Q: How did the creation of ONE Lorain County come about?
A:
Many companies don’t want to reveal their plans in a government setting where they’ll become public information. That’s led to lost opportunities. A few years ago, the Lorain County Chamber of Commerce, with the support of Team NEO — our regional economic development organization — decided it was time to launch an organization that will work with companies until they’re ready to have information shared in a more public manner.
Q: What impresses you most about the county from a business standpoint?
A: We’re very resilient. There was a time when the leading employers were automotive and steel industries, which we can no longer rely on. With the help of Lorain County Community College leadership and our communities, we continue to be relevant in the new economy.
Q: What attracted you to the job?
A:
I served as the director of the Small Business Development Center at Lorain County Community College for eight years, and I loved it. This role not only allows me to continue working with entrepreneurs and small businesses, but also with mid- to large-size companies.
Q: What do you love most about Lorain County?
A:
I love the people. The fact that they’re very devoted to Lorain County, want to see it succeed and enjoy working with others who live here is very exciting. Anything you want to engage in — from lively arts to beautiful parks to fine dining — you can find right here.
Q: What is the mission of ONE Lorain County?
A:
We have four main objectives: Bring businesses that aren’t currently in Lorain County into Lorain County; help existing businesses stay and grow here; relay the message of what employers are looking for in the area of workforce training to make sure there’s open dialogue and understanding about their needs and what training partners are offering; and ensure sites for new businesses are shovel-ready with procedures including proper zoning, environmental testing and utility installation completed before ground
is broken.
