Deb Lutz has served as a Chamber board member since January of 2013. She worked in economic development for 13 years. She recently changed positions, and she now works for the Steel Valley Authority in the Strategic Early Warning Network or SEWN program. SEWN assists manufacturing entities by offering layoff aversion or business retention services that are geared to stabilize, restructure, turn around, or attract buyers for at-risk small and medium-sized companies.
As someone who truly enjoys working in our region, Deb appreciates the people, the culture, and the perseverance of the residents in the area. “The combination really does make the Venango Region a special place to live and work,” she said.
In her spare time, Deb loves to experience all the recreational opportunities that this region has to offer. “There is truly something to do in any of the four seasons,” she said.
Deb’s goals as a member of our board include continuing to work with the other board members to promote the vision and mission of the Chamber, continuing to be responsive and proactive to the needs of our businesses, and having the Chamber continue to be the conduit on a variety of levels to the residents and communities that we serve.
“Every citizen, business, organization, and political entity plays a role in the world of Chambers of Commerce,” said Deb. “Every connection with an existing investor or visitor creates an impression about Venango County. That impression can be positive or negative, but all impressions ultimately build Venango County’s brand in the larger world.”
“The Chamber is a network of individuals, organizations, programs, and services dedicated to working with new and existing businesses that work cooperatively to drive vitality and prosperity,” said Deb. “I see a great deal to be optimistic about for the future of the Venango Region.”
Deb feels that maintaining a positive outlook and working together as a community towards a common goal is the key to ensuring a bright future for the Venango Region.
“There are exciting things that are happening in and around Venango County that will take a few years to develop, but, when they do I believe there will be opportunities that we, as a region, have not seen for a while,” she said. “But we need to stay connected and work collaboratively to take full advantage.”