3 Fun Facts
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- I was born and raised on the sunny shores of Santa Barbra, California.
- I’m pretty good at Connect Four.
- Every other week I spend my evenings teaching and connecting with kids ages three to twelve at my church.
What’s a recent economic development/career win you experienced?
I’m proud of the role I have played in the conception and development of a Dynamic Dashboard and Project Tracker as an Economic Development Specialist for the City of Buckeye. This project has required patience and steadfast commitment. Still, by staying diligent and collaborating with the city’s GIS team, Our Economic Development Projects Dashboard has proven to be a game-changer for us to manage and attract projects.
What’s something you wish you knew prior to starting your current role?
I wish I had been aware of the remarkable world of Economic Development. It’s a field that seems to be one of the industry’s best-kept secrets. It wasn’t until my junior year in college that I stumbled upon this hidden gem when I had the privilege of interning with the City of Buckeye. I look forward to spreading awareness in the field to a new generation of economic developers.
What’s your favorite part of working in the city of Buckeye?
What makes this experience truly exceptional is the collective spirit of the exceptional individuals I work alongside, whose dedication has been instrumental in shaping the vision and orchestrating the growth of Buckeye. This synergy within our team is what fuels my passion for my work in Buckeye, as we continue to build a better future for all who call Buckeye their home. At 640 square miles, Buckeye proudly stands as Arizona’s largest city, and its remarkable ascent as one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities is a testament to the vibrant community it encompasses. I feel truly fortunate to have embarked on this adventure, joining the city’s dynamic team shortly after completing my studies at ASU in 2021.
Who do you look up to in the field and what advice might you give to emerging leaders about mentorship?
Mentorship is crucial to both personal and professional development. I have had the privilege of being guided by many remarkable mentors like Tom Doyle from the Town of El Mirage and Suzie Boyles from the City of Buckeye. If I were to offer advice to young professionals embarking on their career journeys, it would be to seize every opportunity to engage with and learn from individuals whose path they aspire to follow. Absorb their wisdom, perspectives, and life experiences like a sponge because it is within these interactions that the foundations of inspiration and personal development are established.
What advice do you have for up-and-coming economic developers?
Embrace opportunities with open arms. It’s essential not to confine yourself to what you believe, know, or prefer. Instead, be open to trying new things and accept the challenges and opportunities that accompany them. This mindset of exploration and adaptability will fuel your personal and professional growth and lead to exciting possibilities in your career.