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            • Encounter Wilmington

            • Encounter Wilmington is a program designed for professionals who are new to the Greater Wilmington region or are emerging leaders who want to deepen their connections to Wilmington's thriving business community. Participants gain an intensive and up-close look at the most challenging issues and opportunities facing our area while also networking with peers and fast-tracking their connectivity to our community.

              Encounter Wilmington will deliver information about eight key areas of our community, presented by unique and engaging guest speakers. The sessions introduce participants to the Wilmington area, expose them to the Chamber’s key initiatives and feature high-level speakers that are decision-makers in their respective industries. 

              Discover your potential through Encounter Wilmington! Join us to explore new possibilities, build meaningful relationships, and become a part of the vibrant future of Wilmington.

            • About the Program

            • Session Topics Session Topics

              • Arts, History, and Culture
              • Environment
              • Criminal Justice
              • Health and Human Services
              • Transportation and Infrastructure
              • Education, Talent and Workforce Development
              • Business Growth and Development
              • Community Engagement

            • Guest Speakers* Guest Speakers*

              Arts, History, and Culture

              Rhonda Bellamy, President & CEO and Founder, The Arts Council of Wilmington/New Hanover County

              Jan Davidson, Cape Fear Museum

              Dan Brawley, Chief Instigating Officer, Cucalorus Film Foundation

              Screening of A Song for Imogene, Honey Head Films

              Environment

              Kenneth Waldroup, Executive Director, Cape Fear Public Utility Authority

              Layton Bedsole, Shore Protection Coordinator, New Hanover County

              Jennifer Adams, Environmental Leader, Corning Incorporated

              Criminal Justice

              Donny Williams, Chief, Wilmington Police Department

              Health and Human Services

              Ernie Bovio, President, Novant Health Coastal Market

              Jon Campbell, Public Health Director, Health and Human Services, New Hanover County

              Jeff James, CEO, Wilmington Health

              Meade Van Pelt, Executive Director, The Harrelson Center

              Transportation and Infrastructure

              Abby Lorenzo, Deputy Director, Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization

              Mark Hairr, Executive Director, Wave Transit

              Brian Clark, Executive Director, NC Ports Authority

              Jeff Bourk, Airport Director, ILM

              Education, Talent, and Workforce Development

              Jane Morrow, Executive Director, Smart Start

              Dr. Chris Barnes, Interim Superintendent, New Hanover County Schools

              Brandon Guthrie, VP of Academic Affairs, Cape Fear Community College

              Dr. Jamie Winebrake, Provost, University of North Carolina Wilmington

              Talent and Workforce Development

              Lisa Leath, Chief People Officer, Vantaca

              Ginger Brick, Workforce Development Director, Cape Fear Council of Governments

              Steve Hill, TPM Healthcare, Wilmington Chamber of Commerce

              Business Growth and Development

              Dr. Mouhcine Guettabi, Regional Economist, UNCW's Swain Center

              Cliff Pyron, Director of Business Development, Wilmington Business Development

              Josh Hallingse, Vice President, Small Business Development and Retention, Wilmington Chamber of Commerce

              *some speakers subject to change

            • Session Dates & Times Session Dates & Times

              April 29 & 30, 2025

              • April 29: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm

              • April 30: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

              • Registration is now open and will close April 11, 2025.

              October 28 & 29, 2025​

              • October 28: 9:30 am - 5:00 pm

              • October 29: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

              • Registration will open in May and will close September 30.

            • Ideal Candidate Ideal Candidate

              • Individuals who are either new to Wilmington or new to a key position with their employer
              • Individuals who are emerging leaders wanting to deepen their connections to the community
              • Strong drive to immerse themselves into our community
              • Individuals that feel a strong sense of purpose to not only excel in their careers but make a deeper and more positive impact in our region

            • Cost Cost

              The cost of participation in Encounter Wilmington is $575. This cost covers all program costs including meals, snacks, site visit fees, program materials, facilitator fees, and an opening and closing reception.