Heather Cantu
About Heather Cantu
Heather Cantu is a Facilities Project Coordinator at American Electric Power, with a background in Interior Design and extensive experience in facilities management and economic development.
Work at American Electric Power
Heather Cantu has been employed at American Electric Power as a Facilities Project Coordinator since 2018. In this role, she manages various facility-related projects within the organization. Her responsibilities include overseeing project timelines, coordinating with contractors, and ensuring that projects align with company standards. Cantu's position is based in the Abilene, Texas area, where she contributes to the operational efficiency of the facilities.
Education and Expertise
Heather Cantu studied at Texas Tech University, where she earned a Bachelor of Interior Design from 2002 to 2005. This educational background has equipped her with the skills necessary for her roles in facilities planning and project coordination. Her expertise encompasses interior design principles, project management, and facility operations.
Professional Background
Cantu has a diverse professional background in facilities management and design. She worked as a Designer/Healthcare Design Specialist at Business Interiors from 2006 to 2009. Following this, she served as a Facilities Planner at Metrocare Services from 2009 to 2012, and as an Assistant Facility Manager at JLL from 2012 to 2014. These roles have contributed to her extensive experience in managing facility operations and design projects.
Achievements in Economic Development
Heather Cantu has secured over $1 million in grants and fundraising efforts aimed at recruiting businesses. She served as a project director for a local economic development organization in West Virginia, where she oversaw business retention and expansion as well as the recruitment of new industries. Cantu is also a board member of the Polymer Alliance Zone and the West Virginia Economic Development Council.
Membership and Leadership Roles
Cantu is an active member of the Southern Economic Development Council (SEDC) and an alumnus of Leadership West Virginia. She has held significant leadership roles, including serving as a manager for business retention and expansion in the West Virginia Department of Commerce for a 12-county region. Her involvement in these organizations reflects her commitment to economic development and community growth.