Longtime Blount County Economic Development board member Fred Lawson was installed as chair emeritus for his more than five decades of service to the board, and for his leadership, fiscal responsibility and strong economic development commitment.
Lawson has been instrumental in recruiting and aiding high profile companies such as Amazon, DENSO, Arconic, Cirrus Aircraft, Rubbermaid and ProNova. More than 100 company relocations and expansions have occurred during his time on the board, as well as the creation of more than 20,000 direct jobs in Blount County.
Lawson has worked with the board and helped to create new economic development initiatives for the community which has benefited from his involvement in producing a good quality of life for our citizens and the region.