CARROLL, OH – The future of economic development isn’t coming to central Ohio. It’s already here. As the Columbus region continues to emerge as a major player in the national economy, new industries, workforce opportunities and significant infrastructure investments are transforming the region’s economic landscape. Fairfield County is helping drive that momentum, positioning itself for continued growth and new opportunities.
The Fairfield 33 Development Alliance invites business leaders, elected officials and community members to explore what’s driving this transformation and what lies ahead at the annual Fairfield County Economic Update on Tuesday, Dec. 15, at the Fairfield County Workforce Center, 4465 Coonpath Road NW in Carroll.
Expected to bring together more than 200 attendees, the event offers an opportunity to gain insight into the trends, investments and initiatives shaping the region’s economic future. Guests will hear about recent accomplishments, ongoing developments and the critical role that a diverse economic base, skilled workforce and improved infrastructure are playing in supporting continued growth.
This year’s featured speakers are Jonas Peterson, chief economic development officer and president of One Columbus, and Daren Griffin, president and CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority. Together, they will share perspectives on the opportunities and investments positioning the Columbus region for long-term economic success.
“What impresses me most about Fairfield County is its commitment to collaboration,” Peterson said. “Fairfield County understands that the best possible outcomes happen when communities, businesses, schools and regional partners work side by side toward a shared strategic vision. That collaborative approach is essential as we continue to strengthen our workforce, invest in infrastructure and create new opportunities for economic growth throughout the Columbus region.”
As the region continues to attract new industries and expand its economic reach, transportation infrastructure remains a key component of that growth. Investments in air travel and cargo operations are strengthening connections to national and global markets, creating new opportunities for businesses throughout central Ohio.
“Air transportation plays a critical role in supporting economic development throughout the Columbus region,” Griffin said. “Through a new terminal and expanded passenger services at John Glenn Columbus International Airport and continued growth in logistics and commercial operations at Rickenbacker International Airport, we are strengthening connections that help businesses compete and communities thrive. These investments are essential to positioning our region for future success.”
The event will begin with breakfast and networking at 8 a.m., followed by presentations from the featured speakers. Business leaders, elected officials and community members attending will be able to connect with regional leaders, explore the forces driving economic growth and learn what’s next for Fairfield County and the Columbus region.
The Annual Economic Update is free and open to the public, and individuals are encouraged to register in advance through the Fairfield County Economic Update registration page on the Lancaster Fairfield County Chamber of Commerce website (opens in a new tab on an external site). For additional information, call 740-652-7163 or email vince.carpico@fairfieldcountyohio.gov.
For media inquiries, contact Julie Theado at julie@krilecommunications.com