3 Fun Facts
I used to be a professional and competitive figure skater (I secretly love the cold).- I love exploring new coffee shops as a way to get to know a city.
- And, I absolutely love traveling and learning about different cultures, especially through food.
What would you tell your younger self about economic development?
I would tell my younger self that economic development is far more interdisciplinary than it seems as it’s not just about data or policy, but also about relationships, storytelling, and long-term vision. I’d also say to be patient; the impact of your work may take years to fully materialize, but it’s incredibly meaningful!
What’s something you wish you knew before starting your current role?
I wish I had fully understood just how relationship-driven economic development is. While technical skills and data analysis are important, building trust with partners, stakeholders, and community members is just as critical to success. I also didn’t realize how much adaptability the role requires, for example, priorities can shift quickly based on market conditions or project needs. Along with this, I’ve learned that no two projects are the same, which keeps the work exciting but also requires a willingness to continuously learn. Understanding these aspects earlier would have helped me approach the role with even more confidence from the start.
What advice do you have for up-and-coming economic developers?
Build strong relationships early and invest time in networking. And most importantly, remember that the work you do has a real impact on communities, which makes it both a responsibility and a privilege!
What’s a recent economic development/career win you have experienced?
The biggest win for me has been joining the research team at GPEC and seeing how my work directly impacts and informs decision-making for companies and stakeholders daily. Being part of regional efforts that directly support economic growth and job creation has been both rewarding and motivating, especially seeing how collaborative work translates into tangible outcomes for the community!
Who do you look up to in the field, and what advice might you give young professionals about mentorship?
I’ve been fortunate to work with and learn from incredible professionals in the field. Cameron Robb (APS), Christine Mackay and Thomas Maynard from GPEC, and Dean Howard (Integrity Building Corp) have all been outstanding role models as I continue to grow in my career. They’ve shown me that mentorship isn’t just valuable when starting a new role but it’s also essential for receiving feedback, staying engaged, and continuously developing over time.
My advice to young professionals is to be proactive in seeking mentorship and to always come prepared with thoughtful questions!
