Economic Development Alliance welcomes new staff

Press release from the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance:

Economic Development Alliance Welcomes New Staff

(December 28, 2009) – The Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance (Alliance) announced today the addition of two new staff members. Ms. Ashley Steenman and Mr. Karl Bandemer have joined the Alliance as senior development officers.

“We are very pleased to welcome Ashley Steenman and Karl Bandemer as senior development officers for the Alliance,” stated Andi Udris, Alliance president. “Both Ashley and Karl bring with them a wide array of experience that will be beneficial to the goals and objectives of the Alliance.”

Steenman’s recent professional background includes four and a half years with the Allen County Department of Planning Services working in the Economic Development Division. She graduated from Purdue University and obtained a Graduate Certificate in Public Management from Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) and is also a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.

“While working with the County I developed relationships with many local businesses,” said Steenman. “Being a part of the Alliance will allow me to continue to build relationships that will translate into additional industrial growth in our community.”

Bandemer has held vice president positions with Sturges Development Group and Northill Corporation prior to joining the Alliance. Among his notable projects is directing the development of Sycamore Hills, a residential-golf course community surrounding a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, along with the development of over 20 subdivisions in northeast Indiana. He has experience with the City of Fort Wayne as Director of both the Redevelopment Commission and the Economic Development Department. Bandemer will work closely with downtown development and financial services for the Alliance.

“I am looking forward to working with the Alliance, specifically with regards to downtown development,” said Bandemer. “Building a strong downtown is a key aspect of economic development and will be a contributing factor to the success of our community as a whole.”

About the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance
The Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance is an organization that furthers the base employment of Allen County. It is supported by Allen County, the City of Fort Wayne, the Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce and the Fort Wayne-Allen County Airport Authority. The Alliance is also an advocate for the entire community that is comprised of foundations, organizations, companies and individuals. For more information on the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance, visit www.theallianceonline.com.