NEDC Board Member Spotlight Q & A with Mark Smith

What is your hometown? Storm Lake, Iowa Mark Smith

Occupation and company you work for?  VP of Manufacturing at ALMACO, Co-Owner of The Arena 

Do you have a fun fact about your business or something you’re doing at your business that you’re excited about? ALMACO is the oldest business in Story County.

What is your role with the NEDC, and how long have you been involved? I’m currently serving as Past President. I have been involved with NEDC for about five years.

What is the most interesting or incredible thing you have learned about local economic development by being involved in the NEDC? The growth potential of Nevada and Story County is exciting.   

Why do you continue to be involved in local economic development? Why is this an important issue for you? I am interested in seeing my community prosper and would like to contribute to the future success of Nevada.  

What other involvements do you have in the local community/county? The Arena is very active in fundraising for numerous causes. I also get involved with coaching various youth sports.   

What are your favorite pastimes/hobbies? Working on my farm  

Who are the members of your family? Wife, Jennifer; three sons, Cedar, 13, Sterling, 11, and Kye, 11. 

What is something fun about you that only your high school or college friends would probably know? I can ride a unicycle … at least I could then.    

If you had only one hour a week to watch TV, what would you watch?  Yellowstone  

What has 2020 taught you? I do not enjoy pandemics.