LaborExchange Recognized as Woman-Owned Business Excellence Recipient at Pinnacle Business Awards

The Knoxville Chamber is pleased to announce LaborExchange as the recipient of the Pinnacle Business Award in the Woman-Owned Business Excellence category. LaborExchange specializes in providing high-caliber staffing support across several sectors including hospitality, manufacturing, general labor, and construction. The Woman-Owned Business Excellence Award, sponsored by KaTom Restaurant Supply, is presented to an outstanding East Tennessee woman-owned business.

“As a company in the staffing industry, our goal is to connect people with work, whether it’s on a daily or weekly basis. To be able to place someone in a role that truly works for them—that’s what makes this work so fulfilling,” said Kelly Peterson, owner of LaborExchange.

LaborExchange was founded in 2013 by Kelly’s late husband, who brought his background in HR into the staffing industry. After his passing in 2018, Kelly stepped into the leadership role, facing the challenge of carrying on his vision while making the company her own. Through determination and a passion for connecting people with work, she has transformed LaborExchange into a growing and impactful business.

“Kelly and LaborExchange are helping solve workforce issues by placing talent where they are most likely to flourish,” said Mike Odom, Knoxville Chamber president and CEO. “Companies benefit from the quality support and employees find roles that suit their abilities. It’s a win-win.”

The annual Pinnacle Business Awards, presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners, celebrate regional business excellence, honoring outstanding professionals in nine categories for their contributions to the greater Knoxville economy. Winners are selected by the Knoxville Chamber Board of Directors. Approximately 200 companies are nominated annually for recognition.

“Congratulations to the 2025 Pinnacle Business Award winners,” said Mike DiStefano, Pinnacle’s Knoxville president. “Pinnacle Financial Partners is a values-driven organization. So many of the values we focus on – integrity, results, discipline – are also evident in this year’s winners. We know it takes an unwavering focus and commitment of leadership to make any business work, and we are proud to recognize these Knoxville-area companies and individuals for their business excellence. Pinnacle looks forward to supporting and seeing these organizations flourish as we all work together toward the same goal: a prosperous Knoxville economy.”

For in-depth video interviews and more information on the 2025 Pinnacle Business Award recipients, visit www.knoxvillechamber.com/pinnacle.