Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Lee.
Hi Brittany, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I never expected to run a cotton gin. But in May of 2022, exactly one year to the day after losing my mother to cancer, I stepped in to help Edgecombe Cotton Growers temporarily with office management. What began as a short-term favor quickly turned into something deeper. I often tell people “I didn’t find the gin, it found me. At it’s lowest moment, and at mine, we showed up for each other. And that’s where everything changed.”
My passion and appreciation for this work wasn’t immediate. It was built over time. Through showing up, solving problems, and earning trust. I learned the systems, the challenges, and the pressure farmers face each season. Over time, what started as a temporary role became somthing I felt personally responsible for protecting and improving.
The results spoke for themselves after my first ginning season. By staying hands-on, consistent, and accountable I earned the trust and respect of both the board of directors and the growers we serve. Just shy of one year on the job, the board asked me to step into the role of manager of total operations, recognizing not only the progress that had been made, but the leadership and dedication behind it.
As we began to regain momentum, I was approached by an outside company with an offer to leave ECG to bring my talents to their team. I declined. When that didn’t work, they attempted to buy the gin outright with the intention of shuting it down.
I didn’t hesitate. I knew where I belonged. This board trusted me, and these farmers believed in me. No offer was worth walking away from that. Instead, I worked alongside the board to help secure local ownership shares and preserve the gin’s independence, keeping ECG rooted in the community that built it.
Today, Edgecombe Cotton Growers is becoming known for reliability, performance, and integrity. This work is personal to me. I didn’t plan this path, but I chose to stay and step up when it mattered. This isn’t just about cotton, it’s about legacy. This gin is part of Edgecombe County’s agriculture identity, and I’m committed to protecting it for today’s growers, and the generations that follow.
As you know, we’re big fans of Edgecombe Cotton Growers. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Edgecombe Cotton Growers is a farmer-founded and owned cotton gin and warehouse built to serve the growers who depend on it. Our role is to provide reliable, efficient ginning services while protecting the quality and value of each farmer’s crop. What we do may look simple from the outside, but timing, consistency, and trust are everything in this business.
What sets us apart is our commitment to communication, accountability, and local ownership. We do not believe in cutting corners or rushing at the expense of quality or safety. Doing things right the first time matters here.
Brand-wise, I am most proud that ECG is known as a gin that shows up for its farmers. We’re rooted in the community, locally owned, and focused on long-term sustainability rather than short-term gains. I want readers to understand that ECG isn’t just a place to gin cotton, it’s a partner farmers can count on season after season.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is watching my parents build and run their own businesses. I didn’t realize it at the time, but seeing their work ethic, problem-solving, and independence left a lasting impression on me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.edgecombecotton.com
