MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today appointed Willie Smith to the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Board of Directors. This appointment fills a vacancy created by the resignation of Joe Kirgues from the board.
“Willie’s combined years of professional experience and demonstrated commitment to and success in promoting community economic development efforts will make him an asset to the WEDC Board of Directors,” said Gov. Evers. “Willie’s input and insight will help drive the mission of this board in its work to support WEDC’s efforts to bolster Wisconsin businesses, invest in local ingenuity and entrepreneurship, and continue the state’s positive economic outlook and prosperity for years to come.”
Smith has more than 25 years of experience in the real estate and economic development industry. Smith serves on the Milwaukee City Plan Commission, a position he was appointed to by former Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett in 2021. He is also the executive director of the Northwest Side Community Development Corporation (NWSCDC), where he has worked since 2013, first joining as director of housing. Before joining NWSCDC, Smith held various real estate finance positions.
“I am deeply honored and grateful for the governor's appointment to the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation,” said Smith. “The WEDC plays a vital role in supporting innovation, business development, and job creation in our state. I am excited to collaborate with the WEDC administration, board members, and the companies and communities it serves. Together, we will build a strong Wisconsin business climate that benefits everyone.”
Smith earned his Associates degree in Commercial Real Estate from Marquette University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Cardinal Stritch University. He is a Wisconsin licensed real estate broker and a National Development Council certified economic development finance professional. He currently serves on the board of directors of the 30th Street Industrial Corridor Corporation. Smith has been awarded The Diversity in Business Award by The Milwaukee Business Journal and was named a Notable Minority Executive by BizTimes Milwaukee.
WEDC’s board of directors is composed of state legislators, departmental secretaries, and individuals from the private sector with relevant business-related experience. The board of directors provides WEDC with strategic leadership and operational oversight, representing statewide public and private economic development interests.
A photo of Smith is available here.
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