Earlier this month, Leadership EXCEL turned its focus to the economic engines and workforce initiatives that help drive our region forward. This immersive session offered participants valuable insights into key industries and collaborative partnerships that often operate behind the scenes but powerfully impact our communities every day.
The day began with coffee and conversation at the CLECO Alternative Energy Center in Crowley. Participants were welcomed by Katie Chiasson of Chiasson Consulting and Leadership Excel Board Member, who set the tone for a day of discovery and engagement. The first session featured Bill Holmes, Director for Analytics & Process Chemistry at the UL Energy Institute of Louisiana, who led a compelling discussion on collaborative partnerships in economic development.
Following the discussion, Prashanth Buchireddy, Director of the CLECO Alternative Energy Center, guided the group through an in-depth tour of the facility, showcasing advancements in energy innovation and sustainability.
Next, participants heard from Doug Hargrave and Mary Physician of South Louisiana Community College’s Power Line Program, gaining a firsthand look at workforce development in action and how programs like this are preparing the next generation for high-demand careers.
The class then made its way to Supreme Rice for lunch and a behind-the-scenes tour of the shipping department. Danny Nugier, John Morgan, and Henry Helo shared how Supreme Rice—one of the state’s largest agricultural processors—plays a vital role in both the local and global rice markets.
After lunch, the class visited JohnPac Manufacturing in Crowley, where Taylor Gray provided an in-depth tour of the facility and discussed the cutting-edge processes that drive modern manufacturing in the region.
Later that afternoon, the group traveled to Church Point Wholesale to learn from Gary Duplechin, Jackie Casanova, & Barry Wingate about the scale and impact of wholesale operations in the food distribution sector.
The day wrapped up with an “Economic Development 101” session, featuring Brandy Ledet of Louisiana Economic Development and Megan Duhon of One Acadiana. These economic development professionals discussed state and regional efforts to attract investment, support small businesses, and build thriving communities across South Louisiana.
From renewable energy to manufacturing, agriculture, workforce training, and logistics, this session offered a holistic view of the interconnected systems that fuel economic and workforce development in Acadiana.
Leadership EXCEL continues to provide participants with transformative experiences that deepen their knowledge, expand their networks, and empower them to lead with purpose.
Stay tuned for more updates as Leadership EXCEL continues its impactful journey across Acadia and Jeff Davis Parishes!
