Maria Masse | Executive director, North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce
1. What are the biggest opportunities and challenges facing the North Kingstown economy? How might those differ from issues in other state areas? Each area has its own strengths and challenges. Wickford, as a historic village, strives to retain its unique character while being … [welcoming] to small business. There are long-term businesses … with many art galleries [and] small shops … and restaurants … that are staples and drive visitors year-round. Wickford Junction is home to the commuter train station and houses large businesses. … Post Road also has larger stores … with services like banking and many mom-and-pop shops. Quonset is a major job hub for the state with mega-large businesses.
2. How does the varied business landscape in North Kingstown affect your approach at the Chamber? Post Road beautification is a big part of the long-term plan of the town. The Chamber is located on Post Road and was thrilled to receive a partial town grant to beautify our space. The strength in the composition of varied businesses, both in size and scope, ensures that there is … a strong workforce, needed services for residents [and] a vibrant visitor base.
3. What are your thoughts on how to address those challenge or opportunity areas in North Kingstown? I see my role … [as building] bridges with various constituencies. Communication amongst stakeholders is key to addressing any differences that may exist. Making myself available and open to listening to various viewpoints and making sure that each voice has a seat at the table to ensure that rich decisions are made.
4. In recent years the state has made a push to increase its role in offshore wind and the blue/ocean economy. How does this sector fit into your vision for the Chamber? The role of the Chamber has been, historically, to distribute state and federal grant funds for workforce development, specifically in the growing sector of the blue economy. This move was made after hosting stakeholder meetings. In that environment, the need for a technologically literate workforce was determined to be essential in developing this essential workforce.
5. How has your experience with the Wickford Art Association carried over to your role as Chamber director? Both organizations are member-based and rely on public and private funds to sustain their operations. My role in both entities has been to advocate for … [the] members.
