Drew Repp | International Trade & Economic Development Manager
Drew Repp, a Spokane native who graduated from Pepperdine University with Journalism and Economics degrees, was recently promoted to International Trade & Economic Development Manager, after working with GSI Economic Development program managers in a research and support capacity and acting as interim IT&ED manager immediately prior to his official appointment. Drew now provides assistance to businesses and educates them on trade, connects them with new markets, and provides advocacy and services. Drew previously worked in the Colorado Governor’s Office of Economic Development & International Trade, and in the Colorado Small Business Development Center Network. Drew’s spare time is spent with his wife and two young sons.
Ryan Arnold | Entrepreneurship Program Director
Ryan Arnold recently joined GSI as Entrepreneurship Program Director, where he’s responsible for the leadership and guidance of the local and regional entrepreneur ecosystem, as well as oversight of our Startup Spokane program. An experienced entrepreneur, Ryan formed Sightline Energy, a consultant firm to the architecture and engineering industries, and was also a founding partner in the Innovation Collective, an entrepreneur-support organization. Ryan loves sharing the Inland Northwest with his wife their two furry, four-legged children.
Maria Vandervert | Vice President, Marketing & Communications
Maria Vandervert was recently promoted to Vice President of Marketing & Communications. She’s responsible for strategic oversight and planning of the organization’s MarCom efforts. Maria is a Spokane native and graduate of Eastern Washington University. Before assuming her role at GSI, Maria was the Marketing Director of the Spokane Area Economic Development Council, and prior to that worked for the Eastern Washington State Historical Society/Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture. A mother of two, she is an annual volunteer for the Children’s Justice Conference and a Compassionate Cooks volunteer.
Tammy Pruitt | Graphics & Publication Manager
Tammy Pruitt was recently promoted to Graphics & Publications Manager. Her responsibilities include the design and coordination of GSI’s visual presence and brand maintenance. Tammy is a Spokane native who holds a degree in Art from Gonzaga University. She has been a graphic designer for nearly 20 years with various organizations throughout the city, and spends her free time creating original art work.
Tricia Webster | Marketing & Communications Manager
Tricia Webster was recently hired as Marketing & Communications Manager. Tricia handles the organization’s media presence and supports GSI’s internal and external communications efforts. She has a Journalism degree from Eastern Washington University, was part of The Spokesman-Review’s Marketing Department for several years, and, most recently, was employed as Communications Manager at SNAP. She’s a proud Navy Mom, community volunteer and beard enthusiast.
Carsen Quinnett | Events Manager
Carsen Quinnett recently joined GSI as Events Manager. She’s responsible for the planning and execution of more than 100 member-driven events each year. Carsen has a Recreation Management degree from Eastern Washington University and spent four years at Northern Quest Resort & Casino before joining GSI. When she’s not hanging at the lake, Carsen enjoys time with her family.
Jessica Rule | Events Coordinator
Jessica Rule was recently hired as Events Coordinator. Jessica’s duties include the coordination and logistical support of 100+ annual events. Jessica has a speech communications degree from Whitworth University and most recently worked as an events coordinator at Beacon Hill Catering & Events. A newlywed, Jessica loves the lake, family time and coordinating weddings on the side.
Isaac Lanctot | Membership Account Manager
Isaac Lanctot has joined GSI as a Membership Account Manager, where he’ll be working on new member retention and cultivation of new business relationships. Isaac brings with him an extensive background in B2B and retail sales, including eight years in the wireless industry, and, most recently, time as a Regional Account Manager for Comcast. Isaac is an avid tennis player, a Whitworth University graduate and, along with his wife, loves spending time with their two young boys.
