Staff

Brittany Brady
President
A native of Henderson County, Brittany is passionate about her community. Brittany started with the Partnership in 2010 focused on marketing and business recruitment to ensure a sustained industrial base in Henderson County. When she is not marketing Henderson County, she is enjoying the many natural assets the region has to offer, traveling to new spaces, enjoying a show and spending time with family and friends.

Emily Martin
Senior Director of Business & Economic Development
Emily is a native of Greenville, South Carolina, but has proudly called Western North Carolina home for almost ten years. Prior to joining The Partnership, Emily worked in economic development association work at the state level and for the Brevard Chamber of Commerce. She holds a master’s in public administration from Clemson University and is a Certified Workforce Developer. Outside of work, Emily enjoys spending time outdoors in Western North Carolina with her husband, daughter, and friends.

Sara Schmidt
Director of Industry Relations
Sara is a long-time Western NC resident who enjoys being outdoors with close friends, her husband, and her sons.

Jake Ross
Economic & Workforce Development Coordinator
Jake is a native of Henderson County, a Hendersonville High School alum, and a recent graduate of Wofford College, where he studied Business Economics. Jake has deep local roots and is excited for the opportunity to give back to the community he loves. At the Partnership, he will be largely focused on workforce development projects that target the next generation of manufacturers. Beyond the workplace, Jake enjoys playing sports, reading books, and spending time with friends and loved ones.