“Massachusetts’ innovation economy generates good jobs and has put us on the cutting edge of technological development,” Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash said. “Katie’s extensive experience in entrepreneurship and development … will be invaluable assets as we work to lower barriers on innovation and entrepreneurship and provide resources for growing companies across the Commonwealth.”
Stebbins joins the office following 20 years of experience in workforce and economic development, the office reported. Stebbins served the city of Springfield, Mass., as senior planner and then principal planner and deputy director of economic development. More recently, she ran a consulting practice and served as the primary consultant for Holyoke Innovation District on behalf of the Massachusetts Tech Collaborative, and then launched a parenting and lifestyle e-zine in 2012.
"I am consistently impressed with the world-class research and development coming out of our universities and startups, and I am looking forward to further fostering an environment that drives job and wage growth in Massachusetts," Stebbins said in a statement.
