October 16, 2001

JOHN D. WIK
Director, DE Economic Development Office

When John Wik became the second member of The Committee of 100 Board to be tapped by Governor Ruth Ann Minner to serve in her administration, our loss became the State's gain. Because economic development is central to The Committee of 100's mission of working to keep Delaware economy healthy, having someone of John's calibre as Director of the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) is reason to celebrate.

John brings to this office not only his innate intelligence and known integrity, but also, the experience of 28 years working in the private sector, most recently as head of his own company. Until he became the Director of DEDO on January 23, 2001, John served as President of WIK Associates, a full-service environmental consulting, construction, and remediation firm that he founded in 1984.

Because of his background, John brings a unique perspective to DEDO. He understands not only the needs of businesses, but also, the environmental issues that so often entangle economic development. He comes to issues such as brownfields with knowledge and experience far beyond those who come with an environmental, governmental, or business perspective alone.

DEDO's Mission Statement - "To enhance the quality of life for all Delawareans by facilitating the retention and creation of quality jobs" - has a new meaning as we face more uncertain economic times. John has set out for himself and DEDO specific goals that include supporting and strengthening Delaware's traditional industries while enhancing the diversification of Delaware's economic base with an emphasis on information technology, biotechnology, and agricultural products and services.

John will share with us not only his vision for DEDO under his watch, but also, what DEDO's mission and goals will mean for Delaware's economy.

Beverley Baxter