New director takes helm at the Detroit Region Aerotropolis

Christopher Girdwood

Christopher Girdwood has been named as the new executive director of the Detroit Region Aerotropolis.
Detroit Aerotropolis is a four-community, two-county public-private economic development partnership focused on driving corporate expansion and new investments around two Wayne County Airport Authority airports, Detroit Metropolitan and Willow Run. The aerotropolis region is located in the City of Romulus and the townships of Van Buren and Huron along with the City of Taylor.
“Christopher brings a wealth of national experience and tremendous enthusiasm to the role,” said David Glaab, chair of the Detroit Region Aerotropolis Board of Directors. “Under his leadership, I believe Aerotropolis will continue to attract quality jobs and business investment to the region.”

Girdwood formerly served as the business development manager for Prince William County in Virginia, where he implemented strategies to grow a 1,500-acre Innovation Park by attracting and expanding life science and advanced manufacturing industries. His economic development experience also includes work in Los Angeles and at the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Girdwood attended Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, and Harvard Kennedy School.
“I am from greater Detroit and it's great to be back home promoting economic growth in the region,” said Girdwood. “The talent is here, there are many shovel-ready sites, and developers can work directly with two world class airports, three major interstates, and five Class-A rail lines.”
During the past five years, the Aerotropolis region welcomed $470 million in new capital investments and created nearly 3,000 new jobs. Many opportunities still exist with thousands of acres of undeveloped property throughout the region, officials said.
Assistant Wayne County Executive Khalil Rahal applauded the move.
“Aerotropolis is central to our effort to continue to grow Wayne County as a world-class logistics and distribution hub to match our airport. I look forward to seeing Aerotropolis continue to thrive under Chris's leadership,” Rahal said.
“Working with the Aerotropolis communities, we will build on the momentum of the Amazon, Penske, and Brose projects to attract even more quality jobs and investment to this area over the next decade,” said Girdwood.