"Lead by example with integrity, purpose, and accountability; Adapt to rapidly changing environments; Build upon the talents of others to strengthen our collective impact; Face adversity with moral courage, without fear, while driving progress; Advocate for small business and a higher quality of life and place for all."
Get to know Mike
How long have you worked in economic development?
16 years.
How did you enter the economic development profession?
Began involvement with economic development as a board member for the Otero County Economic Development Council and Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce. In 2007, I became the CEO of these two organizations and have been working in the field ever since.
What is your favorite thing about working in economic development?
Advocating for small business to bring our community a higher quality of life.
Tell us about the community or organization you represent.
While known internationally for the 1947 UFO Incident, Roswell is also a vibrant community of 48,163 and numbering over 66,000 in greater Chaves County. Our community sits directly alongside the Pecos Valley and serves as the economic and cultural hub of Southeastern New Mexico.
What makes your community a great place for business and people to thrive?
Our low cost of living, low property tax rates, and terrific weather make Roswell a great place to call home and to conduct business. A leader in the aviation industry, Roswell is home to the Roswell Air Center--the site of the former Walker Air Force Base--with daily flights to Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW). We have over 2500 acres of available industrial land and approximately 400,000 SF of spec building space.
Tell us about your favorite place/thing to do in your community.
Roswell, a town of just under 50,000 is home to three quality golf courses--available year round! This is my favorite pastime when I'm in town on the weekends.
If you had a message to those considering a career in economic development, what would it be and why should they enter the field?
Lead by example with integrity, purpose, and accountability; Adapt to rapidly changing environments; Build upon the talents of others to strengthen our collective impact; Face adversity with moral courage, without fear, while driving progress; Advocate for small business and a higher quality of life and place for all.
Share your favorite quote or the best piece of advice that has helped to guide your professional development.
Return every single call because it is so important for entrepreneurs.
What does economic development mean to you?
To be the best resource for economic opportunity; a place where companies create new jobs and businesses thrive for a better quality of place of everyone.