Michael Catsi

Mr. Catsi is an accomplished economic development professional with over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and at local, regional, and state government levels. He began his career as Executive Director of the Skagway Development Corporation in Alaska, then advanced to lead the Southwest Alaska Municipal Conference and serve as Director of Business Development and Communications for the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority.

In 2019, after 29 years in Alaska, Mr. Catsi relocated to Tacoma, Washington, where he became the Economic Development Manager for the city’s utilities (power, water, and short-line rail services). He currently serves as the President and CEO of the Economic Development Board for Tacoma and Pierce County (EDB), a nonprofit focused on helping local businesses thrive and attracting new companies to the region.

Throughout his career, Michael has held various leadership roles, including President of the Alaska Partnership for Economic Development and of the Alaska Manufacturing Extension Partnership, was twice elected to the Skagway City Council and served on the Board of Directors for the Alaska Municipal League. Mr. Catsi currently serves on the Boards of the International Economic Development Council, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, Aerospace Futures Alliance, Central Puget Sound Economic Development District, and Alaska Creative Economies.

Originally from Sydney, Australia, Mr. Catsi is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), a Development Finance Certified Professional (DFCP) and holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography from the University of New South Wales.