Northern Michigan University 2008 alumnus Christopher Germain is the new CEO of the Lake Superior Community Partnership, an economic development organization based in Marquette. He will begin his new role in June. Germain graduated with a bachelor's degree in public administration and a minor in speech communication.
“I couldn't be more thrilled to be joining the LSCP team and moving back to the Upper Peninsula,” said Germain in an LSCP press release. “Returning north has been a long-time personal goal. The work the LSCP team is doing around economic and community development – which are truly one and the same – will maintain its status as a best-in-class economic development organization and keep the region's positive momentum going forward.
“It is no secret the region faces challenges including low housing inventory, limited childcare options, and a historically tight labor market, The LSCP has stepped up to the plate to facilitate solutions in collaboration with businesses, communities and partner organizations in a way that will pay dividends for years to come. I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and working with LSCP staff, the board and its partners on these initiatives.”
In his current role as senior redevelopment ready communities (RRC) planner with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Germain works with communities to align their vision and plans with streamlined development processes and practices to enhance vibrancy and the potential to attract more investment. He works with 29 communities across the Upper Peninsula, including Marquette, Negaunee, Ishpeming, Michigamme Township, L'Anse, Norway and Iron Mountain.
During his time with the RRC program, Germain has helped grow the program's reach from 47 to more than 300 communities statewide, expand its technical assistance offerings, enhance its training tools, and implement significant process efficiencies.
Prior to his work with MEDC, Christopher served as a waste and recyling planner with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, worked as a legislative aide at the Ohio State House, and ran a statehouse campaign in rural Ohio.
“We are so excited to welcome Christopher to the LSCP team,” said Board Chair Roxanne Daust in the press release. “His qualifications are a perfect fit for the vision and direction that the LSCP has developed over the last year, and will help us continue to enhance our collaborative initiatives and partnerships with businesses and communities. His economic and community development expertise, and his close relationships with our region's communities, will be tremendous assets for our organization and our economy.”
Germain was born and raised in Michigan, and currently resides with his partner in Grand Rapids. He plans to relocate and begin work with the LSCP in early June.
In addition to his NMU degree, Germain holds a master's in city and regional planning from Ohio State University. He holds an accreditation from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and is an accredited Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP).
Germain succeeds Sarah Lucas, who was recently appointed to the State of Michigan's newly established Office of Rural Development.