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Andrew Ebert
Executive Director
aebert@pedco-ne.org
Meet Drew, a seasoned and visionary executive leader with over a decade of experience navigating the exciting intersection of technology, strategy, marketing, and operations. Drew has a knack for orchestrating large-scale programs, crafting enterprise architecture, and propelling accelerated growth at both state and regional levels.As a trusted strategic partner and thought leader to C-Suite teams, Drew is well-versed in championing innovation, forging lasting partnerships, and introducing best practices that drive high-performance within organizations. Drawing from a diverse background that spans entrepreneurial ventures, business ownership, and corporate and non-profit experiences, Drew brings a unique blend of expertise to the table.
Drew is not just a leader on paper; he's a hands-on executive skilled in building, managing, and empowering cross-functional teams across the USA and globally, including Venezuela, India, Spain, Kenya, and China. A highly creative problem solver, Drew thrives in resolving issues under pressure and in fast-paced environments. Beyond the boardroom, Drew's fascination with advanced tech extends to building a personal biotech business in his spare time.
Education-wise, Drew holds a Master’s from UMKC's School of Science – Innovation and Management, complemented by a bachelor's degree from UMKC in film and advertising.
When he's not busy driving business success, Drew enjoys sci-fi, climbing mountains, quality time with friends and family, and engaging in creative pursuits.
Here are some PEDCO career highlights that showcase Drew's exceptional track record:
•Led the in-house APEX Accelerator at PEDCO as an innovative and disruptive leader, fostering collaboration between private businesses, the Defense Industrial Base, and Government Industrial Base.
•Orchestrated consortiums with multinational corporations and smaller organizations, positioning them as contenders with National Science Foundation (NSF) Builder Platform and the Economic Development Administration's (EDA) Tech Hubs.
•Led procurement outreach with SBA's District Offices and other federal, state, local, and tribal government small business development programs.
•Utilized an extensive background in film/advertising marketing; skilled in executing multi-channel branding and marketing campaigns to increase PEDCO’s partnership network.Drew's journey is not just about business – it's a dynamic blend of leadership, innovation, and a passion for making a difference.
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Larry Loucks
Workforce Development Coordinator
lloucks@pedco-ne.orgLarry has spent over 30 years assisting individuals in finding and maintaining employment. He worked for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services as both a Case Manager and Supervisor with the Employment First Program, assisting TANF recipients to secure employment or gain the necessary tools to enter the workforce with the goal of becoming self-sufficient. He has also worked with ResCare as a Case Manager Supervisor, contracting to Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to provide case management services for the Employment First Program. He later worked for Nebraska State Probation as a High Risk Probation Officer and as a Juvenile Probation Officer. He has also spent time as a Program Facilitator for the Center for People in Need, working with inmates to reenter the workforce.
Larry received his Bachelors Degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in Political Science, with minors in History and Sociology. He has completed the Hastings Leadership Program in 2013, and was instrumental in developing the first Nebraska "One Stop Shop", in collaboration with the Nebraska Department of Labor in Grand Island, NE in 2001.
Larry's hobbies include motorcycles, family, travel and Nebraska Football.