Driving growth, resilience

Meet Deputy County Manager Carrie Shields

Each week, the Duplin Journal highlights a community member whose hard work and dedication exemplify the spirit of Duplin County. This week Duplin Journal invited Deputy County Manager Carrie Shields for a Q&A session.

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, local governments play a crucial role in fostering economic growth and shaping the future of our communities. As someone who has served in key leadership roles, Shields is a testament to effective leadership. Her experience underscores the importance of strategic leadership and the vital role of local government in driving economic success. For Shields, the support and vision provided by the Duplin County Board of Commissioners has been vital in advancing the county’s development.

In this Q&A, Shields discusses the evolving role of local government, the essential factors in attracting businesses, and the importance of collaboration in enhancing Duplin’s economic resilience. You will also get to know the mom behind the scenes and discover a few of her Duplin favorites.

Q: Having served as the Economic Development Director and now as Deputy County Manager, how do you see the role of local government evolving in supporting economic growth?

Duplin County Board of County Commissioners have been supportive in the economic developments across our county.  They have taken a proactive and strategic approach to the development in our county. By adopting a master development plan for Duplin Commons, as well as, for the county’s three industrial parks (AirPark, South Park and West Park) our county has a vision and a plan for growth. We continue to work closely with our state leaders and granting agencies to stay ahead of our county’s infrastructure needs, access to high-speed data, reliable healthcare, and educating our future workforce.  Having a Board of Commissioners that finds value in leveraging our local strengths and encourages collaboration is critical in driving economic growth and resiliency for our county.

Q: In your view, what are the key factors that attract businesses to Duplin, and how does the county help facilitate that process?

The key factors in attracting businesses to Duplin County are product development, infrastructure, and a strong workforce.

Duplin County has strong partnerships with organizations across the state. Some of these partnerships are North Carolina’s Southeast, Economic Partnership of North Carolina, NC Department of Commerce, Duke Energy, and our Electric Cooperatives. These partnerships are critical in presenting Duplin County as the place to relocate your existing business or start a new business. The Duplin County Economic Development Commission Board is comprised of 10 leaders in our community that are dedicated to the growth, development, and success of our county. With support from our county commissioners, Duplin County has the right team to attract new businesses and industries.

Q: What are some ways the county is encouraging women’s leadership and participation in local government and business?

I do not consider myself as a woman in a leadership role. I view myself as a leader in the county. Every employee and applicant in our county is viewed and measured on their own merit. In my role, I take pride in knowing my voice has value.

Q: You’ve held various leadership roles. How has that varied experience shaped your approach as Deputy County Manager? and how did your previous roles influence your approach to these challenges?

Having different leadership roles prior to my time in Duplin County has provided me the opportunity to develop a diverse skill set and afforded me experiences that have enhanced my professional development. Engaging in these leadership positions has helped me build a strong business network, exposed me to different working environments, given me a broader perspective and allowed me to grow as a leader. My previous leadership positions have also exposed me to different leadership styles and challenges. This has allowed me to adapt and refine my own approach which I feel makes me a more effective leader.

Q: You’ve worked closely with JSCC’s customized training department. How do you think workforce development programs can better meet the needs of both local businesses and residents?

The workforce development programs at JSCC are doing tremendous job by offering training and education with industry-specific skills and working directly with our existing businesses to provide hands-on experience through customized training classes, internships, and apprenticeships. Additionally, JSCC offers flexible learning options in person and online to support different schedules allowing the ability to acquire necessary skills and successfully transition into the workforce. JSCC will be breaking ground on a new workforce development center in April. This state-of-the-art building will equip students with the necessary tools, skills, and training to meet our current and future job requirements. Duplin County is fortunate to have the leadership of Dr. Jay Carraway and his staff at JSCC.

Q: How did you get started in local government?

I started working in local government when I became the Economic Development Director for the County. Previously, I worked in the private sector. There are several differences in the public sector verse private sector. Learning to navigate these differences has been rewarding and I’ve truly enjoyed giving back to the community where I was raised.

Q: What do you do in your spare time?

I have a 10 year old daughter that keeps me busy and on the go. She enjoys playing softball so I spend a lot of time at the ball field. We enjoy being active in her school, our church, and our community.

Q: What was the last book you read?

The last book I read was “It Worked For Me – In Life and Leadership” by Colin Powell. This book was suggested in a Professional Development Academy course.  It is a great read and I suggest this book to all current and future leaders.

Q: Where’s your favorite place to eat in Duplin County?

This is a hard one!  If I had to pick one restaurant, I would say the Country Squire. The atmosphere, unique charm, and the stories shared about this restaurant always offers a memorable dining experience.

Q: What, in your opinion, is the best thing about Duplin County?

The people. Duplin County has many hardworking and delightful people. The dedication and efforts by all of our citizens have made Duplin County everything it is today.  It is inspiring to see a strong and resilient community come together for one mission – To make Duplin County a better place to live, work and raise a family.