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Posts Tagged ‘Commissioner Jeffrey Rose’

Annual Awards Presented at NHEconomy Annual Meeting

Monday, December 5th, 2016

The 21st annual meeting of the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development is in the books and what a terrific day it was at the Grappone Center in Concord on Dec. 1.

A highlight every year is the presentation of awards to businesses selected by Department of Resources and Economic Development Commissioner Jeffrey Rose. The awards recognize the valuable contributions businesses and agencies make each year that keep our state economy strong and vibrant.

This year’s selections were:

barbone

Commissioner Jeffrey Rose recognized Methuen Construction for Excellence in Government Contracting at the annual meeting Dec. 1 of the Division of Economic Development. Accepting the award was Joe Barbone, company president and CEO. Methuen Construction, which recently opened a new facility in Plaistow, has worked with the New Hampshire Government Contracting Assistance Center for over five years, winning bids to do extensive work at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

hitech

Rose presented the Teamwork award to Micheline Dufour and Matt Cookson of the NH High Technology Council, praising the council for its advocacy of the state’s growing hi tech scene and its leadership in the launch of the technology talent partnership to bolster the sector’s workforce.

chapman

Rose’s MVP award went to Bob Chapman. He praised Chapman for the work he is done in revitalizing the former paper mill sites in Groveton. Rose noted that Chapman recognized the value of the property and its value for future economic development in the region. Chapman’s hard work has paid off, with the expansion of St. Johnsbury, Vt. – based NSA Industries at the site.

bittware

Rose recognized Bittware of Concord for Excellence in Exporting. Accepting the award was Darren Taylor, senior vice president of marketing and sales. Bittware has worked with the Office of International Commerce to find new global markets. The company, which employs 35 people, designs and manufactures high-performance computer boards.

warwick

Joined by Jim Hinson, left, of NH Vocational Rehabilitation, Rose presented the Employment Leadership award to Karen Clough and Gisele Thibeault of Warwick Mills in New Ipswich. The Employment Leadership Award is presented each year to a New Hampshire business that recognize the skills and contributions that people with disabilities bring to the workforce and who have adopted inclusive policies and hiring practices that allow people with disabilities to fairly compete for employment.

 

donovan

Rose selected Jack Donovan of the NH Business Finance Authority for the Granite Growth Award; board member Jeff Hayes accepted for Donovan, who is retiring this month after 23 years. During his tenure, the NH BFA helped over 5,000 companies access more than $1.6 billion in credit for operations and expansions and business debt financing helped saved thousands of jobs. Rose noted the NH BFA worked with the division on notable expansions and relocations.

 

More White for Less Green: Energy Efficiency Initiative Underway at Cannon Mountain Expected to Cut Consumption 30 Percent

Wednesday, July 27th, 2016

A series of energy efficiency initiatives now underway at Cannon Mountain is expected to reduce energy consumption at the ski area by about 30 percent, while significantly increasing snowmaking capabilities.

The State of New Hampshire signed a $5.1 million contract with the energy service firm Ameresco for the project.

“This is part of the state’s effort to reduce its energy consumption 50 percent by 2030,” said Commissioner Jeffrey Rose of the Department of Resources and Economic Development, which oversees operation of Cannon Mountain. “Even as this important project is anticipated to cut energy consumption, it will provide critical upgrades to important infrastructure at the ski area.”

Cannon Mountain ~ Franconia Notch

Cannon Mountain ~ Franconia Notch

The conservation measures include replacement of Cannon’s main-trunk power line and upgrading the transformer; construction of a mid-mountain snowmaking booster pump house; installation of 388 high efficiency tower snowmaking guns, and lighting and weatherization upgrades.

The ski area’s aging primary power line will be replaced and select primary and secondary transformers will be upgraded, increasing power reliability and energy efficiency.

The pump house will move 50 percent more water to reach snowmaking trails on the upper mountain, increasing snowmaking capabilities on the upper slopes. The snowmaking tower guns replace older, less efficient equipment, providing the greatest energy savings and operational efficiency on the mountain.

The project is funded through the state’s energy performance contract. Savings from the reduction in energy will be used to pay off the bond within 16 years.

Cannon Mountain, located in Franconia Notch State Park, is owned and operated by the State of New Hampshire, Division of Parks and Recreation. The ski area has 95 trails and glades including the Mittersill slopes, plus 11 lifts. For more information call 603-823-8800, email: info@cannonmt.com; log onto www.cannonmt.com or visit its Facebook page.

 

 

Advancing The Region’s Aerospace and Defense Industries: An Invitation From New Hampshire Commissioner Jeffrey Rose

Wednesday, May 4th, 2016

Jeffrey Rose, commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development, brings extensive public and private sector experience to his role, including nine years with BAE Systems in Nashua.

Commissioner Jeffrey Rose

New England has always been an industrial leader. Its people are resourceful, innovative, and passionate about what they do. This is evident today with the great strides our region is taking to advance our aerospace and defense industries. I am proud that New Hampshire, and the Northeast, is home to thousands of businesses that produce equipment and components found in the depths of the ocean to the outer reaches of space – and every place in between. I know you share my sentiment that to keep these companies strong, vital and competitive, we must come together to build on the partnerships essential to our industries’ success.

To that end, I am pleased to invite you to attend the 2nd annual New Hampshire Aerospace and Defense Conference. Last year’s conference was a tremendous success, and based on feedback, we’re expanding elements of this year’s program to promote greater collaboration across the supply-chain, networking, and engagement from industry experts. This year’s conference promises to be even more impactful. Whether you’d like to attend as a participant, an exhibitor, or both, you’ll be able to get in front of many of the region’s key aerospace and defense influencers.

http://www.nhadec.comNHAD_Conference

Register today.

I encourage you to join us from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., June 1 at The Radisson Hotel in downtown Manchester. With the theme, Opportunities for Aerospace and Defense Products, Technologies, and Services in the International Marketplace, this year’s conference will be an excellent opportunity to learn about key international growth markets from leading experts and to connect and engage up and down the regional supply chain.

To learn more about the conference and to register, please go to the NHADEC website. I look forward to seeing you there.

 

Best Regards,

Jeffrey Rose
Commissioner, NH Department of Resources and Economic Development

* See what New Hampshire’s aerospace/defense buzz about the conference:
Five Questions with Sean Foote/NH Aerospace and Defense Conference
NHADEC board member Brian Ward/Jewell Instruments about the value of the conference podcast

 

 

Putting the Win in Winter: More Visitors, More Spending, More Places for Rest Stops

Friday, December 18th, 2015
Winter-002

Make Tracks in NH this winter!

More than 7.5 million people are expected to visit New Hampshire this winter season, a 5 percent increase from last year and they are predicted to spend over $1 billion, 7 percent more than last year.

The winter outlook and a preview of the Department of Resources and Economic Development’s winter marketing campaign were unveiled Dec. 17 at the Littleton Welcome and Information Center.

DRED, in collaboration with the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, joined with state and local officials and members of the state’s tourism industry to kick off winter operations at the state’s three seasonal centers in Colebrook, Lebanon, and Littleton, which are reopening for the season as part of a pilot project.

Winter-001

Commissioner Jeffrey Rose

“The winter season is a significant contributor to the overall health of the state’s travel sector, producing more than $1 billion in visitor spending,” said DRED Commissioner Jeff Rose. “The three seasonal welcome and information centers provide New Hampshire with significant marketing potential for visitors coming to the state.”

“DOT and DRED have worked collaboratively on the management of the state’s Welcome and Information Centers, providing important services to the motoring public,” said DOT Commissioner Victoria Sheehan. “The seasonal facilities that are reopening today, along Interstate 93, 89 and along US Route 3, are all major entry points in the northern and western parts of New Hampshire.”

During the event, the state previewed its winter marketing campaign, which encourages visitors to Make Tracks in New Hampshire this winter.

“The ‘Make Tracks’ campaign is a refreshed, integrated approach that leverages the popularity of skiing, while encouraging visitors to explore more of what makes New Hampshire the best destination in New England when the mercury drops,” said Division of Travel and Tourism Director Victoria Cimino. “It’s rooted in the ability to experience the season on your own terms, knowing that whatever path you take, it’s going to lead to fun and adventure.”

For winter vacation ideas, make tracks to visitnh.gov.

Companies Receive Annual Awards Presented by Commissioner Rose

Thursday, December 3rd, 2015

The 20th annual meeting of the Division of Economic Development (that’s us!) drew a packed house Dec. 2 for an interesting and informative outsider’s look at New Hampshire as a place to expand or relocate a business.

Commissioner Rose took time to present his annual awards, given to companies, institutions and agencies that keep our economy strong and growing.

The MVP Award

DickAnagnost

Dick Anagnost received the MVP Award from Commissioner Jeffrey Rose, who cited his work as chairman of the state’s Workforce Innovation Board, his efforts in revitalizing Manchester and bringing a Job Corps Center to New Hampshire

 

The Granite Growth Award

Rotobec2

Commissioner Rose presents the Granite Growth Award to Rotobec USA of Littleton, with Rotobect president Robert Bouchard and Mike Currier, operations manager of Rotobec USA.

Excellence in Exporting

Relyco

The Excellence in Exporting Award was presented by Commissioner Rose to Bruce Steinberg, president of Relyco in Dover. The company, an advocate for the NH exporting community, works with the Office of International Commerce and partners to expand its global markets.

The Employer Recognition Award

HavenwoodHH1

Representatives of Havenwood Heritage Heights received the Employer Recognition Award, recognizing the company for creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

The Teamwork Award

The Commissioner's Teamwork Award was presented to Manchester Community College and the four businesses below, which worked together to create a Tube Fabrication and Forming curriculum, which will help meet the workforce needs of the companies.

The Commissioner’s Teamwork Award was presented to Manchester Community College and the four businesses below, which worked together to create a Tube Fabrication and Forming curriculum, which will help meet the workforce needs of the companies.

Axenics

Axenics

GEAviation

GE Aviation

ScotiaTechnology

Scotia Technology

Titeflex

Titeflex

 

Congratulations and thanks to all who turned out for this great event.

Lorna Colquhoun
Communications Director
Division of Economic Development

5 Questions with DRED Commissioner Jeffrey Rose: Catching Up on the Past Two Years

Friday, April 3rd, 2015

Jeffrey Rose marked his second anniversary this week as commissioner of the Department of Resources and Economic Development. We ran really fast and caught up with him to talk about these past two years – the successes, the exciting projects moving forward and, of course, the Red Sox.

1. Congratulations on completing your second year as commissioner! What’s been the most surprising aspect about the job for you?

It’s hard to believe it’s been two years. It’s gone by fast, but I guess that means I’m having fun. Actually that has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the position – how interesting every day is for me. I thoroughly enjoy the diversity of the job and love the mission of the agency. I like to joke that DRED is the agency of fun, but it’s true. You take all the best things about our state and put it under one roof. How can you not have fun?

I’ve also been overwhelmed by the commitment and passion of the staff. We have a great team in place, led by four highly engaged directors. Our employees are absolutely dedicated to the state and impress me at each turn. But when you think about it, it makes sense why our team is so passionate, they are dedicated to mission of the agency. You don’t become a park manager unless you love being outside. You don’t become a forest ranger unless you appreciate our natural resources. You don’t become a business specialist if you don’t care for working with business leaders and you don’t become a welcome center attendant unless you enjoy interacting with public.

Commissioner Rose briefing the Coos County delegation last month about The Balsams.

Commissioner Rose briefing the Coos County delegation last month about The Balsams’ development plan.

2. What are two or three projects you’re most proud of seeing completed during this past year?

It’s hard to limit to just a couple, as we’ve celebrated the completion of many projects over the past year. However, a few highlights that come to mind include working with Comcast leadership in its selection of New Hampshire to become home for its new call center. The new Comcast facility in Hudson has already hired hundreds of employees and there will be more jobs created there.

Another highlight is the public – private partnership that led to the amazing new welcoming centers in Hooksett on Interstate 93. It was so rewarding to participate in the dedication ceremony on the new northbound facility last month, particularly to honor the legacy of the late Councilor Burton. He was passionate about the North Country, about the state and about our welcome centers.

I was really proud of our effort to complete the third largest conservation project in state history with the Androscoggin Headwaters. This beautiful area – more than 31,000 acres – will be protected as a working forest for generations to come.

Finally, we’ve accomplished some really exciting stuff over at Cannon Mountain. With the improved snowmaking capacity, our partnership with US Ski Association and Franconia Ski Club and the expansion at Mittersill, the energy is palpable.

3. Which industries in the state do you see as being poised for the greatest level of success or growth in 2015?

Manufacturing continues to be the backbone of the state’s economy and it’s great to see some of the growth at key companies throughout the state, but I’m particularly excited about some of things happening within the bio-medical field in New Hampshire. There are about 265 companies doing work in this industry, refining cutting edge technology with a goal of making our lives better.

Novo Nordisk in Lebanon comes to mind, and its work in treating diabetes; so does Gamma Medica in Salem. This company is making advances in the war against breast cancer with its molecular imaging technology. Biotech start-up Avitide, also in Lebanon, is refining purification technology for improving process of manufacturing protein drugs.

4. What are your biggest priorities for your third year as commissioner?

My top priority is the redevelopment of the historic Balsams Resort in Dixville Notch. This is a transformational opportunity for our North Country and stands to make New Hampshire the ski capital of the East. The $143 million project expects to create over 1,500 jobs in Coos Country and would spur nearly $1 billion of economic activity over the next decade.

This project is not just critical for the North Country – it will bring millions of dollars into the state’s coffers through increased rooms and meals tax, real estate transfer tax and a host of other revenue generators.

I’m also working diligently on my review of the Mount Sunapee Master Development Plan. I anticipate making an announcement on my draft decision of the MDP in the weeks ahead and look forward to continuing the public engagement process.

5. You’re a passionate baseball fan. How do you think the Red Sox will fare this year?

Ah yes, an important question. Much like spring itself, there is always a sense of optimism at the start of the season. I can’t wait for baseball season (and weather) to start. I am confident the Red Sox will be significantly improved over last season. There is some great young talent on the team and much improved offensively; however, I’m a little concerned over the pitching depth. I feel like we’ll be right in the mix for the post season, but either some young talent needs to emerge or a few trades need to bolster the pitching staff to be considered World Series contenders. That being said, I think we can do it. It’s going to be an exciting year.

NH Turkey Trade Mission: Extraordinary Experience

Friday, June 27th, 2014

(Commissioner Jeffrey Rose returns today from Turkey, following a week-long trade mission to that country, led by Gov. Hassan. Also accompanying the governor were representatives of seven New Hampshire businesses – Comptus of Thornton; Conductive Compounds of Hudson; Demers & Blaisdell of Concord; Hinkley Allen of Concord; Mae Consulting of Deerfield; Rokon of Rochester and Ulysses Advisory Group of East Kingston.)

Turkey-6-24-007

Gov. Hassan delivered the keynote speech to the Kaza Women and Business Association.

Our trade mission to Turkey has been an extraordinary experience. Our companies had over 100 business-to-business meetings and are returning home with dozens of high quality leads. Gov. Hassan went non-stop over the past week, meeting with many of the most senior business people in the country and receiving high praise from the more than 200 businesses she directly connected with during the mission. Some of the most gratifying moments of the trade mission came in her meetings with women business leaders and how inspired they were by her.

Financing being a key factor in international trade and economic development, we met with Garanti Bank, the leading private bank in Turkey.  The U.S., through the Overseas Private Investment Corp. (OPIC), has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in Turkey, with a particular emphasis on women-owned businesses.

Garanti Bank’s contributions have made a positive impact here and since nearly 20 percent of OPIC’s investments have been projects in Turkey (our long-standing NATO partner), this underscores its importance to the U.S.

During the trade mission, I met with numerous senior level executives representing companies eyeing expansion into the U.S. market – a receptive audience for outlining the benefits of expanding to New Hampshire and to map out potential options for their consideration.

Of note is a fast growing international company seeking a potential warehouse/distribution center here in the Northeast.  Its overseas investment director was very interested in our lower cost of doing business, compared to rest of the region.  Another company that stood out is a leading forest-products company in Turkey, interested in our timber and mill capacity.  The company is very successful in Turkey and looking to grow in markets around the globe.

Thursday was another busy day for Gov. Hassan, the seven New Hampshire businesses taking part in this trade mission, and our team from DRED. Starting with breakfast, joined by a diverse group of Parliament members, it was followed by a robust discussion about government processes in Turkey and U.S, as well as how important international trade is in providing opportunities and benefits for both countries.

The opportunity to talk about New Hampshire’s growing aerospace and defense sectors came in a meeting I, and members of the New Hampshire Aerospace and Defense Export Consortium, had with leaders of the OSTIM Defense and Aviation Custer of Turkey.  We had a spirited discussion about the important role the sector plays in both our economies and the collective efforts to organize and promote emerging clusters in both countries.  It was an opportunity to highlight two New Hampshire companies on the trade mission – Rokon of Rochester and Conductive Compounds of Hudson – and develop networking opportunities for them to engage with the Turkish industry.  We also discussed best practices and picked up some dynamic ideas to bring back to our growing NHADEC organization.

To talk more about the opportunities for New Hampshire businesses to make strategic investments into Turkey, I met with Ahmet Erdem, head of Investor Services Department with the Republic of Turkey Prime Ministry Investment Support and Promotion Agency of Turkey (ISPAT).  We discussed the emerging sectors within the rapidly growing Turkish economy and incentive programs there to help spur international investment.  The country’s investment system targets geographic locations, strategic sectors, R&D, and duty/tax reductions.  With its growing purchasing power and its location at the cross roads of Asia, Middle East, Africa and Europe, Turkey is attracting lots of foreign investment.

I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with Metin Deger, head of the Ministry of Economy for the Republic of Turkey, and speak about the benefits of Turkish companies investing in New Hampshire.  He is responsible for counseling Turkish companies on overseas investments and helps identify markets for companies.  He was impressed with what the Granite State offers foreign investors, particularly our strategic geographic location, skilled workforce and low tax structure.  It was a great discussion and once we provide some more information, he will promote New Hampshire to a variety of industries, associations and business groups.

I need to again thank our hosts – the Turkish Cultural Center and TUSKON – for their efforts in making our trade mission with Turkey so successful. Those efforts, which included months of planning and highly coordinated logistics, were extraordinary.

I am confident this is just the beginning of a long term relationship that will continue to yield fruits for both countries as we seeking opportunities to grow trade between New Hampshire and Turkey.

 

Jeffrey Rose

Commissioner

New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development

Commissioner Rose: The Value of Trade Missions to New Hampshire

Monday, June 2nd, 2014

Later this month, Gov. Hassan and I will accompany representatives of seven New Hampshire companies on a trade mission to Turkey, the first in several years. We are excited about the prospect of making connections in a country whose economy is vibrant and eager to do business with us.

International trade plays a vital role in our state’s economy and the legislature recognized this when it passed the bipartisan budget, which included funding for the state to resume trade missions. The International Trade Resource Center has organized trade missions over the past 15 years, to countries including Brazil, Chile, England, France, India, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands. The cumulative result of these trips was tens of millions in contracts to businesses and manufacturers right here at home and relationships that helped to keep our state strong in challenging times.

A key to growth and prosperity for any company is the ability to find new customers. Securing global markets diversifies their bottom line. Trade missions offer connections and opportunities for our companies, which typically don’t have the means to hire export specialists. With a trade mission, we can offer resources to open many doors in a short time, such as partnering with the U.S. Department of Commerce and local business organizations in the host country to find potential partners.

Having the governor lead the mission elevates our companies as they meet with business and government organizations. This would not happen for a business going it alone.

When New Hampshire, and the nation, suffered through the recession a few years ago, we weathered it far better than some of our neighbors. This was, in large part, because our businesses sought out overseas markets to diversify their customer base, gain more orders and, most importantly, keep their employees working. That’s why in 2010, we set a record for exporting, sending $4.4 billion worth of goods around the world.

In 2013, New Hampshire led the nation in export growth, increasing its merchandise exports by more than 22 percent, to $4.3 billion. This demonstrates that our businesses and manufacturers can design, create and make products and components that are in demand around the world.

The momentum continues into 2014. Planning began months ago for the state’s first overseas trade mission since 2011 and included months of research, discussion about the needs of our businesses and where the demand is for their products and services.

Turkey quickly emerged as an important market for several reasons: It’s our 12th largest trading partner – last year, we sent $79 million in goods and services there. Its geographical location, at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East, makes it an attractive hub and there are increasing opportunities for our businesses, especially in areas such as aerospace and defense, health and medical technologies, education and construction machinery.

With the assistance of the Turkish Cultural Center in Manchester and the partnership with TUSKON (representing seven business federations, 202 business associations and over 50,000 entrepreneurs), we have arranged five full days of introductions, meetings and networking for our businesses in Istanbul and Ankara, as well as a news conference providing even wider exposure for the state.

In March, the state was running $25 million ahead of its revenue plan for the year, a solid fiscal position. April revenues fell significantly short of the previous year, although the state continues to run $3.9 million over its projections.

As a precaution in case revenues continue to fall, Gov. Hassan issued an executive order that includes a freeze on out-of-state travel. At that time, the governor and I, our businesses and our partners had discussions about whether to cancel the trade mission.

But the state, the participating companies and our partners in Turkey had already made significant financial investments into this trade mission, months before revenues dropped and the freeze was enacted.

I cannot overstate the value of international trade to New Hampshire’s economy and how eager our businesses are to explore exporting and to send their goods to global markets. The legislature agreed.

To cancel this trade mission would result in significant losses not only to our businesses, but in potential economic growth for New Hampshire.

 

Jeffrey Rose is the commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development.

Congratulations Graduates! Parting Thoughts to the Class of 2014

Saturday, May 17th, 2014

In this season of graduation and commencement, Jeffrey Rose, commissioner of the Department of Resources and Economic Development, was the keynote speaker Friday at the hooding ceremony at the UNH Paul College of Business and Economics. His remarks follow. Best wishes to the Class of 2014.

Thank you to Dean Garron for your warm introduction.  It’s truly an honor to be here this afternoon and be a part of the UNH Paul College of Business and Economics Hooding Ceremony.

Commissioner Jeffrey Rose

Commissioner Jeffrey Rose

I am especially pleased to be a part of this event and your graduation weekend, as it’s one of those magical moments in your life; it’s an experience anyone who has donned a cap and gown will not soon forget.  It’s a moment to pay respect to your past and to anticipate and embrace your future.

For the graduates, it’s a time of reflection – thinking about the adventures and experiences that have brought you to this moment. But also about the opportunities and journeys that are about to begin.  Today is a day to be inspired – by your fellow classmates, your professors, and all those who are wishing you well in your next endeavors.

For me, being here today prompted me to revisit my graduation a few years ago – ok – close to 20 years ago – and remember the speaker at my commencement.  At the time, former NYC police chief Ray Kelly had just returned from an assignment in Haiti and his words were especially powerful, even all these years later.

His comments focused on the importance of speaking the truth, being loyal, and acting in an ethical fashion.  All very relevant and wise comments, but there was one other interesting point he made – never to follow a job just because of the money.

While that may be hard to digest with looming college loans just around the corner, thinking about it more closely – there is a deeper message in the comment – and one that has been a driving force behind every opportunity I have encountered.

Passion.

Passion is the currency that will bring riches to your life, not the numbers on a paycheck.

This has not always been a truth that I’ve known, but upon reflection, it’s been a steady driver in the successes of each phase of my life.  I’ve worked to harness my passions through every activity – playing sports, enjoying the outdoors, connecting with friends and family, and certainly in the career choices I’ve made.

And when you follow your passions, a willingness to lead, to discover and to be happy is much closer to your grasp.  It allows the all the pieces to fold together and make the whole all the greater.

Following my passions have served me well – to be a positive contributor to causes, beliefs, and values that I hold true and dear.  They are filters and guideposts in times of challenging decisions and incredible opportunities.

This has kept me here in New Hampshire – a place I knew early on I did not want to leave – and led me to a career opportunity that fuels one of my greatest passions – public service.

Serving the state I love as the commissioner of the Department of Resources and Economic Development is extraordinarily rewarding.

Every day is a new challenge, challenges that are offset each morning knowing that I have the opportunity to make a difference, by preserving, protecting and promoting the elements here that we all love and which collectively help produce the amazing quality of life for which New Hampshire is known.

Whether it’s our remarkable landscape and natural resources, our parks and historic sites, promoting our attractions and destinations or nurturing our distinctively friendly business environment, I have the opportunity to make a contribution – a positive impact in every corner of the state – each and every day.

This was never a career I thought possible, and in all honesty, I had not even thought much about … especially when I was wearing a cap and gown 20-years ago.

At that time, I would have scoffed at the suggestion that following my passions would land where I am now … in a career I love for its rewards and challenges.

Following my passions uncovered personal riches and happiness, which are priceless.

As you move forward with the next chapter in your lives and assess your career options, I encourage you to find your passions.  To play to your strengths, beliefs and ideals that are true to you.

You are New Hampshire’s freshly-minted business leaders and I suspect you are all eager to make a difference.   With an open mind and heart, your passion can be your inner compass that steers you forward in a direction that will bring great rewards.

With our boundless technology giving businesses new ways to be competitive, the opportunities to make a difference are waiting for you to grab.

Working with businesses every day, I see owners and managers looking for leaders to add to their teams. They seek leaders with a passion, drive and a sense of purpose in what they are doing.

I can tell you this … businesses are starving for the next generation of thinkers, doers, creators and dreamers.

And to think of the path that remains before you is incredibly exciting.  To think about the advances you will see in technology, in social responsibility, in global connectivity, and personal opportunity are only limited by your imagination.

I hope you will pursue your passions and be among those that bring vision and drive to our economy in New Hampshire.

As you know, it’s such a distinctive state, characterized by its hardworking, honest, and community oriented people.  We are a state that relies heavily on having a healthy business environment and consistently ranks at the top of the lists of best states to live, work, and raise a family – and maintaining this enviable climate is going to need drive, determination … and yes … passion.

To sustain our advantages, we need to constantly infuse our workforce with skill and enthusiasm. We need people from various perspectives and diverse backgrounds to help bring out the best thinking and creativity.  We need people like you, who have received a first rate education from our state’s university, to step forward, with your passions, to lead our state – our economy – beginning today.

Along with your education, there is something else I encourage you to carry with you as far and as long as you can …  and that is the connections you have made through the years.

While it’s never been easier to keep in touch with friends, family and colleagues through technology, it’s the personal relationships that you forged here, that have the potential to make a difference in your lives.

Look around, there is a lot of talent around you, don’t be afraid to tap into that talent as you build your network.  Collectively you share a common connection, a link to your past, but perhaps even more important, a seed to your future.

In seeking out your passion, know that you will find it enhanced by the people sitting beside you and the people seated beside them. This is the start of a network that will be both a guide and an inspiration. Learning from others, seeking role models, and identifying attributes from colleagues that inspire you – is a powerful tool.

Throughout my career, I’ve been blessed to work with so many talented people.  I have tried to take life and career lessons away from each of my experiences, and most of these people probably have no idea how much they’ve affected me.

I have learned to focus on what’s important and not get too caught up in the hustle of what others deem to be urgent.

I’ve learned to focus on the things you can control and that you do well, and not dwell on things you don’t have the ability to impact.

And I’ve learned that each moment shall pass – and upon reflection it’s never as good as it seems and never as bad as it might seem.

Being steady, focused, thoughtful and grounded, will allow you to see through the clutter and noise and make more rational and consistent decisions.  It has allowed me to be true to my passions and to make meaningful contributions.

I hope you will take your passions – all of them and in whatever state of development they are in – and allow them to be a guide. I hope you will follow them and that they will follow you.

In the months and years to come, when the demands of work, family and life compete for them, resist the urge to cast those passions aside … for you will find that they have brought you to where you are and, more importantly, to the places for which you are destined.

It is these passions what will bring you riches and rewards and allow you to be true to who you are.

Congratulations to the Paul College class of 2014 and I wish you all the very best in pursuing your passions.  Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day.

New Director Carmen Lorentz Sworn-in as Chief of Economic Development

Friday, January 24th, 2014

Carmen Lorentz sworn in as director of the Division of Economic Development

The Division of Economic Development gets down to business Monday morning with a new director at the helm, following the swearing-in of Carmen Lorentz on Thursday afternoon. Her husband, Jonathan, and son, Julius, stood by her and, in fact, 5-year-old Julius also raised his hand to take the oath.

Lorentz, who grew up in the Lakes Region, most recently the executive director of the Belknap Economic Development Council, brings her experience to the state level, overseeing a staff of 20 that works with thousands of businesses each year in the areas of business retention, recruitment, international trade, government procurement and broadband development.

Nominated by Department of Resources and Economic Development Commissioner Jeffrey Rose, Lorentz was unanimously confirmed earlier this month by the Governor and Executive Council.

“I’m excited to join the outstanding team at the Division,” she said, “and I look forward to working with everyone to address the needs of New Hampshire’s business community.”

These are exciting times for New Hampshire, especially as we learn this morning that Politico Magazine ranks us as the strongest state in the Union. There are great opportunities for our businesses, companies and manufacturers to thrive and prosper in 2014.

So we are excited, too, Carmen, and we’ll see you Monday.

 

Lorna Colquhoun

Communications Director

Division of Economic Development