News Summary
Tony Deering, CEO of R2P Innovations, is set to deliver a keynote address at the South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo, focusing on innovation and growth in the manufacturing sector. R2P Innovations, recognized as the fastest-growing manufacturing company, specializes in safety products like bulletproof steel doors. The conference will also feature discussions on the energy crisis and strategies for enhancing manufacturing operations, alongside the Palmetto Proud awards that celebrate excellence in South Carolina’s manufacturing community.
South Carolina to Host Keynote Address on Innovation and Growth
Charleston, South Carolina – Tony Deering, the CEO and founder of R2P Innovations, will deliver a keynote address at the South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. The keynote will occur at the Palmetto Proud awards luncheon, held at the Greenville Convention Center and will focus on innovation and growth in the manufacturing sector.
R2P Innovations, located in Ladson, South Carolina, has gained national recognition by being named the fastest-growing manufacturing company in the country, according to the latest Inc. 5000 list. The company ranks No. 5 overall based on revenue growth, achieving a staggering nearly 20,000% revenue increase from 2021 to 2024. R2P Innovations specializes in manufacturing bulletproof steel doors designed for classrooms, a product that highlights the company’s commitment to safety and innovation.
Keynote Importance
Deering’s experience as an entrepreneur and his proven track record in launching successful businesses in South Carolina make his keynote address highly anticipated. Originally from South Africa, Deering previously founded Pegasus Steel, expanding it to a 260-person operation with three facilities in the Lowcountry. His career began in a South African steel yard before he served as an officer in the elite Airborne Forces. With a background in business management from the Damelin School of Business, Deering has also amassed experience as a pilot, parachutist, and endurance athlete.
In addition to Deering’s address, the conference will feature Joe Klecha, chief nuclear officer at The Nuclear Co., who will discuss the energy crisis in the U.S. and its impact on South Carolina’s manufacturing sector. Following these presentations, attendees will engage in a panel discussion addressing strategies for manufacturers to enhance operations amidst rising demand on the state’s power grid.
Palmetto Proud Awards
The Palmetto Proud awards recognize unique South Carolina-manufactured products and their respective companies. This event serves to spotlight innovation and excellence within the manufacturing community and aims to inspire attendees to foster a culture of creativity in their businesses.
Related Events and Empowerment Initiatives
South Carolina is also hosting the 11th Annual Women’s Empowerment of South Carolina event on August 16, 2025, at the SC State Fairgrounds. Scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., this event aims to connect women with role models and provide networking opportunities for personal and professional growth. The Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce will be recognized as a 2025 Empowering Women honoree by SC Biz News, highlighting the importance of support and elevation for women in the workforce.
Moreover, winners of the Empowering Women Awards will be honored on September 15, 2025, at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, starting with a networking reception at 4 p.m., followed by dinner and an awards program starting at 5 p.m.
For those interested in staying updated, the event has adopted the hashtag #SCBIZevents to allow participants to engage and share their experiences surrounding the conference and the broader initiatives promoting growth and empowerment within South Carolina’s manufacturing landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- ABC News 4: Empowering SC Women
- Wikipedia: Women’s Empowerment
- WACH: Empowering SC’s Women
- Google Search: Women’s Empowerment South Carolina
- Post and Courier: MP Chamber Earns Recognition
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gender Equality
- ABC Columbia: 11th Annual Women’s Empowerment
- Google News: Women’s Empowerment Events
- Live 5 News: She Means Business Conference
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