The City of Winslow recently announced the appointment of Jack Fitchett as the city’s new economic development director. Fitchett, who holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Arizona, is a certified economic development professional within the state.
Fitchett’s career path includes roles in various local government entities. He notably served as a management analyst in the city manager’s office in Flagstaff before transitioning to the role of business attraction manager in Flagstaff’s Economic Vitality Division, a position he held for four years.
During his tenure in Flagstaff, Fitchett was instrumental in attracting UACJ Automotive Whitehall Industries, an electric vehicle parts manufacturer, to the city. This significant development was recognized as the “Deal of the Year” by the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) and the Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED). The arrival of UACJ Automotive Whitehall Industries to Flagstaff promised over 350 new jobs and a capital investment of $65 million, marking a major boost to the local economy and reflecting Fitchett’s ability to draw high-tech and future-oriented industries to the area.
In 2022, Fitchett earned the title of “New Member of the Year” from the AAED and in 2023, he became the youngest elected member of theAAED Board of Directors. Additionally, he has been the chair of the Business Attraction Committee for the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona since 2021.
In his new role at Winslow, Fitchett is set to focus on housing, business attraction, and business retention and expansion. He has emphasized Winslow’s logistical strengths, such as its access to the BNSF railway, Interstate 40, and the regional airport, along with the city’s ample land and water resources. Fitchett aims to be a proactive advocate for the Winslow business community, aiding local businesses and attracting new employment opportunities, especially in innovative sectors like electric vehicle manufacturing.
Fitchett’s appointment is a strategic move for Winslow as the city seeks to strengthen its economic position and capitalize on new opportunities for growth. His experience in attracting cutting-edge industries and his recognized achievements in economic development are poised to significantly influence his approach in this vital role for the City of Winslow.
