ROME — Jennifer Waters, the current vice president of business development and communications for Mohawk Valley EDGE, will join Empire State Development in the Strategic Business Division as a senior director of industry development.

“Jen joined EDGE as a Utica University intern nearly 15 years ago and over the years has grown into a valued member of the EDGE team and has played an important role in assisting the region’s economic transformation,” said Steven DiMeo, president of Mohawk Valley EDGE in a statement.

“Jen was a visible presence in the region, and we wish her the very best in her career growth with Empire State Development, where she will be part of the Strategic Business team focusing on the semiconductor, advanced electronics and UAS industry sector,” DiMeo said. “Jen will be working with EDGE on our continued business development and attraction strategies in this sector. Jen will be working collaboratively with EDGE in pursuit of this industry sector and look forward to partnering with her in her new capacity with ESD.”

Reflecting on her years with EDGE and lessons learned, Waters said, “...economic development is a team sport. We have succeeded in turning the tide of the Mohawk Valley economy by working together. In good times and bad; this community comes together to support each other and to offer assistance when or where ever needed.”

Mohawk Valley EDGE is a private, not-for-profit entity that supports efforts for economic growth in the region through strategic investments and community partnerships.

Empire State Development is a state entity that works on initiatives including business investment and job creation and supports local economies across the state through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other assistance.