By Mike Demos, OpExChange Coordinator for the SCMEP
On Monday, September 8th, the Carolina Country Club in Spartanburg hosted the inaugural OpExChange Golf Tournament, bringing together 20 teams of four players each from OpExChange member companies for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie.
The event was more than just golf – it was a chance to give back. All proceeds went to the Upstate Warrior Solution (UWS), a Greenville-based nonprofit supporting veterans, first responders, and their families throughout the Upstate. From housing and healthcare to job opportunities and family support, UWS provides a lifeline of resources, ensuring those who serve are equipped to thrive when they return home.
A Perfect Day on the Fairways
Golf Pro David Quiroz lightheartedly claimed, “I was the one responsible for the weather,” as players enjoyed sunny skies and a perfect 75-degree day. The Carolina Country Club’s scenic layout, complete with streams, a central lake, multiple tee options, and meticulously maintained fairways and greens, challenged golfers of all skill levels while providing a stunning backdrop for the event.
Friendly Competition and Collaboration
For nearly 24 years, OpExChange members have collaborated to share best practices, benchmark operations, and strengthen their companies’ global competitiveness. The golf tournament showcased that competitive spirit in a social, fun environment while highlighting the network’s commitment to supporting those who serve our community.
Tournament Winners and Highlights
- Overall Team Winner: THS Constructors, presenting a check for $28,900 to UWS
- Longest Drive: Rod Turnage, Eastern Industrial Supplies
- Closest to the Line: Lee Winters, CHGuenther Inc – Pioneer Frozen Foods
- Closest to the Pin: Dwain Parrish, Fujifilm
The tournament also featured generous support from AFL (food and beverage sponsor) and three tournament sponsors – BOMAG, THS Constructors, and Southern Fabricators – along with a total of 20 sponsors overall, whose contributions made the event possible.
Building Connections and Community
Beyond golf, the event strengthened relationships among members of the manufacturing community. Participants enjoyed networking, conversation, and shared experiences, all while raising funds for a meaningful cause.
“It’s great to get out of the plant and connect in a relaxed setting, especially when it benefits veterans and first responders,” said one participant.
Looking Forward
With its success, OpExChange intends to make this golf tournament an annual tradition, continuing to blend friendly competition, networking, and charitable impact. For Upstate Warrior Solution, the funds will directly support programs improving the lives of veterans, first responders, and their families throughout the Upstate.
The inaugural tournament proved that golf can be fun, competitive, and meaningful – a day to celebrate community, generosity, and the human spirit.
About Upstate Warrior Solution
Upstate Warrior Solution (UWS) is a nonprofit organization based in Greenville, South Carolina, dedicated to serving veterans, first responders, and their families across the Upstate. Founded in 2013, UWS connects warriors to essential resources including housing, healthcare, employment, education, mental health services, and family support.
With a focus on empowerment and community connection, UWS has assisted nearly 12,000 individuals and their loved ones, while maintaining a strong reputation for fiscal responsibility—directing more than 85% of its funds to programs. Through outreach, case coordination, and community partnerships, UWS works to ensure that those who have served our nation and communities are valued, supported, and connected.
Learn more at www.upstatewarriorsolution.org.
About OpExChange
The OpExChange, a program of the South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership (SCMEP), is the only peer-to-peer network of manufacturers and distributors across South Carolina. For over 23 years, this collaborative group has helped member companies improve performance through benchmarking, best practice sharing, and collective learning. Member companies regularly host site visits and events, offering real-world examples of industrial automation, lean manufacturing initiatives, workforce engagement, and leadership development. It is an invaluable resource for South Carolina manufacturers seeking to learn from others on similar operational excellence journeys.
If your company is interested in joining this collaborative effort to strengthen both your operation and South Carolina’s manufacturing community, reach out to Mike Demos at mdemos@scmep.org. Visit www.OpExChange.com for more information on joining and a list of upcoming plant visits.
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