Firsthand experience in virtually all textile manufacturing jobs helped Donald Warren relate to his employees. He said meager beginnings making 50 cents an hour at a mill in Alabama six decades ago led to his corporate success.
Working in textile warehouses and weave rooms developed his skills. Once he became president and CEO, he knew the facets of every job. Warren retired 16 years ago from the top job at the now defunct China Grove Textiles Inc., a yarn-producing company based in Gastonia.
Eight hundred employees reported to him. Before that, he worked as president and CEO of Marion Manufacturing Co. in Marion, overseeing the making of fancy woven fabrics.
Warren, 80, is the recipient of the Duke Energy Citizenship Award from the Gaston Regional Chamber.
He’ll receive the honor at a celebratory dinner on Feb. 20. He and his wife of 60 years, Mary Ann Warren, are planning a getaway in July to fish for halibut in Alaska. He credits his professional success to her encouragement.
The award Warren will receive recognizes someone who makes a difference in their community or workplace. He’s honored for using time, talent and compassion to impact others’ lives.
“I can look around the community and see many people worthy of this award. I’m humbled,” he said.
He enjoys dedicating time to helping with projects of the Rotary Club of Gastonia.
Warren worked in textiles for 47 years. Two philosophies guided the way he conducted business as CEO and president of China Grove Textiles. He worked to make the company profitable and treat all employees fairly.
“I wanted every employee to enjoy their work as we made a profit,” he said.
You can reach Wade Allen at 704-869-1828 or twitter.com/GazetteWade.
Want to go? What: Gaston Regional Chamber annual celebration presented by CaroMont Health When: Feb. 20. Reception starts at 6 p.m., dinner and program at 7 p.m. Where: Gastonia Conference Center Cost: $100 per person
To attend: Register at www.gastonchamber.com