Gov. Kristi Noem has appointed the next leader of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.
Chris Schilken is the office’s new commissioner. He previously served as deputy commissioner.
“Freedom-loving folks from all over the country are moving to South Dakota. It’s the job of my Office of Economic Development to keep our communities growing so that we are ready to welcome new South Dakotans, while continuing to care for our existing businesses,” Noem said. “Chris understands this and will work to develop initiatives to create a South Dakota that we will be proud to pass on to the next generation. I am excited to work with him in this new role.”
Schilken has overseen more than 100 complex projects during his career, according to a press release from Noem's office.
“I want to thank Gov. Noem for the opportunity to serve as Commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development,” Schielken said. “The work that I have gotten to do with GOED over the last five years has been life-changing for myself and for people across the state. I am looking forward to leading this group and working closely with Gov. Noem to continue building a stronger South Dakota.”
He replaces Steve Westra, who stepped down last month.
