Behind the Scenes at GSP: Exploring South Carolina’s Competitive Logistics Advantage
What keeps South Carolina’s supply chain moving?
On June 11, SC Logistics, an initiative of SC Competes, brought together partners from across the state’s transportation, logistics, and aerospace sectors for a day focused on one of South Carolina’s greatest competitive advantages: its world-class logistics network.
The day began with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport’s expanding air cargo operation before concluding with SC Aerospace Night at Fluor Field. While the settings were very different, both highlighted the partnerships, workforce, and collaboration that strengthen South Carolina’s supply chain and position the state for continued economic growth.
A Closer Look at One of South Carolina’s Critical Supply Chain Assets
The day began at GSP, where attendees heard from Peter Gross, Air Cargo Development Manager for the Greenville-Spartanburg Airport District.
The tour offered an inside look at one of South Carolina’s most important logistics assets and the role it plays in connecting manufacturers and businesses to global markets.
Each week, international cargo flights arrive from Belgium, Germany, and other locations around the world, moving high-value goods into and out of South Carolina. While much of that freight supports BMW and the state’s extensive automotive supply chain, GSP’s cargo operation serves a diverse range of industries requiring speed, reliability, and specialized handling.
From oversized industrial equipment and luxury automobiles to live animals and concert productions, GSP has developed a reputation for solving complex logistics challenges that many larger airports simply cannot accommodate. Its customer-focused approach, operational flexibility, and strategic location have made it an increasingly important gateway within the Southeast’s freight network.
As South Carolina continues to attract advanced manufacturing and global investment, infrastructure like GSP’s air cargo facilities will play an increasingly vital role in ensuring companies can efficiently reach customers and suppliers around the world.
The discussion also reinforced the close relationship between logistics and many of South Carolina’s signature industries. Aerospace, automotive, advanced manufacturing, and defense all depend on efficient transportation networks, resilient supply chains, and seamless connections to domestic and international markets. Investments in logistics infrastructure ultimately strengthen every sector of South Carolina’s economy.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport for hosting the group and providing an in-depth tour of its air cargo facilities. Seeing the operation firsthand offered valuable perspective on the infrastructure, people, and planning required to keep South Carolina’s supply chains moving efficiently every day.
Continuing the Conversation Through Industry Partnerships
After spending the afternoon exploring the infrastructure that powers global freight movement, the conversation shifted to the partnerships and workforce that sustain South Carolina’s logistics ecosystem.
That evening, many attendees gathered at Fluor Field for the 6th Annual SC Aerospace Night with the Greenville Drive. While the event celebrates South Carolina’s aerospace industry, it also reflects the strong collaboration among industry sectors that drives South Carolina’s broader economic competitiveness.
Since its launch in 2021, SC Aerospace Night has become one of the state’s signature industry celebrations, bringing together employers, educators, students, and community partners to highlight career opportunities and showcase the strength of South Carolina’s aerospace ecosystem. This year’s event welcomed attendees from across the state, with representatives traveling from Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Sumter, Columbia, and communities throughout the Upstate.
Eleven concourse displays featured companies, organizations, and education and workforce partners demonstrating the breadth of South Carolina’s aerospace industry. Thanks to the support of sponsors and partners, more than 500 students received complimentary tickets, helping introduce the next generation of talent to career opportunities across South Carolina’s advanced industries.
Before the first pitch, more than 140 guests attended the Leaders Reception, where representatives from SC Aerospace, SC Logistics, SC Tech, and SC Defense came together to strengthen relationships and discuss opportunities for continued collaboration. The reception reflected the cross-sector partnerships that help keep South Carolina competitive by aligning industry, education, workforce development, and economic development around shared priorities.
One of the evening’s most meaningful moments came before the game when Doug Adomatis, science teacher and leader of Greenville Tech Charter High School’s AOPA aviation program, threw out the ceremonial first pitch. His participation served as a reminder that South Carolina’s future workforce is already being developed in classrooms across the state.
Adding to the celebration, longtime SC Logistics partner and education advocate Chuck Baker performed the National Anthem, highlighting the lasting relationships that continue to connect education, workforce development, and industry throughout South Carolina.
Strengthening South Carolina’s Competitive Advantage
South Carolina’s competitive logistics network is built on the seamless integration of ports, airports, rail, highways, inland ports, and distribution centers. Events like this provide an opportunity for industry leaders to see firsthand how these assets work together to connect South Carolina businesses with customers around the globe.
From the global connectivity provided by GSP’s growing air cargo operation to the partnerships strengthened during SC Aerospace Night, the conversations throughout the day reinforced what SC Logistics works to advance every day: a resilient, connected, and globally competitive supply chain ecosystem that supports businesses, communities, and economic growth across South Carolina.