City EDD Director Named Economic Developer of the Year
Economic Development staff also recognized at NM IDEA annual awards
ALBUQUERQUE — Two members of the City of Albuquerque’s Economic Development Department were recognized with statewide honors by New Mexico IDEA, a nonprofit organization that celebrates excellence in economic development across New Mexico. The awards were presented Wednesday, January 21. Economic Development Director Max Gruner received Economic Developer of the Year, and Sr. Economic Developer Frankie Hermosillo was honored with the Staff Achievement Award.
“These recognitions from New Mexico IDEA reflect the strength of Albuquerque’s economic development team,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Max and Frankie are helping position our city for long-term growth while ensuring opportunity reaches businesses and communities citywide.”
Gruner was recognized as Economic Developer of the Year for his leadership in securing Pacific Fusion’s $1 billion research and manufacturing campus in Albuquerque, one of the most significant economic development wins in New Mexico in recent years. The project is expected to create more than 200 high-wage jobs, generate hundreds of construction jobs, and establish Albuquerque as a national leader in advanced energy innovation.
“This award reflects the incredible teamwork across the City and our partners,” said Economic Development Director Max Gruner. “Economic development at this scale only happens when people are aligned around a shared vision for Albuquerque’s future.”
Hermosillo received the Staff Achievement Award for going above and beyond her regular duties to strengthen Albuquerque’s small business ecosystem, including helping launch the City’s Business Resource Center and expanding access to technical assistance for entrepreneurs.
“Supporting small businesses means meeting people where they are and making City resources easier to access,” said Sr. Economic Developer Frankie Hermosillo. “I’m honored to be recognized and proud to work alongside colleagues who are deeply committed to building opportunity in every part of our city.”
Together, these awards underscore Albuquerque’s commitment to innovative, inclusive economic development and the dedicated public servants working to move the city forward.