Golden Triangle Development LINK COO Meryl Fisackerly Named to Mississippi Business Journal’s “Top 40 Under 40”
June 12, 2025
The Golden Triangle Development LINK is pleased to announce that Meryl Fisackerly, COO of Golden Triangle Developmental Link, has been chosen by Mississippi Business Journal as a “Top 40 under 40” recipient. On June 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., a luncheon will be held at the Old Capitol Inn in Jackson to honor these 40 young leaders across the state. Mississippi Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann will give the keynote address at the event.
“The event itself recognizes emerging leaders from across Mississippi who are under the age of 40 and make significant contributions in their communities and industries,” said J. Scott Coopwood, Publisher and Owner of the Mississippi Business Journal. Of the many leaders, Fisackerly was nominated and selected by a business panel and her own community members to win the award.
The award highlights Fisackerly’s contributions and talents inside of her industry. In her current role, Meryl oversees the organization of day-to-day operations, industrial recruitment and retention, and conducts private sector fundraising at the Golden Triangle Developmental Link. She serves as an administrator of the Lowndes County Industrial Development Authority (LCIDA) as well, where she manages a budget of $2.5 million and oversees wide varieties of land development and management of contract providers.
Fisackerly has been recognized for her many different roles, but also her ability to do them well. Joe Max Higgins, Jr., CEO of the GTR LINK, mentioned that Fisackerly has emerged as “one of the industry’s strongest generational talents and learns quickly in her position.” He recognized her skills to “compartmentalize, analyze, and organize” and was not surprised that she had won such an award like the “40 under 40.”
The Golden Triangle Developmental Link is excited to recognize Meryl. She has worked hard and long for such an award and stepped up to the challenges that economic development often presents.
The Golden Triangle Development LINK hosted its TRUST members on August 6, 2025, for Inside the Mind of a Site Selector, held at the LINK’s new office at 2100 Airport Road. The event welcomed more than 65 local business and community leaders for a candid discussion with some of the most respected site selection professionals in the industry. Panelists included Robert Boehringer of KPMG (Philadelphia), Darin Buelow of Deloitte Consulting LLP (Chicago), and Jeanette Goldsmith of Strategic Development Group. The conversation was moderated by Heidi Smith, Vice President of Economic Development for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). A site selector is a consultant hired by companies to evaluate and recommend the best locations for new operations. These decisions are based on factors like workforce, infrastructure, incentives, logistics, and overall community readiness. The panelists answered questions submitted by TRUST members about the site selection process and how the Golden Triangle compares to other regions across the country. “These are folks we’ve worked with on some of the biggest projects we’ve landed, like Yokohama and PACCAR,” said Joe Max Higgins, CEO of the GTR LINK. “They know this region well and don’t pull punches. Having them here talking directly with our stakeholders was incredibly valuable.” If your business is interested in becoming part of the LINK’s TRUST program, contact the GTR LINK office at (662) 328-8369.
LOWNDES COUNTY, MISS. — Local and state leaders gathered yesterday to celebrate the certification of the Golden Triangle’s fifth TVA-certified megasite, the CINCO Megasite, a 1,440-acre site in Lowndes County now positioned for large-scale industrial development. The event was held at 4-County Electric Power Association, located directly across from the CINCO site, and brought together public officials, utility partners, and economic development leaders for the milestone announcement. During the celebration, representatives from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and Quest Site Solutions formally presented the site certification to Lowndes County. TVA Senior Vice President of Economic Development John Bradley, Senior Program Manager Bill Adams, and Lindsey Cannon of Quest Site Solutions commended the regional partnership that brought the site to certified status. “Congratulations to the Golden Triangle Development LINK on the announcement of its newest Certified Megasite, CINCO Megasite,” said John Bradley. “The proactive and strategic commitment to economic growth opportunities will impact this community for generations to come. TVA is proud to partner with 4-County Electric Power Association, Appalachian Regional Council, the Golden Triangle Development LINK, Mississippi Development Authority, and State of Mississippi to support job creation and investment in the region and to further our shared commitment to improve the quality of life for the communities we serve.” Governor Tate Reeves joined the event and announced a $5.5 million site development grant to support infrastructure improvements on the CINCO property. “It’s another great day in the Golden Triangle,” Reeves said. “I have no doubt that the region’s fifth megasite will ultimately be home to a major employer, create a bunch of good jobs, and attract millions in new private sector investment. I’m proud the state could help support the project through a $5.5 million site development grant.” The CINCO Megasite is the result of collaboration among the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Mississippi Development Authority, Lowndes County Industrial Development Authority, TVA, and Lowndes County. During the ceremony, renderings of three potential development concepts were unveiled, including one featuring a full-scale automotive facility. Brian Clark, CEO of 4-County Electric Power Association, underscored the shared benefit of the project for the entire region. “The old quote ‘rising waters raise all boats’ is true for us here because we all benefit when The LINK grows a new megasite and facilitates new business partners in the area,” Clark said. “No other area in the TVA footprint has what we have here. The CINCO Megasite is essential to us not only for the growth of our community, but also because whatever and whoever we land here is right across the street from our office.” Joe Max Higgins, Jr., CEO of the Golden Triangle Development LINK, praised the certification as a sign of the region’s continued momentum. “We don’t build megasites for the headlines—we build them to win,” said Higgins. “CINCO is shovel-ready, strategically located, and engineered to handle the biggest projects in the world. This certification tells global employers that The Golden Triangle is open for business and ready to deliver.” The Golden Triangle now holds more TVA-certified megasites than any other region in the TVA footprint, reinforcing its reputation as a national leader in industrial readiness and economic growth.
Metal fabricator creating 15 jobs Project represents corporate investment of more than $2.675 million Jackson, Miss. (March 3, 2025) – Fabricators Supply, a custom machining and metal fabrication company, is expanding its operations in West Point. The project is a $2.675 million corporate investment and will create 15 jobs. Fabricators Supply offers a range of metal fabrication capabilities, including drilling, pressing, milling, plasma cutting and design. The expansion adds enhanced laser fabrication to the company’s current operations. Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program. The Clay County Board of Supervisors and city of West Point also are assisting with the project. Fabricators Supply was founded in West Point in 2001. For more information on Fabricators Supply, visit: https://www.fab-supply.com/ QUOTES “Mississippi is a strong manufacturing state because we never gave up on manufacturing. Fabricators Supply’s expansion is a testament to the fact that ‘Made in Mississippi’ is a stamp of excellence. It’s something that our manufacturers can be proud of every single day. I thank the Fabricators Supply team for its commitment to our state and for creating more than a dozen new employment opportunities for the people of Clay County.” – Gov. Tate Reeves “MDA is eager to support our local businesses as they invest right here at home, showing other companies that Mississippi is an optimal place to do business. Our pro-business government, easy access to domestic and international markets and top-notch workforce combine so companies like Fabricators Supply don’t need to look beyond our state lines to find lasting success. I appreciate the Fabricators Supply team for once again choosing Mississippi.” – Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork "Fabricators Supply’s expansion is another strong indicator of the continued growth of advanced manufacturing in the Golden Triangle. By adding enhanced laser fabrication capabilities, they’re strengthening their position in the market while creating new job opportunities for the skilled workforce in West Point and Clay County. We’re proud to support their growth and look forward to their continued success in the region." – Golden Triangle Development LINK CEO Joe Max Higgins
· Software company creating 15 jobs · Project represents corporate investment of $2.5 million Jackson, Miss. (Feb. 25, 2025) – Camgian Corporation, a software developer specializing in artificial intelligence and machine learning, is expanding its operations in Starkville. The project is a $2.5 million investment that will create 15 jobs. Founded in 2006, Camgian develops AI and machine learning solutions for government and commercial clients worldwide. For the expansion, the company will enhance its infrastructure, specifically upgrading its high-performance computing capacity to support large-scale AI model training and testing. Camgian also will broaden its software development and testing capabilities to keep pace with the increasing market opportunities for its products and services. Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program. The city of Starkville and Oktibbeha County are assisting with the project, as well. Camgian Corporation plans to complete the project and fill the new jobs within three years. For more information on Camgian, visit www.camgian.com . QUOTES "AI and machine learning provide groundbreaking solutions for business, military and logistical challenges. Mississippi is investing in innovation and remains committed to fostering the safe and secure advancement of this technology. Mississippi is rapidly becoming recognized worldwide as a leader in AI and machine learning, and Camgian’s latest investment further strengthens our foothold in this high-tech field." – Gov. Tate Reeves “MDA is excited to support Camgian as the company advances its innovative AI solutions. Mississippi is harnessing the technologies of the future, and this exciting announcement serves as another reminder to the world that our state is a competitive place to build and grow a high-tech business. We thank the Camgian team for once again leveraging the many competitive advantages offered by a Mississippi location and for bringing more than a dozen exciting job opportunities to Oktibbeha County.” – Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork “Camgian continues to experience strong growth in Mississippi! With the expansion of our Starkville headquarters, we are excited to drive innovation and create new opportunities for the future." – Camgian Corporation CEO Gary Butler "Camgian’s expansion is a big win for Starkville and the Golden Triangle, bringing more high-tech jobs and reinforcing our region’s role in AI innovation. Their investment in advanced computing shows the strength of our local tech sector, and we’re excited to support their continued growth." – Golden Triangle Development LINK CEO Joe Max Higgins
AMERICAN AIRLINES FLIGHTS COMING TO GOLDEN TRIANGLE REGIONAL AIRPORT New Westbound Service Operated by SkyWest Airlines to Begin in May Columbus, Miss.–The Golden Triangle Regional Airport (GTR) is excited to announce that new American Airlines flights, operated by SkyWest Airlines, to Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport (DFW) will begin on May 5, 2025. “We are thrilled to have these American Airlines flights here at the Golden Triangle Regional Airport,” states airport Executive Director Matt Dowell. “American Airlines has an excellent reputation across the country. Offering both eastbound and westbound service will significantly enhance our ability to serve our community.” “Adding westbound service from the Golden Triangle provides a tremendous boost to our economic development efforts,” states Joe Max Higgins, Executive Director of the Golden Triangle Development LINK. “We are a very attractive location for major industry, but the one question that I haven’t been able to answer affirmatively about our community until now, is whether we have westbound air service. Today, we can say yes! With this announcement, we now have the missing piece. We couldn’t be more thrilled." DFW is the second largest single airline hub in the world with nonstop connections to more than 230 destinations worldwide. Air service to and from GTR will begin with one flight a day onboard a CRJ-700 aircraft. Flights will be timed to connect well with key markets in Texas, the West Coast, Mexico and beyond. “We are excited to bring additional options to travelers at GTR,” says Cody Thomas, SkyWest Airlines’ Managing Director of Market Development. “The increased access and connections available from American’s DFW hub will make it better than ever to fly from the Golden Triangle Regional Airport.” GTR Airport has always offered passengers the ease of flying locally instead of making a long drive to another airport, and flights have now become even more convenient. Flights to DFW and beyond are available for purchase now at aa.com or through American’s mobile app.
· Defense manufacturer creating at least 96 jobs · Project represents a corporate investment of at least $21.6 million Jackson, Miss. (Dec. 16, 2024) – Global aerospace and defense company Stark Aerospace is expanding in Lowndes County to support a new contract with the U.S. Navy. The project will create at least 96 new jobs. Stark Aerospace recently was awarded a $61.454 million contract by the U.S. Navy for missile canister production in support of the Mark 41 Vertical Launching System, an on-board missile canister launching system. The contract includes additional options that, if exercised, can increase the cumulative value of the contract to $312.8 million. Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance for infrastructure improvements. The agency also is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program. Construction is slated to be complete within the next year with new jobs being filled immediately. QUOTES “Stark Aerospace’s latest contract with the U.S. Navy is yet another major investment in our defense sector and another impressive economic development success for Lowndes County. The creation of 96 new jobs speaks volumes about the quality of the workforce found in Mississippi, which manufactures some of the most technologically sophisticated defense systems in the world. I congratulate the Stark Aerospace team on this remarkable win and look forward to the company’s ongoing success in Columbus.” – Gov. Tate Reeves "For nearly two decades, Stark Aerospace has been a cornerstone of Mississippi’s aerospace and defense industry, renowned globally for its innovative contributions to national security and the security of our allies. The Mississippi Development Authority is proud to support Stark Aerospace as it embarks on this significant contract with the U.S. Navy, creating nearly 100 new jobs for the talented workforce of the Golden Triangle." – Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork “We are honored and excited to have been selected for this important project. This contract not only reflects our team's hard work and dedication but also underscores our capability to deliver high-quality products that meet the rigorous standards of our U.S. Military and the Warfighters. We look forward to working closely with the U.S. Navy and contributing to the success of this vital initiative.” – Stark Aerospace, Inc. President and CEO David Alabed "This contract is a huge win for Stark Aerospace and the Golden Triangle. It brings quality jobs, strengthens our economy and highlights the world-class manufacturing happening right here in Mississippi. We’re proud to support Stark as they contribute to our national defense and regional growth." – Golden Triangle Development LINK CEO Joe Max Higgins
Columbus, Mississippi – The Golden Triangle Development LINK is pleased to announce Stark Aerospace Inc., a leading Defense and Aerospace provider, has been awarded a significant contract by the Naval Sea Systems Command, of the U.S. Navy. The contract, valued at $61,454,230.00, is for canister production in support of FY24-29 MK 41 Vertical Launch System. This contract marks a substantial milestone for Stark Aerospace, Inc., and includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $312,787,824 and reflects its commitment to delivering exceptional missile canister products and services to its customers. The contract, awarded on 21 October 2024, will see Stark Aerospace Inc., produce and deliver the MK 41 canisters to the U.S. Navy. This project is expected to enhance national security, improve infrastructure, and support advanced research, further solidifying Stark Aerospace Inc’s reputation as a trusted partner in the Defense and Aerospace industry. “We are honored and excited to have been selected for this important project,” said David Alabed, President and CEO of Stark Aerospace, Inc. “This contract not only reflects our team's hard work and dedication but also underscores our capability to deliver high-quality products that meet the rigorous standards of our U.S. Military and the Warfighters. We look forward to working closely with the U.S. Navy and contributing to the success of this vital initiative.” "This contract is a huge win for Stark Aerospace and the Golden Triangle,” said Joe Max Higgins, CEO of the Golden Triangle Development LINK. “It brings quality jobs, strengthens our economy, and highlights the world-class manufacturing happening right here in Mississippi. We’re proud to support Stark as they contribute to our national defense and regional growth." This contract win is a testament to Stark’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the Defense and Aerospace industry. The Company’s proven track record in Missile Canister production played a crucial role in securing this award. This award significantly benefits the Golden Triangle Region and Northern Mississippi, underscoring our commitment to driving economic growth and supporting our local community. About Stark Aerospace Inc. : Stark is a Defense and Aerospace Product and Parts manufacturer of Missile Systems and Loitering Munitions putting Quality as the top priority. Founded in 2006, Stark has consistently demonstrated excellence in the industry and is dedicated to providing, “Excellence in All We Do.” Read more about Stark Aerospace at www.starkaerospace.com
Columbus, MS– The Golden Triangle Development LINK is proud to announce that Chief Operating Officer Meryl Fisackerly has been named one of the “50 Under 50 Economic Developers to Watch” by Southern Business and Development magazine. This prestigious recognition is featured in the magazine’s Summer 2024 edition. Meryl Fisackerly has been instrumental in driving growth and fostering strong partnerships within the Golden Triangle Region, which includes Columbus, Starkville, and West Point, Mississippi. Under her leadership, the Golden Triangle Development LINK has attracted significant investments, strengthened workforce development initiatives, and supported local businesses through various programs and partnerships. "It’s an honor to be recognized among such talented individuals who are shaping the future of economic development in the South,” said Fisackerly. "This recognition reflects the hard work and collaboration of the entire LINK team, and I’m excited to continue working on behalf of our region.” Joe Max Higgins, CEO of the Golden Triangle Development LINK, praised Fisackerly's dedication, stating, "Meryl's leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence have played a key role in the success of the Golden Triangle. This recognition is well-deserved, and we are proud to have her on our team." Southern Business and Development is a leading publication covering economic development news, trends, and insights across the Southern United States. Their “50 Under 50” list shines a spotlight on young leaders who are making a significant impact in the field of economic development.
Columbus, MS – The Golden Triangle Development LINK is excited to announce that Rural King, a prominent agriculture and home retailer, plans to expand its operations to Columbus, Mississippi. The proposed project, pending approval from the Lowndes County Board of Supervisors on Monday, October 7, would see Rural King occupy the former Kmart building, which has been vacant since its closure in November 2018. Rural King’s investment of $8 million will transform the 110,000 square-foot building, utilizing 90,000 square feet for its store and renovating the remaining 20,000 square feet for another retailer, yet to be named. This development is expected to create 60 to 70 full and part-time jobs, contributing an annual payroll of $1 million to the local economy. Full-time employees will benefit from competitive pay and benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, profit sharing, 401(k) matching, and paid time off. Construction and renovations are set to begin in 2025, with the store opening slated for 2026. "We are pleased about the potential of bringing Rural King to Columbus," said Joe Max Higgins, CEO of the Golden Triangle Development LINK. "This project would not only bring valuable jobs to the area but also repurpose a long-vacant property." While the Golden Triangle Development LINK is not contracted to recruit retail businesses for any of the three counties it represents, the LINK does provide technical services, demographic information and help structuring incentives. Rural King has requested financial support from the City and County in the form of tax incentives, including: 100% reimbursement of the city’s allotment of sales tax generated by the retailer for years one through five. 50% reimbursement of the city’s allotment of sales tax generated by the retailer for years six through 10. Abatement of 50% of new city and county ad valorem property tax for years one through 10 that would come from an increase in property value. This excludes all school taxes and the current city and county ad valorem taxes. The tax incentives are capped at $2 million or 10 years. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the project’s success and continued economic development in the region.
Aerosystems manufacturing company Aurora Flight Sciences is expanding in Columbus. The project is a $43,794,998 investment and will create 63 new jobs. The company is adding 50,000 square feet of new manufacturing space onto its existing aerosystems production facility. The company also is refurbishing 40,000 square feet, adding new equipment and machining and improving its automated fiber placement technology. The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive, or MFLEX, program. AccelerateMS and Lowndes County also are assisting with the project. A subsidiary of Boeing, Aurora Flight Sciences designs, builds and flies advanced aircraft and enabling technologies for commercial and defense applications. The company opened its Columbus facility in 2005. Aurora Flight Sciences plans to fill the 63 new jobs by the end of 2025. QUOTES “This investment by Aurora Flight Sciences is further proof that Mississippi is an outstanding location for cutting-edge aerospace manufacturing. The Golden Triangle Region is a hotspot for aerospace excellence, and its skilled pipeline of experienced workers ensures companies like Aurora Flight Sciences remain at the forefront of the industry. Congratulations to the Aurora team on this latest expansion and I wish them many more successful years in Lowndes County.” – Gov. Tate Reeves “Mississippi is having a remarkable year in terms of economic growth throughout the state, and this significant expansion by Aurora Flight Sciences continues that upward trend. Some of the most advanced aerospace work performed anywhere in the world takes place in Mississippi. Now, more than five dozen Mississippians will have new opportunities to take on exciting new jobs with this leading aerosystems company. MDA is proud to support Aurora Flight Sciences as it continues to be an integral component of Lowndes County’s economic landscape.” – Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Bill Cork “Aurora is proud to bring this investment to the community. Since coming to Mississippi in 2005, our manufacturing business has grown exponentially. This success would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of Aurora’s team members here in Columbus. We are thankful for our incredible employees and for the continued support of local organizations such as the Mississippi Development Authority and Golden Triangle Development LINK.” – Aurora Flight Sciences Vice President of Manufacturing Luke Colville “This is Aurora’s third expansion since they located in the Golden Triangle. Their commitment to advancing our aerospace sector at GTRA is greatly appreciated. Now that they are part of the Boeing family we expect that this expansion, will likely not be their last.” – Golden Triangle Development LINK Chief Executive Officer Joe Max Higgins For more information on Aurora Flight Sciences, visit their website at www.aurora.aero .