Our team is mission focused

dedicated to creating a resilient and diverse

economy throughout the Archipelago

KEDC Executive Team

Karl Hertz, President of KEDC
  • President

  • Vice President

  • Secretary

Leadership invested

in our island home

Kodiak Economic Development Corporation is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2021 and directed by a group of community leaders who recognize the need to broaden and strengthen Kodiak’s economy.

KEDC first began work aligning with the island’s pandemic recovery plan to come together as a community to work collaboratively to rebuild, restart, and re-energize the future of Kodiak.

KEDC's mission is to improve the quality of life on Kodiak by developing partnerships to diversify the economy, supporting industry, and educating our youth and workforce to succeed in the global economy.

Our Board of Directors reflect an array of experience, resources, and valuable insight to help KEDC fulfill the mission of developing a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable Kodiak economy. 

Board Members

  • Cooper Curtis

    Board Member

  • Jess Johnson

    Board Member

  • Cyndy Mika

    Board Member

  • Thomas Panamaroff

    Board Member

  • Greg Zadina

    Board Member

  • Jascha Zbitnoff

    Board Member

KEDC STAFF


  • EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    John brings many years of military, business and local government experience to the KEDC Team. He served over 20 years as a Coast Guard pilot and aircraft maintenance manager. He has owned, operated and managed several businesses, with most of his time managing seafood processing plants on Kodiak’s waterfront. His experience in local government helps with insights into how local governments operate and the roles they play in economic development.

    To connect: john@kodiakedc.com


  • ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

    Melissa comes to KEDC with more than 20 years experience in communication, marketing research, customer acquisition and retention, and business development. She has lived on a variety of islands throughout the US and understands the impact distance has on business and community.

    To connect: melissa@kodiakedc.com

Interested in supporting Kodiak as a Board of Directors member?