John Sechrest, New Executive Director
Bellingham, WA – November 8, 2010 – The Innovation Resource Center (IRC) is
pleased to announce its selection of John Sechrest as its Executive Director.
John is well known for his focus and passion in support of entrepreneurs and startup
businesses. His primary focus as the Economic Development Director for Corvallis –
Benton County, Oregon has been on building the culture of innovation by developing
both entrepreneurs and investors.
“We were excited to engage an individual with a breadth of experience in support of
entrepreneurs, which included starting his own business and working within a university
affiliation,” said Debbie Ahl, Chairman of the IRC. “John’s experience in founding the
Willamette Angel Group and Business Bootcamp as well as his board involvement with
Startup Weekends and the BEC Accelerator provides him a rich set of tools to help us
grow the new business sector of our economy.”
Individuals who work with John are impressed with his ability to collaborate with other
organizations to create success. His ability to look at new, creative ways to achieve
results has drawn a range of participants into the startup world.
“I am pleased to understand the many elements available in Whatcom County to
contribute to its economic growth,” stated John Sechrest. “I welcome the opportunity to
work with the public and private organizations, area businesses and education institutions
in support of building a more robust economy with innovative startup businesses.”
John will be in Whatcom County beginning November 15 and located at the Innovation
Resource Center offices at Barkley Village, 2200 Rimland Dr. He can be reached at
Sechrest@nwirc.com
