Jesse Smith
About Jesse Smith
Jesse Smith is the Manager of Industrial Partnerships and Economic Development at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he has worked since 2013. He has extensive experience in economic development, having previously held positions at Mississippi Power Company and Mississippi Polymer Institute, and holds degrees in Polymer Science and Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Current Role at Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Jesse Smith serves as the Manager of Industrial Partnerships and Economic Development at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. In this role, he has focused on building high-tech economic development and commercialization strategies. He collaborates with business executives, economic development professionals, and entrepreneurs to enhance economic development processes. His work involves leveraging national technology resources to assist industries in gaining a competitive edge in the global market.
Previous Experience at Mississippi Power Company
Prior to his current position, Jesse Smith worked at Mississippi Power Company as an Economic Development professional from 2007 to 2009. During his two-year tenure, he contributed to initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and development within the region, focusing on strategic partnerships and resource allocation.
Experience at Mississippi Polymer Institute
Jesse Smith held the position of Manager of Marketing and Economic Development at Mississippi Polymer Institute from 1994 to 2003. Over the course of nine years, he was responsible for marketing initiatives and economic development strategies that supported the growth of the polymer industry in Mississippi.
Educational Background
Jesse Smith earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Polymer Science from the University of Southern Mississippi, completing his studies from 1990 to 1994. He later pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the same institution, graduating between 1998 and 2001. Additionally, he studied at New South Economic Development for 11 months in 2006, further enhancing his expertise in economic development.
Career Path and Business Development Experience
Before joining Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Jesse Smith worked in business development at Dickten Masch Plastics from 2003 to 2006. His experience in various roles has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of economic development and marketing strategies, which he applies in his current position to foster industrial partnerships.