Ziehl-Abegg Inc. proudly announces that Carmen Deese, Director of Human Resources, has been named one of Triad Business Journal’s Outstanding Women in Business for 2025.
This prestigious recognition honors women in the Triad region who demonstrate exceptional leadership, vision, and impact in their industries and communities.
Ziehl-Abegg’s rapid growth
Deese was formally honored at a ceremony held on April 23, 2025, where she joined a distinguished group of professionals recognized for breaking barriers and driving meaningful change across business, government, and nonprofit sectors.
In her role at Ziehl-Abegg, Carmen has been instrumental in building the North American HR infrastructure to support the company’s rapid growth. Her leadership was pivotal during the opening of Ziehl-Abegg’s new North American headquarters in Winston-Salem—a facility that represents the company’s single largest global investment to date.
Prior roles of Carmen
Carmen has championed a culture of inclusivity, mentorship, and continuous development
Beyond organizational growth, Carmen has championed a culture of inclusivity, mentorship, and continuous development. She created and implemented workplace policies that support the whole employee—including expanded parental leave, a floating holiday, and other family-friendly benefits—which led Ziehl-Abegg to earn Family Forward NC Certification in 2024.
That same year, her commitment to shaping a supportive and forward-thinking workplace earned her the inaugural HR Impact Award from the Triad Business Journal. Through these initiatives, she has strengthened employee engagement, enhanced workplace culture, and helped position Ziehl-Abegg as an employer of choice.
Carmen’s passion for workforce
“Carmen’s passion for people and her ability to build systems that empower our workforce make her an extraordinary pioneer,” said Jimmy Mitchell, Managing Director of Ziehl-Abegg Inc. “We’re incredibly proud to see her honored for the lasting impact she’s making not just within our organization, but across the region.”
Reflecting on the award, Carmen shared: “It’s a privilege to be recognized among such a remarkable group of women. I’m proud to work for a company that values innovation and people equally—and that’s where transformation happens.”
Carmen’s leadership
In addition to her volunteer work, Carmen frequently serves on local business and industry panels
Carmen’s leadership extends beyond Ziehl-Abegg. She is deeply committed to giving back to the community, volunteering with organizations such as the Kellin Foundation, which supports mental health and resilience, and the Choral Arts Collective, where she contributes to fostering arts and culture in the Triad.
In addition to her volunteer work, Carmen frequently serves on local business and industry panels, advocating for initiatives that strengthen the regional talent pipeline and bring critical workforce development topics to the forefront.
Carmen's continued commitment
Through her community engagement, she continues to champion broader access to education, career growth, well-being, and cultural enrichment across the region.
Ziehl-Abegg congratulates Carmen on this well-deserved honor and celebrates her continued commitment to shaping a stronger, more inclusive manufacturing workforce.
