Our Team
Meet the dedicated team at Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation, working to drive business growth and economic success in Cabarrus County.
Gretchen Carson
Email Gretchen
704-577-5655
Gretchen most recently served as Director of Business Recruitment at the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, where she led efforts to attract new opportunities and investment to the Charlotte region.
“Joining the CEDC and returning to local economic development feels like coming home — an opportunity to make a real impact on the quality of life in Cabarrus County, its communities, and its residents,” said Carson. “I look forward to working closely with our talented staff and dedicated community partners to drive meaningful, collaborative progress.”
Samantha Grass
Email Samantha
704-490-4973
Samantha joined Cabarrus Economic Development in 2007 and served as Existing Industry Specialist for 7 years before transitioning into her role as Recruitment Project Manager and now Economic Development Manager. Samantha responds to requests for information by submitting suitable available sites and buildings and compiling community information for requests.
Sam leverages her years of experience and knowledge to guide each project and offer personalized support to every client.
James Carter
Email James
704-440-3763
James joins Cabarrus EDC from the City of Charlotte, where he has served as Economic Development Program Manager for Talent Development since 2022. In that role, he has worked closely with community partners, universities and businesses to advance Charlotte’s talent-based economic development strategy. His experience includes responding to prospective company requests for information, presenting workforce advantages during client visits and managing workforce development initiatives aligned with key growth industries.