Charlotte, North Carolina, now a thriving center of finance and culture, traces its roots back to 1768. Named for Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, it began as a small trading post in the Carolina Piedmont. Its strategic location quickly made it a key hub for commerce and transportation.

During the Revolutionary War, Charlotte earned the nickname “The Hornet’s Nest” due to its fierce resistance against British forces. Over the 19th century, Charlotte grew steadily, thanks to the development of railroads and the rise of the textile industry, which played a crucial role in shaping the city’s economy.

IRCAD North America is a part of Charlotte’s innovation district –  The Pearl located in the area historically known as the Brooklyn neighborhood which holds deep historical significance as one of Charlotte’s first African American communities, known for its strong cultural heritage and resilience. Though much of Brooklyn was lost to urban renewal in the 1960s, its legacy of cultural strength and resilience remains deeply woven into the identity of Charlotte and The Pearl.

The 20th century brought significant transformation, as Charlotte emerged as a key financial center, home to some of the largest banking institutions in the United States. Today, Charlotte blends its historic charm with modern innovation, making it a dynamic city that honors its past while looking toward the future.