Brad Smidt

Brad Smidt is the Senior Vice President of Business Development for GPEC. He manages the team that works with companies considering large industrial, office and data center projects in Greater Phoenix, and oversees the organization’s EDDT Council. Over his 28 years in economic development, 21 of which have been with GPEC, Brad has helped more than 250 companies expand or relocate to the region.

Prior to GPEC, Brad worked in economic development in both the cities of Mesa and Chandler. Brad is a native Arizonan who grew up in Greater Phoenix. His local ties have contributed to his vast knowledge of the area and familiarity with the unique assets of its workforce. In 2008, Brad was named the Economic Developer of the Year by the Arizona Association of Economic Development.

Brad is an active member of the Fiesta Bowl Committee, and serves on the University of Arizona Eller MBA Industry Advisory Board. Brad earned a Bachelor’s degree in Regional Development from the University of Arizona. He holds a Certified Economic Developer Certification from the International Economic Development Council.