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Crisp joins N.C. Department of Commerce as economic developer
By Lynn Hotaling
 A former local economic development specialist is poised to share her talents with the entire region.
Tamera Crisp, who spent 13 years in Jackson County’s planning and economic development office, is now the N.C. Department of Commerce’s economic developer for the seven westernmost counties. Crisp works with the DOC’s Business and Industry Division and operates from its Bryson City office.
Crisp said last week she’s enjoying her new job.
“After six weeks it’s going well,” she said. “I’m working with companies in Western North Carolina to help them grow, retain and create jobs and wealth.”
Crisp described her tenure with Jackson County and with the local Economic Development Commission as “most valuable,” and said she draws upon it in her new position.
“I made contacts throughout the state and region, and I’ve already worked with the regional economic developers I work with now,” she said.
Crisp’s first duty in her new job was six weeks of training across the state; her next will be to make on-site visits to regional manufacturers.
“I want to let companies know what the Department of Commerce can offer, and I also broker other state programs that relate to industry,” she said, adding that she’ll work closely with other agencies like AdvantageWest, the Small Business Technology Development Council and Region A.
Among the benefits she can tell business leaders about are state tax credits for qualifying companies, based on the number and quality of jobs that are created.
“I’m also a resource for local governments,” she said.
AdvantageWest CEO Dale Carroll said Crisp’s appointment is good news for the region.
“Citizens of Southwestern North Carolina will have a strong advocate on their side when it comes to Tamera – she has been an active member of the AdvantageWest Economic Development Advisory Council for several years,” Carroll said.
Prior to working for Jackson County government, Crisp directed the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce for 18 years.
She moved to Jackson County as a child and attended Southwestern Community College and Western Carolina University.
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