“I’ve always been drawn to being involved in what’s going on in the community”: Conor Eckert’s Journey from Local Roots to Leading Change 

Hello, lovely Humans of the World viewers! It’s Marco and Erica here, back with another captivating story. Today, we’re diving into a whirlwind conversation with the incredibly charming Conor Eckert, who is not only the Senior Development Officer and Vice President of Business Attraction at the Orange County Partnership but also an all-around fantastic storyteller.

From the very first handshake, we knew this encounter was going to be special. Conor’s energy? Absolutely infectious. And can we take a moment to appreciate his impeccable style? That reddish beard paired with a sharp blazer—finally, someone who appreciates the art of colour coordination as much as we do!

As we settled into the conversation, Conor shared his role in attracting international businesses to Orange County, New York. From advanced manufacturing to tourism and logistics, he’s spearheading efforts to create jobs and drive community growth. His work isn’t just about numbers and buildings; it’s about nurturing an ecosystem where industries and communities thrive together.

Conor’s journey is rooted in homegrown pride. A Montgomery native, he’s chosen to stay and make a difference in the place he loves. His passion for economic development isn’t just professional; it’s deeply personal. When given the choice to chase big city dreams or stay and invest in his roots, Conor didn’t hesitate.

“I’ve always been drawn to being involved in what’s going on in the community,” he told us. That sentiment has shaped a career where he’s worn many hats, from consulting to being the youngest CEO of a municipal industrial development agency for his hometown.

What stood out to us was Conor’s balanced vision for the future. Yes, he’s all about attracting cutting-edge industries and advanced technology jobs, but he’s equally passionate about the arts and culture that make Orange County vibrant. “We can’t attract dynamic companies without quality of life,” he explained.

It’s this holistic approach—where art galleries, walkable neighborhoods, and cafes coexist with bustling factories and R&D facilities—that makes Conor’s mission so unique. Every project he takes on, whether it’s bringing a pharmaceutical manufacturer to town or developing a mixed-use space, aims to uplift the community in every possible way.

Conor also opened up about the ripple effect of his work. When one company sets up shop, it plants seeds of growth that touch every corner of the community. Jobs lead to homes, homes lead to vibrant downtowns, and vibrant downtowns lead to a flourishing local culture.

And yes, the discipline and public service ethos run in the family. With a father who served as a New York City police officer and a mother who kept the household running, Conor learned early on the value of service and focus.

As he eloquently put it, economic development is where community service meets business acumen. It’s about creating opportunities that not only drive revenue but also build a thriving ecosystem where people can live, work, and enjoy life to the fullest.

In every word, you could hear Conor’s commitment to making Orange County a place where dreams can flourish—whether it’s in the arts, technology, or simply the joys of small-town life.

Thank you, Conor, for sharing your story with us. And to all our viewers, remember: no matter where you’re from or what you do, there’s always an opportunity to plant seeds of growth in your community.

Until next time, stay curious, stay connected, and as always, keep exploring the incredible stories of Humans of the World.

Until next time.

with Love
Marco and Erica