George Sharpe, PE
PARTNER
George, a North Carolina native and professional engineer, joined SHEDC in 2019 and has led and supported economic development organizations for over 30 years. His involvement in the profession began with a 20-year career at Progress Energy (now Duke Energy) managing award-winning programs and strategies to successfully secure new and expanding business within a large region of NC. George later transitioned into the architectural, engineering and construction industry, while maintaining his involvement in economic development. He has served in leadership positions on boards of many kinds, locally and statewide, primarily in support of economic development, education, chambers of commerce and community organizations. George’s well-established, diverse network of business contacts and experiences spanning 30-plus years brings unique value to his clients.
Professional Experience
Progress Energy, Regional Economic Development Program Director
Heery International, Director of Business Development
IBI Group of NC, Business Development Manager
Advanced Energy Corporation, Director of Utility Programs
Education
Clemson University, Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
University of Oklahoma, Graduate, Economic Development Institute
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Graduate, Basic Economic Development Course
Leadership North Carolina, Graduate
Leadership, Awards and Certifications
North Carolina Economic Developers Association, Board of Directors, two terms
NCEDA, first award given for Economic Development Ally of the Year
Wake County Economic Development Commission, Board Member
Holly Springs Economic Development Corporation, Founding Board Member
NC Board of Examiners, Active Professional Engineers License
Raleigh Engineers Club, President
YMCA, Board Chair
Wake County Board of Education, Advisory Board Member
Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce, Founding Board Member
Away from the Office
George and his wife, Tori, enjoy being with their family of two married adult children and five grandchildren, golf, home projects and traveling. He has recently delved into genealogy and documented his family back to about the year 1700 in NC and is now a member of the Order of First Families of NC!