3 Fun Facts 
- I was born in Compton, California, a place that continues to be an important part of who I am.
- I’ve had the opportunity to meet a few notable NBA players, including Elfrid Payton, Avery Bradley, and Marc Gasol.
- One of my most memorable experiences was attending a UEFA Champions League match between FC Barcelona and Benfica in Barcelona, Spain.
What would you tell your younger self about economic development?
I would tell my younger self that one day, I’d find a fulfilling path in economic development, even though I once imagined becoming a historian. Back then, I thought economic development was mainly about bringing jobs to a community, which is certainly important, but it is only part of the picture. I have since learned it also involves fostering tourism, supporting small and micro-businesses, and collaborating with a wide range of partners and institutions. Most importantly, I’d tell my younger self about the incredible people I’ve met along the way.
What’s something you wish you knew before starting your current role?
One of the biggest things I wish I had known before starting my current role is how different the pace would be compared to my previous experience. For three years, I worked at the Better Business Bureau Serving the Pacific Southwest, Central & Inland California, where I was very hands-on in supporting the small business community. Transitioning to the City of Peoria, I quickly realized that working within a municipal government brings a different rhythm. While the pace may be different, I still find ways to stay actively engaged—especially by being hands-on with programs that allow us to directly support and uplift local entrepreneurs.
Who do you look up to in the field, and what advice might you give young professionals about mentorship?
I look up to many individuals in the field of economic development, especially those working in the West Valley. No matter the question or challenge, I have found that I can reach out and gain valuable insight or a new approach from experienced professionals in the region. When it comes to mentorship, one key piece of advice I’d offer young professionals is to seek out mentors you feel genuinely comfortable. It is also important to remember that mentorship doesn’t have to come from just one person; having multiple mentors for different areas of your personal and professional growth can be incredibly beneficial.
What advice do you have for up-and-coming economic developers?
One piece of advice I always share with up-and-coming professionals, is to never underestimate the value of your accomplishments. Every step you have taken to get where you have made an impact, even if it doesn’t always feel that way. You were chosen for your role or promotion because your work mattered and made a difference. It’s also essential to carry a sense of ambition; without it, it becomes difficult to give your full effort or push beyond challenges. Ambition drives purpose—and in this field, purpose drives real change in communities.
What’s a recent economic development/career win you have experienced?
A recent win in my economic development career was being part of an exciting new partnership between the City of Peoria and Grand Canyon University, specifically with the Colangelo College of Business. We successfully launched the first month of a multi-month entrepreneurial training program designed to support and empower local small business owners. One standout success was Nikki Ortega, owner of Spicy Sassy Dulces, who won $4,000 through our pitch competition. From outreach and vetting to logistics and coaching entrepreneurs through their pitches, I’m proud of the direct impact we’re making. I’m looking forward to continuing this momentum in the upcoming sessions in June, August, and October.
