Patrick Mumford is an accomplished leader with a proven track record of success in various private, public, and elected positions. As the President & CEO of the Gaston Business Association, he provides a unified voice for businesses in Gaston County, fostering economic opportunities and promoting success. With extensive experience in strategic planning, project management, and customer service, Patrick is known for his innovative and collaborative approach. He holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Design and Building Science from Clemson University, as well as a Master of Science degree in Organization Development from Queens University of Charlotte. Throughout his career, Patrick has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to driving positive change in the business community.

Donny Hicks is the Executive Director of the Gaston County Economic Development Commission, a position he has held for thirty-nine years. The EDC is a Gaston County Department charged with recruiting new business, retaining existing companies, marketing and the development of public and private business parks. During this time he has participated in the development of more than 4,000 acres of industrial land, on which, 15,000,000 square feet of space has been constructed. Gaston County has been a destination for advanced manufacturing facilities and foreign direct investment. He is a cum laude graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and earned a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Mr. Hicks is a graduate of the Economic Development Institute and the Economic Development Executive Program at the University of Oklahoma and is a certified economic developer. In 2001 and 2009, he was chosen by the North Carolina Economic Development Association as the Economic Developer of the Year. He is a Past President of the North Carolina Economic Development Association. In 2023, the Association selected him to receive the President’s Award for lifetime achievement. In 2005, he was selected by the Gaston Gazette as the Person of the Year. He currently serves as Chairperson of the North Carolina Community College Foundation Board.