Carlsbad Celebrates Business Milestones and Leadership Changes

The Carlsbad Department of Development (CDOD) recently held its Annual Banquet, celebrating significant milestones in local business and industry. The event, themed 'We Treasure Our Members,' highlighted 25 years of shipments to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) and 100 years of oil and gas in Eddy County.

In addition to recognizing these milestones, CDOD announced its new Executive Board Officers for the upcoming year. Beverly Allen will serve as President, Susan Crockett as Vice President, Ashley Switzer as Secretary/Treasurer, Ericka Laney as Past President, and Valerie Murrill as Member-at-Large. Each officer will serve a one-year term in accordance with CDOD's bylaws. City of Carlsbad Councilor Eddie Rodriguez and Eddy County Commissioner Ernie Carlson will also serve as designated City and County representatives on the Executive Board.

The banquet honored several businesses for their contributions to the community. Planet Fitness received the Corporate Impact award, HTeaO was recognized for Community Diversification, and NM3TS was honored for Neighborhood Development. Hyatt House earned the Corporate Investment award, while Milton's Brewery was acknowledged for Quality of Life. ATC Shooting Sports LLC received the Community Entrepreneur award, and Pearl of the Pecos was celebrated for Community Impact.

A special award was given to the New Mexico Oil and Gas Association (NMOGA) for its 100-year contribution to Eddy County's economy, a sector that significantly supports New Mexico's budget. "We are excited to see so many things happening in Carlsbad and Eddy County," said CDOD President Beverly Allen, emphasizing the positive growth and success across various industries.

WIPP was recognized for its 25 years of operations, having safely transported transuranic (TRU) waste over 16.5 million loaded miles and disposed of more than 285,000 waste containers since its opening in 1999. Sandia National Laboratories received the Legacy of Dedication award for its long-term collaboration with the WIPP project. Paul Shoemaker, a former President of the CDOD Board and retired Sandian, presented the award, highlighting Sandia's enduring support for WIPP.

Additionally, Pearl of the Pecos was honored for becoming a State Authorized Arts and Cultural District by the New Mexico Economic Development Department (NMEDD). Kat Davis, the current Executive Director, and her predecessor, Karla Niemeier, accepted the award from acting NMEDD Cabinet Secretary Mark Roper. "This official status represents their dedication to supporting creative and cultural entrepreneurs and growing the local economy," said Secretary Roper.

New CDOD Executive Director Kristen Gamboa expressed her enthusiasm, saying, "With over 240 attendees, I am deeply inspired by Carlsbad's commitment to entrepreneurship, local businesses, and major economic industries. Carlsbad is a formidable force, and alongside my team and this amazing Board of Directors, the CDOD will drive growth and development to new heights, ensuring a prosperous future for our community."

The Carlsbad Department of Development (CDOD) serves as the economic development agency for the City of Carlsbad and Eddy County, New Mexico, providing assistance to businesses considering expansion and new investment, as well as support for existing industries.