CLICK TO HEAR JACK HALL’S INTERVIEW WITH THOMAS
The Board of Directors of the Delta County Economic Development Alliance (EDA) selected TJ Thomas as the next Executive Director of the organization following an extensive search. Thomas will replace Vicki Schwab, who took a role with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation after seven highly productive years serving as EDA Executive Director. Thomas will assume his duties effective immediately.
Thomas, a Gladstone native and graduate of both Bay de Noc Community College and Michigan Technological University, previously served as Executive Assistant to the EDA Director prior to spending several years in a professional sales role in the steel sector in the Seattle, WA and Washington DC areas. He, along with his wife, Sissi (C.C.), jumped at the opportunity to return home to Delta County to enjoy the excellent quality of life unique to the area.
“The EDA has been highly respected for many years by providing best practices in achieving economic development excellence in Delta County,” stated Thomas. “It is an absolute privilege to re-join the outstanding team at the Delta County Commerce Center and accept the responsibilities of executing the EDA’s mission. Working with the EDA board, I will strive to understand the challenges and opportunities presented to Delta County and work closely with our many partners to continue earning the EDA’s reputation as an asset in fostering a dynamic economic environment in Delta County.”
EDA Board President Tom Butch stated, “We had a pool of excellent individuals apply and feel very lucky to be able to bring an individual of TJ’s skills and character back to Delta County and the EDA. His professional background, demonstrated understanding of Delta County’s businesses and enthusiasm for the role caught the hiring committee’s attention. Special thanks go to my fellow Committee members and also to Darcy Long (Gladstone City Manager), Phil Strom (Delta County Administrator) and Bill Raymond (UPWARD Talent Council/Michigan Works CEO), who assisted the process. The Board also extends our gratitude to Vicki Schwab for her many years of leadership and unmatched loyalty to Delta County.”
