John has over fifteen years of experience in community development and economic growth in Maine. He most recently managed the Community Programs Division of the Lewiston area office of the USDA Rural Development where he was responsible for the development and implementation of marketing and outreach efforts as well as the preparation and underwriting of loan applications. Prior to that, John worked for the Eastern Maine Development Corporation, first as an Economic Development Specialist and then as the Director of Business Services and Business Development. His accomplishments include:

Securing several grants and other funding for a variety of economic and community development projects, including financing for a multi-year redevelopment plan for two former military facilities in Downeast Maine and organizing the transfer and redevelopment of one property to develop the Gulf of Maine Aquaculture Business Park.

Implementation of a business investment program that included outreach into Eastern Canada seeking business partnerships with firms in Eastern Maine.

Developed and secured contracts to provide services to firms and municipalities, including tax increment financing, and business market studies.

Directed, facilitated, and secured the expansion and location of a Canadian market research firm to a new location in Calais, as well as the investment and expansion of other firms.

Facilitated and organized the formation of the Piscataquis County Economic Development Council- a countywide organization focused on business expansion, retention, and investment.

Facilitated and organized the formation of The Maine Highlands Corporation - a regional tourism organization supported by area chambers of commerce.

John's prior experience also includes serving as Director of the Ohio Business Expansion and Retention Program as well as work as resource analyst and GIS programmer.