Join us in welcoming new CARW member, Heather Smith from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. Read more about Heather below –
Name: Heather Smith
Title: Senior Director of Business & Investment Attraction
Email: heather.smith@wedc.org
Phone: (608) 210-6740
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-c-smith-edfp-cpm-a86a037/
Heather C. Smith, EDFP, CPM is a seasoned economic development professional with a strong track record in business and investment attraction, community development, and stakeholder engagement. As the Senior Director of Business & Investment Attraction at the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), Heather leads efforts to position Wisconsin as a prime location for investment, fostering strategic collaborations with economic development partners, educational institutions, industry leaders, and commercial and industrial real estate professionals.
Previously, Heather held the role of Regional Economic Development Director at WEDC, where she managed community and business accounts in western Wisconsin, providing technical assistance and facilitating significant investments and job creation.
Before joining WEDC, Heather was the Director of Economic Development for the City of Fort Scott, Kansas. In this role, she coordinated and implemented programs supporting commercial, office, and industrial expansion, workforce development, and infrastructure projects. Heather successfully negotiated complex agreements, secured significant grant funding, and spearheaded local leadership and entrepreneurship initiatives.
Earlier in her career, Heather worked at Peerless Products, Inc., where she led a team of project managers and oversaw commercial projects nationwide. Her efforts in process improvement and marketing contributed to operational efficiency and increased sales.
With a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Emporia State University and various certifications in economic development and public management, Heather is dedicated to driving economic growth and fostering vibrant communities. An active member of several professional organizations, Heather is committed to continuous learning and community engagement.
Q) What is the best piece of advice you have received?
A) When things don’t go as planned, improvise, adapt, and overcome.
Q) What is your favorite quote?
A) You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” C.S. Lewis
Q) Where did you grow up?
A) Saratoga Springs, New York
Q) What projects are you involved/most excited about?
A) Projects that have a significant positive community impact–providing good-paying jobs and increasing the tax base.
Q) What do you hope to get out of your membership with CARW?
A) Networking and knowledge.