Special to Iredell Free News

Jessica Rivers Stewart, vice president of  Workforce & Strategic Initiatives for the Iredell Economic Development Corporation, was recently honored by the Charlotte Business Journal as a 40 Under 40 award recipient.

This recognition is for individuals that have demonstrated a commitment to their career and community. 

Stewart was recognized for her influence on business and community involvement, which is best demonstrated through her work at the Iredell EDC. Working in economic development for over a decade, she has held numerous positions within Iredell EDC, which has made her an invaluable resource to the organization and the community.

“She is known as a humble leader that supports efforts behind the scenes. The organization would not be where it is today without her work. Jessica approaches the impossible with grace, optimism and a ‘can-do’ attitude, and a pragmatic approach,” explained Jenn Bosser, president & CEO for Iredell EDC. “There are many reasons Jessica is so deserving of this prestigious award.”

Stewart leads Iredell County EDC’s workforce development efforts by deploying a strategy to develop, retain and attract talent by enhancing the workforce pipeline for our existing industry and target clusters.

“I was honored to learn the Charlotte Business Journal had included me amidst these accomplished public servants and professionals. I love what I do—the community that I am a part of—growing and making daily life better for my neighbors and family,” Stewart said.

Stewart has served on the Board of Director on the Lake Norman United Way for nine years. She serves on the Statesville Chamber of Commerce Workforce & Education Committee. She is a former president and two-time Distinguished Rotarian and Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary Club of Mooresville-Lake Norman. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region. She also serves on the advisory committees with Iredell-Statesville Schools and Mooresville Graded School District. She participates in the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, Business Retention & Expansion Committee. She is a member of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). She has completed economic development training through work at GA Institute of Technology, the IEDC, and National Development Council. Jessica is a graduate of the 2022 Class of Leadership Statesville program.

Stewart and her husband live in Troutman and have three young children.