JOHN TALMAGE

DIRECTOR, LEE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OFFICE, FORT MYERS

The Lee County Economic Development Office provides assistance to retain existing businesses, encourages entrepreneurship and attracts new business to provide a strong economy and thriving communities. Its team of business professionals with various backgrounds actively engage with local businesses to attract investments and enhance Lee County’s economic landscape. Talmage has been director since 2019. He sits on the board of directors for the Habitat For Humanity of Lee and Hendry counties.

EDUCATION: Columbia University (BA), Tulane University (MA)

FIRST JOB: Bagging and stocking groceries at Publix.

IMPACT ON A MENTEE: My most rewarding work as a mentor was engaging with young adults who have dropped out of high school. I worked with them to finish their diplomas and encouraged them to pursue post-secondary degrees.

SOMETHING SURPRISING: I like to make my own cheeses and pastas.