EDC names new top executive

Missi Currier has been named the new president/CEO of the Economic Development Corporation of Lea County.

The nationwide search, conducted by Mike Barnes, of the Mike Barnes Group, brought in applicants from all over the country and Currier accepted the position. Currier comes to the EDCLC with an extensive background in community/ government relations, development and communications.

“Lea County is comprised of wonderful communities with continued promise and opportunity,” Currier said. “I am excited to join an organization that not only strives to diversify and continue to build an already strong economic engine but ensures Lea County is a great place to live, work and play. “

Currier, a 2004 graduate of Carlsbad High School, has worked as a community and governmental relations advisor for XTO Energy, community and governmental relations coordinator for the Nuclear Waste Partnership and director of external relations for the Office of the President at Texas Tech University. Currier received her bachelor of science in agricultural communications, master of science in agricultural communications and doctor of philosophy in agricultural communications and education from Texas Tech University.

“I am pleased to welcome Missi Currier to the Economic Development Corporation of Lea County as our president/ CEO,” chairman of the EDC board, R. Finn Smith, stated, “I have had the pleasure of working with Missi on numerous activities relating to the economic development of Lea County. As a lifelong resident of the region, Missi will utilize the relationships and respect she has garnered during her professional career to further the mission of the EDC.”

“I look forward to working with Ms. Missi Courier to further enhance the strong economy of Lea County,” said Josh Grassham, the incoming chair of the EDC. “The relationships that Missi has developed with community leaders in Lea County through her previous positions will be a tremendous asset to our organization. I am excited about the future of Lea County, and I know that Missi will be a great addition to the EDCLC team.”

Currier will replace Steve Vierck on July 1. Vierck resigned May 10 to take a position in Santa Fe with the State Land Office on May 20. His new position with the State Land Office is economic advisor to the state land commissioner. Vierck had been the president/CEO of the EDC for three years. Prior to Hobbs, Vierck had done stints in economic development in New Mexico and Arizona.

Barnes has served as the interim president while the search for Vierck’s replacement took place.

Established in 1963, the Economic Development Corporation of Lea County is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to recruiting new, quality businesses to Lea County and assisting with the retention and expansion of existing industry. The EDC also receives funding from the City of Hobbs and Lea County for specific projects and work, including funding to support FlyHobbs.