In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, President and CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC, about how Colorado Springs is uniting its region to compete globally, building on its deep aerospace, defense, and cybersecurity assets, and expanding advanced manufacturing powered by a steady military-to-civilian talent pipeline.

She explains the origin of the Colorado Aerospace and Defense Economic Council, the importance of advocacy for small and mid-sized contractors, how site selection really plays out in a mountain market, and why economic development still matters most at the level of individual opportunity.

From cluster strategy to workforce realities to the joy of cutting a ribbon on a transformational project, Johnna offers insight from a 30-year career building thriving communities.

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Special Guest: Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer.

Sponsored By:

• Sitehunt: Sitehunt is an AI-enhanced platform that helps economic developers build a comprehensive property database, enabling informed decisions and efficient RFI responses to accelerate site selection and project success.

Links:

• Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer | LinkedIn
• Business in Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC
• One CEO’s Plan To Help Revive Southern Colorado’s Business Development - YouTube
• Long-Term Vision with Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer - A Podcast for Chamber Professionals
• Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer Of Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC On The Exciting Developments In US High Tech Manufacturing | by David Leichner | Authority Magazine | Medium
• Colorado Springs leaders in D.C. to lobby for local interests and look for opportunities
• Interview: Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer on Local Business and Economic Growth - Springsmag Colorado Springs
• Clean & Safe Pilot Program - Downtown Partnership
• So. Colorado Business Digest & CSBJ || AUGUST || 2025 by Colorado Media Group :: NORTH, The Digest/CSBJ & So. Colorado Insider! - Issuu