Heather McWhorter

Heather McWhorter is an experienced leader in entrepreneurship and economic development, currently serving as the Director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of North Carolina Wilmington since August 2017. McWhorter also oversees the UNCW Small Business and Technology Development Center and actively participates as a Board Member of NC IDEA and Vice Chair of the Town of Leland's Economic Development Committee. With a robust academic background, including an M.S. in Energy and Mineral Engineering and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Penn State University, McWhorter has held various leadership roles in promoting technological entrepreneurship and economic growth, including as an adjunct professor at Penn State. Prior experience includes directing the Pennsylvania Technical Assistance Program and launching the Pennsylvania SBDC Clean Technology Resource Center, showcasing a strong commitment to innovation and community development.