Nationally Recognized Honor Highlights Stipkovich’s Leadership in Economic Growth and Transformational Investment in the Columbus Region
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Columbus, Ohio – Tom Stipkovich, Director of Project Management at One Columbus, has been named a recipient of the 2025 Economic Development 40 Under 40 Award, a biennial honor recognizing rising stars under 40 in the economic development industry across the United States.
The awards program, hosted by Development Counsellors International (DCI) and Jorgenson Pace, Inc., recognizes professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment, and innovation in their field. An independent selection committee of economic development leaders and site selection consultants evaluated nominations based on their impact in the workplace and the broader economic landscape.
“Economic development is a purpose-driven field that shapes communities worldwide, and young professionals are at the heart of that impact,” said Julie Curtin, president of DCI’s economic development practice. “These 40 rising stars are driving change through their innovation, commitment, and leadership. Their contributions are already making a difference, and I’m excited to see how they continue to shape the industry in the years to come.”
At One Columbus, Stipkovich has been a driving force behind some of the most transformative economic development projects in the region. In less than eight years, he has risen from Project Management Coordinator to Director of Project Management, leading efforts that have resulted in over 10,000 new jobs, nearly $1 billion in new payroll, and investments totaling $13.6 billion.
One of his most significant achievements is leading the project management efforts for Anduril’s Arsenal-1, the largest economic development project in Ohio’s history. This $900 million investment will establish a 5-million-square-foot advanced manufacturing facility, producing high-tech drones and munitions for the U.S. Armed Forces. The project is expected to generate over 4,000 direct jobs and $2 billion in annual economic output, solidifying Central Ohio’s role in defense manufacturing and national security.
“Tom’s leadership and dedication to economic development have played a pivotal role in shaping the Columbus Region’s growth,” said Kenny McDonald, President and CEO of One Columbus. “His ability to manage complex projects, build strong relationships, and drive meaningful investment has helped secure transformative opportunities for our communities. This recognition is well deserved, and we are proud to have him on the One Columbus team.”
Beyond major corporate investments, Stipkovich has played a critical role in attracting over $700 million in foreign direct investment (FDI) across advanced manufacturing, life sciences, renewable energy, and chemical manufacturing sectors. His ability to foster public-private partnerships has significantly diversified the Columbus Region’s economy, making it a model for sustainable, inclusive growth.
“As the economic development industry continues to evolve, these emerging leaders are rising to meet new challenges with expertise and innovation,” said Todd Jorgenson, managing director and principal of Jorgenson Pace, Inc. “Congratulations to this year’s 40 honorees—your leadership is making a lasting impact on both your communities and the industry at large.
Stipkovich is joined on this year’s 40 Under 40 list by two other honorees with ties to the Columbus Region—Liberty Boyd of AEP Ohio and Archit Dhir of Invest Québec. Boyd, who plays a key role in economic development at AEP Ohio, has been instrumental in driving energy solutions that support business growth across the state. Dhir, a former One Columbus team member, now leads investment attraction efforts for Invest Québec, strengthening economic ties between North America and international markets. Their recognition underscores the strength of talent found in Central Ohio’s economic development ecosystem.
Award winners were recently announced at a reception hosted by DCI and Jorgenson Pace at the Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C. The ceremony was held in conjunction with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) 2025 Leadership Summit, the only conference held exclusively for Certified Economic Developers and senior managers in the profession.
For more information on the 40 Under 40 awards program and this year’s winners, visit https://aboutdci.com/insights/40-under-40/.
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About One Columbus
As the economic development organization for the 11-county Columbus Region, One Columbus’ mission is to lead a comprehensive regional growth strategy that develops and attracts the world’s most competitive companies, grows a highly adaptive workforce, prepares our communities for the future and inspires corporate, academic and public innovation throughout the Columbus Region. One Columbus expertly guides companies through the location decision process. Through strategic business outreach and customized research, the One Columbus team leverages public, private and institutional partnerships to grow the Columbus Region’s economy and strengthen its national and international competitiveness. Funding is received from more than 300 private organizations, local governments, academic institutions and JobsOhio. Learn more at ColumbusRegion.com.