June 2026 Chair's Column

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

Summer offers each of us an opportunity to slow the pace, spend time with family and friends, and appreciate the communities we work so hard to strengthen throughout the year. Whether traveling across our state, exploring a new destination, or simply enjoying our own hometowns, I've found that stepping away from the office often provides a renewed perspective. Every vibrant Main Street, successful industrial park, bustling port, scenic park, or locally owned restaurant reflects years of vision, collaboration, and investment. It serves as a reminder that economic development is about far more than recruiting new industry—it is about creating places where people want to live, work, raise families, and build their futures. That mission is what makes Georgia such an extraordinary place to call home and one of the nation's leading destinations for business and opportunity.

One of the greatest privileges of working in economic development is seeing firsthand the innovation and dedication that exists in every corner of our state. Even while on vacation, it's hard not to notice ideas worth bringing home or communities that inspire us to think differently about our own. Those experiences reinforce the value of lifelong learning, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to serving our citizens. As summer continues, I hope you find time to recharge and enjoy everything our great state has to offer. Thank you for the leadership you provide every day and for the role you play in ensuring that Georgia's economic future remains as bright as its summer skies. I look forward to continuing our work together to create new opportunities and lasting prosperity for communities across Georgia.

Stacy Watson
Director, Economic & Industrial Development
Georgia Ports Authority