmail.com swansborochamber.org/ Mike McHugh Executive Director
Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of North Carolina (FILAMCCNC)
3537 M L King Jr Blvd #50 New Bern, NC 28562
801-577-0193 www.filamccnc.com
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April: Feedback and Growth
By Jessica Marshall Run It Right Business and Mindset Coaching
April arrives with a quiet sense of renewal, a season where reflection gives way to refinement and steady progress. It invites a closer look at what is working, what is not, and what is ready to be strengthened with intention. Feedback (whether from clients, colleagues, or careful observation) is a gift of perspective. It offers not criticism, but clarity. Even challenges and setbacks, when approached with discernment, become markers guiding you toward stronger outcomes and more thoughtful execution.
As Justine Lackey reminds us, “Confidence isn’t a personality trait it’s a system.” Built over time, that system is shaped through reflection, adjustment, and a willingness to learn from every result.
Administrative Insight | Embrace Reflection with Intention
• Observe Patterns with Precision: Go beyond general impressions and track feedback in a simple log or spreadsheet. Note
repeated client questions, common objections, or recurring service delays. If three or more people mention the same issue within a short period, treat it as a priority area for improvement rather than an isolated concern.
• Create a Monthly Review Ritual:
Schedule a standing 30–60 minute session at the end of each month dedicated solely to review. Look at client communications, performance data, and outcomes. Ask: Where did we lose time? Where did we exceed expectations? What felt inefficient? Consistency in review builds clarity over time.
• Refine Systems, Not Just Outcomes: Instead of reacting to one-off issues, look at the process behind them. For example, if clients frequently ask the same onboarding questions, refine your welcome materials. If deadlines are missed, examine timelines and communication checkpoints rather than assigning blame.
• Implement One Adjustment at a Time: Avoid overcorrecting. Choose one or two key improvements and apply them deliberately. Whether it’s updating a workflow, revising messaging, or improving response times, small focused changes are more sustainable, and measurable, than sweeping overhauls.
• Close the Feedback Loop: When clients or team members offer input, acknowledge it and, when appropriate, let them know how it was applied. This builds trust and reinforces that their voice contributes to meaningful progress.
• Track Progress and Wins: Keep a simple record of what has improved as a result of feedback; faster turnaround
Onslow Business is published on the 3rd of each month (or the business day closest to the 3rd).
This unique and valuable business publication is available free at almost 90 locations throughout the county. Onslow Business is sustained by advertising.
Want to be a part of it?
Check out onslowbusiness.com to learn how to promote your business, find print copies, and read previous issues.
Thanks for reading!
times, smoother onboarding, increased client satisfaction. Recognizing these wins reinforces confidence and encourages continued refinement.
April reminds us that growth is not sudden; it is cultivated with care and consistency. Each insight gathered and each adjustment made strengthens your foundation by leading to better systems, stronger relationships, and lasting success.
Run It Right, LLC specializes in in Online Visibility, SEO, Strategy & Systems runitright.llc@gmail.com www.runitright.net
UNCW Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship’s EcoInnovate Announces Sprint for Startups
Submitted by the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
The University of North Carolina Wilmington Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship will host its EcoInnovate Sprint at the UNCW CIE Building on April 7 - April 9, from 5-8 p.m. each day.
EcoInnovate Sprint is an immersive, fast-paced innovation program designed to help students, entrepreneurs, researchers, faculty, and community members develop impactful sustainability-focused solutions. On the first night, you ’ll hear from local stakeholders about community sustainability challenges such as water quality, recycling, and waste management. Over the
course of the three evenings, the participants get the chance to dive into a dynamic environment of ideas, collaboration, and mentorship as they work together toward building solutions to address these challenges.
Everyone is welcome: whether you have an idea, an earlystage startup, or just a passion for sustainability. Come meet like-minded people, build something meaningful, and kickstart an idea or business in just a few nights after class and work! It's a dynamic and immersive experience that fosters creativity, teamwork, and innovation in a short timeframe.
The cost of EcoInnovate Sprint is $35 per person; however, the program is free for CIE Members and UNCW students, and scholarships are available. EcoInnovate Sprint is sponsored by the City of Wilmington.
Please reach out to the CIE if you have any questions or would like to sponsor EcoInnovate Sprint.
EcoInnovate Sprint
April 7-9, 2026
5-8 p.m. each day, dinner is included At CIE: 803 S College Rd., Wilmington
Registration: https://ebill.uncw.edu/ C20231_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp? PRODUCTID=1532
Want to learn more about Innovation Sprints? Read more at Why Innovation Sprints Work and Why You Should Try One (on WilmingtonBiz Insights).
Connect with CIE
To learn more about CIE and our services, programs, and events, join the CIE newsletter. You can also follow us on social media: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, or YouTube
Information about this and other CIE programs is available at https://uncw.edu/research/centers/ innovation-entrepreneurship/events-programs/.
CIE’s website is uncw.edu/cie.
Holly Ridge Annexation Approved for Housing, Commercial Development
In February, the Holly Ridge City Council approved the request for a voluntary annexation that included 1500 acres of land slated for housing and commercial development in Camp Davis. The annexed land is situated west of US 50 and north of Hwy 17 . That request came from Developer/Managing Partner Mike Rokoski. At a Community Information meeting, Rokoski explained that he wanted the new development, situated on property that had been under the jurisdiction of Onslow County, to be part of the Holly Ridge community.
The Holly Ridge Development Group submitted a petition for voluntary annexation in July 2025. Several informational meetings, planning meetings, and council meetings followed. The February 19 vote made the annexation official.
Property planned for development includes about 34 acres for commercial businesses as well as about 30 acres for an elementary school site. Rokoski says of the school site, there is “nothing formal but it’s highly likely going to be moving forward.” Another 2½ acres will be slated for the town’s fire department.
The commercial property is under a broad commercial zoning designation. Businesses expected to occupy the space include a “shopping area serving the residential area surrounding it,” Rokoski says. Those commercial spaces will not be developed for several years.
Housing will be the first step in the project, with over 2,000 homes planned. They will be a mix of housing types, built after the permits and infrastructure are in place. Rokoski says that could take two years at a minimum. He adds that he likes to say, “we're flushing toilets in somewhere about two years.” He then clarifies, “two years plus.”
Once housing is in place, Rokoski says, “existing businesses will be able to serve the residential growth until it gets to the point where that would expand.” He explains that “rooftops drive commercial services.”
Above, renderings of the proposed development area shown at the Community Information session
Left, Developer/Managing Partner Mike Rokoski
Below, an overview of the planned housing development presented at the Community Information Session
Training Opportunities
Public Speaking
Think Fast - Speak ClearlyLead Boldly with Jacksonville Toastmasters
Every Tuesday at 7pm Miller-Motte College 105 New Frontier Way Jacksonville 3478.toastmastersclubs.org/ directions
Lunch and Learn: Small Business Strategic Planning Workshop
Wednesday, April 22 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Cape Fear Community College Surf City Campus, Alston Burke 621 NC-210 E, Surf City Register online at www.ncsbc.net/reg.aspx? mode=event&event=8046010 1
Coastal Carolina Community College Small Business Center coastalcarolina.edu/servicesand-support/servicescommunity/sbc/
Business Photography for Non-PhotographersWebinar
Wed, Apr 8 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Small Business Council Networking Session
Thu, Apr 9 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce Commerce Center
Financial Fortitude in Action: Part 1- How to Write a Business Plan that Leads to Funding! SSBCITA
Sat, Apr 11 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Financial Fortitude in Action: Part 2-How to Finance Your Business SSBCI-TA
Sat, Apr 11 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Lunch and Learn- What You Need to Know About Health Plan Options for Small Business Owners
Tue, Apr 14 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce Center
Starting Your Small Business in North Carolina - Webinar
Tue, Apr 14 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
How to Start a Small Business - MCAS New River
Wed, Apr 15 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
MCAS New River, Building AS -212, Room 121 AS-212 Room 121
Grant Writing Fundamentals - Webinar
Tue, Apr 21 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
From Chaos to Clarity: Begin with questions, leave with solutions to use QuickBooks for Bookkeeping
Wed, Apr 22 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Boots to Business Thu, Apr 23 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
2 sessions ending Fri, Apr 24
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
BNFAC - Pricing for Profit...Not Just to “Cover Costs” - Webinar
Tue, Apr 28 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Interviewing Do's & Don't's
Wed, Apr 29 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
How Business Owners Can Manage Their Time and Focus for Better Business Results-Webinar Thu, Apr 30 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Please note: If you attend a session at the CCCC SBC, complete the follow-up survey. The survey helps the SBC staff tremendously as they plan future sessions and when they report their attendance for future funding. Send your training event info to onslowbiz@wordsworking.net. Deadline is April 24 to be included in the May issue.
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Email onslowbiz@words-working.net and let us know where and how many to drop off each month.
I am writing this article as an Irreverent Warrior hiker. I am not part of Irreverent Warriors leadership, so this article represents my thoughts, opinions and experiences.
Why am I writing this article? I want to share my experience with Irreverent Warriors, inform and inspire others, and to get veterans and active duty fired up for the hike in Jacksonville, NC, on 11 April 2026. There are hikes worldwide annually as well for you out-of-town readers.
Irreverent Warriors was founded in 2015 by a captain in the United States Marine Corps in response to a Department of Veteran’s Affairs report stating 22 veterans were committing suicide every day. Please take the time to read the full Irreverent Warrior story at: https:// www.irreverentwarriors.org/about.
I will conclude this series of three articles (see February 2026/March 2026 issues) with the Irreverent Warrior mission statement, and a final point on the third part of the mission statement “Prevent Veteran Suicide”:
Irreverent Warrior Mission
“We bring veterans together, using humor and camaraderie, to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide”
My final point is every time an Irreverent Warrior hike forms up and steps off, lives are being improved, and in many cases saved, by setting the conditions to remove suicide as an option. I know my life has improved, suicide is not an option, and I know other hikers whose lives were saved by these hikes. How do I know? I know because hikers have said so openly during hike briefs and in conversations during hikes. If someone else has said this, credit to you, but I am saying it now: “I thrive in life irreverently with pride, joy and strength because I am an Irreverent Warrior”
Hikes are mini-missions. Hikers must check all their gear, plan transportation and lodging, receive a pre-hike brief, execute the hike, and listen to a post-hike brief. This replicates what active-duty missions look like, so this regenerates a
Irreverent Warriors “To Prevent Veteran Suicide ”
By Chris Rabassi
sense of purpose and mission. Purpose and mission help fight back the demons we all have when alone with our thoughts; without a sense of purpose and mission. Without purpose and mission, the demons can lead to isolation and suicide. Also, the inability to share experiences with people who “get you” is another condition that can lead to suicide.
On one hike I listened to a Marine sergeant talk about the challenges she faced being a female in the Corps. I listened, didn’t say a word, didn’t even get her name. After she was done talking, we got up to take a group photo. After the photo she walked up to me and just said, “thank you for listening and showing you care.”
On another hike, one of the hike organizers shared a time when he had made the full commitment to commit suicide. He cleared his family from the house, got the gun and was ready to go when the phone rang. It was another hike organizer talking about the need to keep the hikes going during COVID. That hike organizer is alive and thriving today!
Over the past few years, hikers have been asked to send 22 texts to whoever; family, friends, the who doesn’t matter. What matters is some of these texts will inspire someone who is struggling to seek help, or just come out and reconnect with an outstanding tribe. One of these texts will go to a person who is done and ready to commit suicide, and that text will save a life.
Now, can suicide be eliminated? No! From January to the time you read this article I was personally aware of the suicides of one veteran, three active duty and one civilian. However, I think of a saying I used when my Marines and I were training for our second deployment to Iraq, “If God wants you, he is going to get you, but we are going to make Him work for it!” I believe Irreverent Warriors is making God work for it by giving active duty and veterans a sense of tribe, purpose and mission. Find this sacrilegious? Refer to the title “Irreverent”!
Jacksonville, NC, and for civilians to come out and cheer us on!
Part of the 2026 hike schedule is in all the social media platforms, so go check it out. The rest of the hike schedule should come out in June 2026.
If you have any questions on the above, or want to hear more about my physical and mental health journey please e-mail me at rabassi.chris@gmail.com
“We bring veterans together, using humor and camaraderie, to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide”
Irreverent Warriors is improving and saving lives. I encourage veterans and active duty to join us on 11 April 2026 for the Irreverent Warrior Hike in
(NOTE: This series of articles has been submitted as a paid advertisement.)