In this episode of Clarksville Conversations, Josh Ward, Executive Director of the Clarksville–Montgomery County Industrial Development Board, breaks down the unprecedented economic expansion reshaping the region. Ward details Clarksville’s strategic shift toward high-tech manufacturing, spotlighting major investments such as Korea Zinc and LG Chem—projects expected to generate thousands of jobs by 2030 and significantly raise local household incomes.

The conversation also explores how growth extends beyond industry, including the large-scale retail transformation at Freedom Farms and the arrival of competing healthcare providers aimed at improving access and quality of care. Ward explains why confidentiality is critical during complex business negotiations and how discretion helps ensure major deals successfully cross the finish line.

Looking ahead to 2026, Clarksville’s focus begins to pivot from aggressive industrial recruitment toward quality-of-life investments—convention space, greenway expansion, and urban amenities designed to support a growing population. The episode underscores a community-wide effort to manage rapid growth responsibly while building long-term prosperity for residents.