CenterState CEO recognizes area Economic Champions, JMA Wireless

CenterState CEO also presented its Community Visionary Award to JMA Wireless for “embodying a vision of economic opportunity, and for its work to create a significant positive impact on community prosperity.”

Economic Champions

Companies were nominated as Economic Champions for their accomplishments throughout the year by CenterState CEO; the Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce; the Upstate Minority Economic Alliance; the Downtown Committee of Syracuse; as well as peers, employees, and staff.

The companies recognized included 120 businesses for opening new storefronts, offices and facilities; 40 were highlighted for celebrating a milestone anniversary; and 98 were recognized for receiving significant awards and achievements.

“This year, our business development team has been actively tracking more than $89 billion in proposed projects that are interested in expanding and locating in Central New York; an unprecedented level of economic development opportunity that we’ve never seen before,” Robert Simpson, president and CEO of CenterState CEO, said. “In addition to those opportunities, we are excited to celebrate a record number of Economic Champions this year. Their micro decisions and big, bold actions are making a positive impact on the recovery of our regional economy. We are proud to recognize each of this year’s Economic Champions and are grateful for the progress they are helping drive in our region.”

Community Visionary Award

JMA Wireless, located at 7645 Henry Clay Boulevard in Clay, has committed to move the manufacturing of 5G equipment from Texas to the Coyne building, south of downtown Syracuse. The firm will also create about 100 jobs, per an Oct. 9, 2019 news release from the office of then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

JMA, which focuses on 4G and 5G software-based technology, is spending $25 million to create a 5G high-tech manufacturing center in downtown Syracuse.

“JMA is honored to receive this year’s Community Visionary Award,” John Mezzalingua, CEO of JMA, said. “The 5G Syracuse campus is the culmination of a bold vision that will not only put Syracuse at the cutting edge of developing this technology to compete in the 21st century economy but will contribute to this community’s growth and prosperity. We are excited to be part of Syracuse’s continued renaissance and are grateful for this recognition.”

Event speaker

The event also featured remarks from guest speaker Eddie Brennan, president and co-owner of Beak & Skiff Apple Farms Inc., who shared his company’s story of growth and innovation.

Celebrating its 110th anniversary this year and five generations of family ownership, Beak & Skiff has “evolved, diversified its business, and broadened operations into an award-winning destination, while remaining true to its roots,” per the CenterState CEO news release.