Leadership Southeast Georgia (LSEGA) participants gathered in Bryan County April 2–3 for the third session of the regional leadership program, focusing on the infrastructure, industry and community assets that shape economic development across the region. The two-day session explored the contrasts and shared opportunities that define Bryan County—one of Georgia’s fastest-growing communities.

Participants began the session touring Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), one of the largest and most technologically advanced economic development projects in the nation. The class toured the facility’s production areas and learned about Hyundai’s investment in the region, workforce needs and the long-term economic ripple effects across Southeast Georgia.

Following the tour, the class traveled to downtown Pembroke for a guided walking tour hosted by the Downtown Development Authority. The visit highlighted historic preservation, small-business development and community revitalization efforts—offering a valuable contrast to the morning’s high-tech experience and illustrating the diverse ways economic development shapes local identities.

“I was proud to welcome the LSEGA class to Pembroke and share the story of our community,” said Tiffany Zeigler, mayor of Pembroke and LSEGA alum. “Few places showcase the full spectrum of economic development like Bryan County. In one morning, participants stood inside a cutting-edge automotive megaproject and walked the streets of our historic downtown. Our communities thrive when we balance bold innovation with thoughtful, intentional investment that preserves the character of the places we call home.”

After exploring South Bryan’s historic areas, the group visited the Richmond Hill History Museum to learn how generations of economic development activity have shaped the region culturally and materially. Next, the class visited Richmond Hill High School, where Dr. Paul Brooksher, Bryan County Schools superintendent and LSEGA alum, led a campus tour illustrating the impact of rapid population growth on educational infrastructure and local planning.

The afternoon concluded with a panel discussion on infrastructure, zoning and the challenges and opportunities of rapid growth, featuring leaders from the cities of Pembroke and Richmond Hill and the Development Authority of Bryan County.

On Friday, the class convened at Heartwood for a briefing from the Regional Industry Support Enterprise (RISE) team. RISE serves as a key regional partner in workforce development and industry support across Southeast Georgia, working with local governments, educators, economic developers and employers to strengthen talent pipelines and address shared challenges. Presenters shared insights into RISE’s initiatives — including efforts to connect education and employers, expand workforce opportunities, support underrepresented populations and ensure that regional growth is matched by a prepared and resilient workforce.

“Co-hosting this LSEGA session in Bryan County alongside Mayor Tiffany Zeigler was a true privilege,” said Paige Glazer, LSEGA alum and real estate development manager for Raydient Places at Heartwood. “It’s always energizing to see the place you call home through the eyes of others. Sharing our stories, our lessons learned and the unique strengths of this region with fellow leaders is one of my favorite parts of this program. Our region is incredibly diverse, and this year’s class reflects the vision and excellence shaping Southeast Georgia’s future.”

The session wrapped with group reflection and preparation for next month’s program in Bulloch, Effingham and Screven counties.

Leadership Southeast Georgia’s 2026 program is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, including M.E. Sack Engineering, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, Georgia Power, Georgia Southern University, Coleman Company, Hussey Gay Bell, Savannah Economic Development Authority, World Trade Center Savannah, Goodwill Southeast Georgia, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, International Paper, HunterMaclean, AT&T, Liberty County Development Authority, McIntosh County Industrial Development Authority, Seagate Terminals, Truist, Cecilia Russo Marketing, and Dabbs, Hickman, Hill & Cannon.

Local sponsors for the Bryan county session included Thomas + Hutton, Great Oaks Bank, Sugar on Main, Blue Bell Ice Cream, Heartwood at Richmond Hill, Downtown Development Authority of Pembroke, The City of Pembroke, and Owens Supply Company

The Class of 2026 will continue its program in Bulloch, Effingham, and Screven counties in May.

For more information about Leadership Southeast Georgia and its mission to cultivate regional leaders, visit lsega.com.