91探花

A region's economic health depends on its ability to adapt, innovate, and grow. In Athens County, efforts to create sustainable economic opportunities are centered on strategic initiatives that attract high-wage jobs and support local industries. Mollie Fitzgerald, BSC '13, MPA 鈥�18, executive director of the , is a key member in these initiatives.

Fitzgerald is actively involved in a from the that will fund a 60,000-square-foot facility at the . This facility is designed to bolster advanced manufacturing and biotechnology in the region, providing essential space for companies in these growing sectors.

"Two primary goals of the ACEDC are to create living-wage jobs and diversify the local economy," said Fitzgerald. "This new facility allows us to attract companies in targeted sectors like biotechnology and advanced manufacturing, which offer jobs that are well-paying and accessible to a range of educational backgrounds."

The broader economic impact of these developments extends into the surrounding communities, with every job created fostering additional opportunities through indirect employment and local spending.

"We know that advanced industries like biotechnology have a multiplier effect on local economies," says Fitzgerald. "For every 50 jobs directly created, another 30 are indirectly supported through local services, sales, and output."

This emphasis on job creation with lasting local benefits has become a hallmark of Fitzgerald鈥檚 strategy to revitalize southeast Ohio.

Investing in Ohio鈥檚 infrastructure for innovation

While the new facility at the Bill Theisen Industrial Park is a major milestone, Fitzgerald is already looking ahead.

"To truly foster innovation and attract high-tech companies, we need to support the expansion of infrastructure and address other challenges that impact our ability to compete such as the lack of housing stock and workforce availability,鈥� Fitzgerald said.  

Fitzgerald and the are spearheading another project in the Village of Albany, where they plan to develop a state-of-the-art industrial park specifically designed for advanced technology and manufacturing companies. This effort, bolstered by significant investment in utility extensions, roadway, and rail infrastructure, is set to create a hub for innovation in the region.

Sustainable, scalable opportunities for all residents

Fitzgerald's work is fundamentally collaborative. As the leader of a public-private partnership, she coordinates efforts across government, education, and business sectors.

"The ACEDC's board includes representatives from local municipalities, government entities, and private companies, ensuring that we address both public and business interests," said Fitzgerald.

The council works closely with regional organizations like , , and the to streamline their efforts and meet workforce needs.

Projects like the , which is leveraging the increased foot traffic from the , are key examples of how small towns can capitalize on local assets for economic gain.

"We鈥檙e looking at the long-term impact," Fitzgerald noted, "and making sure that we create sustainable, scalable opportunities that benefit the communities and the residents in those communities."

Shaping Southeast Ohio鈥檚 future through public-private partnerships

Fitzgerald鈥檚 success in spearheading these projects stems from her understanding of the importance of public-private partnerships.

"The public-private partnership model is essential for projects like these to succeed," she explained. "It鈥檚 not just about financing; it's about bringing together the right partners who can contribute resources, expertise, and long-term vision."

She credits her ability to navigate these complexities to her experience in 91探花鈥檚 Executive Master of Public Administration (Executive MPA) program. According to Fitzgerald, courses in public-private partnerships and budgeting were particularly valuable in preparing her for the leadership role she now holds.

"The Executive MPA helped me understand what kind of leader I am, which is critical when managing large-scale projects and bringing diverse stakeholders together."

Innovating in Southeast Ohio, with national potential

While Fitzgerald's focus remains on Athens County, her work has potential far beyond the local community. By focusing on infrastructure and industry development, Fitzgerald is laying the groundwork for economic models that could serve as blueprints for other rural regions across the country.

"Though we鈥檙e a county organization, we are constantly looking at national trends to inform our local strategy," she said. "Many of the challenges we face鈥攍ike diversifying a traditionally resource-based economy鈥攁re challenges faced by rural communities across the U.S."

By staying ahead of these trends and fostering industries with promising potential growth, Fitzgerald and the ACEDC are positioning Athens County to compete on a broader scale. 

"Our approach isn鈥檛 just about attracting companies鈥攊t鈥檚 about creating an ecosystem where businesses can grow, innovate, and contribute to the local and national economy," Fitzgerald explained.

An OHIO grad鈥檚 advice for future leaders

Fitzgerald is a firm believer in the power of partnerships, whether they are public-private collaborations or personal professional relationships, and her work in Athens County is a testament to that belief.

For those looking to follow in her footsteps and lead similar initiatives, Fitzgerald offered this advice:

"Stay in touch with the people you meet along the way鈥攚hether it's professors, classmates, or colleagues. They will become part of your professional network and will be key resources for the rest of your career."