3 Fun Facts 
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I am irrationally terrified by crocodilians.
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Steve Irwin is still my hero.
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My home is currently out-numbered pets to people due to the stray cat & litter I’m fostering! Plenty of kitten videos to share, though!
What would you tell your younger self about economic development?
When I was younger I had a really narrow view of what “economic development” meant… I would educate my younger self on the wide variety of options that touch on the realms of the industry: tourism, construction, and sustainability – together, we all rise!
What’s something you wish you knew before starting your current role?
You can never be too much of an expert on what’s going on in your own neighborhood! A foundation of informational knowledge of “who is headquartered where,” “what my neighbors are concerned about,” and “what’s coming to the area” can provide an endless source of content to educate oneself on…. and it helps provide a common thread of conversation when networking!
Who do you look up to in the field, and what advice might you give young professionals about mentorship?
One of the most helpful mentors I’ve had in my recent career journey has been the wonderful Katie Provost with VisitPhoenix. Katie is not only one of the most positive and approachable professionals in the Valley—she is a real “connector of people” and has an AMAZING wealth of knowledge on the happenings and developments of the Greater Phoenix Area.
What advice do you have for up-and-coming economic developers?
Find a destination, a product, or a cause that you LOVE! We’re all salespeople, marketers, and analysts on some level – being able to put passion into what you’re doing can make all the difference!
What’s a recent economic development/career win you have experienced?
I am excited to share that I have been recently elected to the Arizona Board of Directors as their Director of Membership.
Additionally, I am proud to be recently certified as a “Global Travel Professional (GTP)” through the Global Business Travel Association. I hope the certification shows that I have developed a nuanced understanding of the many diverse needs of different guests.
I am honored to be a part of a few different community organizations in addition to AAED; including Phoenix Pride, Millennials in Travel, Greater Phoenix Equality Chamber.
