Greensboro, N.C. — GuilfordWorks, in partnership with the N.C. Department of Commerce’s Piedmont Prosperity Zone Team, is proud to announce that it has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Governor’s Award of Distinction for Outstanding Economic Impact. This prestigious honor recognizes the success of the Future of the Automotive Community Toyota Strategies (FACTS) Project—an innovative workforce initiative designed to support Toyota Battery Manufacturing’s growth and community engagement efforts in the region.

This newly established award category makes the recognition even more significant, and GuilfordWorks is honored to be the first organization in the state to receive it.

The collaboration, led by Regional Operations Director Karen McIntosh, exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in shaping the future of North Carolina’s workforce. The FACTS Project has driven meaningful progress in recruitment and workforce development, while also deepening community relationships in preparation for the demands of a growing advanced manufacturing sector.

This marks the second consecutive year GuilfordWorks has received a Governor’s Award. In 2023, the team was honored for its Fresh Start Initiative, recognized under the category of Innovative Partnerships.

Governor Josh Stein praised the organization, stating:
“I commend your organization’s dedication toward workforce development as you positively impact the local, regional, and state economies, as well as the companies and industries with which you collaborate.”

The award will be formally presented at the NCWorks Partnership Conference in October, held at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro.

GuilfordWorks extends its sincere thanks to Toyota Battery Manufacturing for its continued partnership and trust, and to all supporters helping advance economic opportunity throughout the region. Additional updates—including a new, game-changing partnership—will be shared at the upcoming GuilfordWorks Board meeting.