New position, familiar face

The Carbon County Economic Development Corporation is pleased to announce they have hired long-time Rawlins resident, Yvonne Johnson, to take the helm for the organization.

Johnson has a long history of service for Carbon County. From 2004 to 2012 she served as the executive director of the Saratoga Historical & Cultural Association and was credited to successful fundraising efforts and outreach that set up the organization for success.

Johnson also served as the executive director of the Rawlins-Carbon County Chamber of Commerce in 2012. Johnson was tasked with outreach to county businesses and strengthening partnerships. Memberships in the chamber skyrocketed under her leadership.

“We are thrilled to have Yvonne back in Carbon County. She has a great track record in economic development efforts and continuously demonstrates strong leadership and a customer-service style of building relationships,” said CCEDC Board Member and President-Elect, Robert Stipe. “The hiring committee had several well-qualified candidates, and ultimately felt that we needed someone who loves Carbon County as much as we do. We believe Yvonne will do her best for economic development.”

Johnson was born in San Diego and moved to Rawlins in 1972. She raised her family as a single mother in Saratoga. During that time, she worked in the food and beverage industry and focused in special events. She was given the 2011 Women of Distinction Award by Valley Service Organization and the Saratoga Museum was presented the 2008 Organization of the Year by the Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce.

For the past several years, Johnson has been living in Orlando, Florida where her eldest son, Brandon, resides. She worked in the wardrobe department at Universal Studios and has been recognized several times for being a strong team leader. In 2015 and 2016 she was Team Member of the Month; in 2016, Leader of the Quarter and, in 2015, Johnson was awarded the top tier Trainer of the Year. The park- wide Bravo Award was presented to Johnson in 2016. This is one of the highest honors within the Universal Studios organization.

“I am really looking forward to being back in Carbon County, where my heart has always been. I plan to help Carbon County to put their best foot forward, and strengthen its economy for the future,” said Johnson.

Chris Iacovetto, current President of CCEDC said, “We look forward to working with Yvonne, and to helping her get re-acquainted with the businesses and communities in the county. The CCEDC offers a great service to all residents of our county and is dedicated to our mission of enhanced economic development strategies.”