Portage native Karaline Cartagena Edwards returned from Texas to become the economic development manager for the Economic Development Corp. Michigan City.
She said she came back after contacting Clarence Hulse, executive director of the Michigan City Economic Development Corp., about the job.
“I had been following the developments, positivity and momentum that have been transpiring in the Region and particularly in Michigan City,” she said in a press release. “After connecting with Clarence on LinkedIn and seeing the job opportunity, I knew it was time to be part of something impactful by returning to my hometown area.”
Edwards said the Region’s natural resources, outdoor activities, blend of businesses and access to big-city amenities all lured her back to Northwest Indiana.
“I’d love to be a part of helping bring in the best new businesses for our area,” she said. “But even more, I want to be a part of something that shines a positive light on Northwest Indiana and to have a role in enhancing our Region. We’re not just steel mills and sand. We’re artists, foodies, nature enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. We’re the perfect mix of white and blue collar. We’re hard workers. We’re steel, sand, soul and spirit.”
Edwards will coordinate projects, network, community outreach, lead the Vibrant Michigan City initiative, among other duties.
“In my position, I work heavily with business attraction, retention and expansion,” Edwards said in a press release. “I hope to develop positive working relationships with the businesses we currently have here in Michigan City and make sure that they are thriving, while also working to promote our area to new businesses looking to join in on what NWI has to offer.”
Edwards graduated from Indiana University Bloomington with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish linguistics and education. She worked in education for seven years in Houston, Texas.
