Tom Franzen

Experienced Government & Economic Development Executive

Springfield, Ohio, United States

About

Strategic leader with over 20 years of experience in public administration accomplishing positive outcomes in economic and aerospace development. Strong background in aviation management with proven success in developing research and development capability for the advancement of autonomous aircraft and advanced air mobility concepts. Solid business acumen with a significant track record of successful projects; experienced in building relations with government, military, and private entities.

Experience

  • Assistant City Manager & Director of Economic Development at City of Springfield, Ohio - Government
    Apr 1999 - Present · 27 yrs 4 mos

    Serve as Assistant City Manager in coordinating and implementing various programs and activities of the city. Directly responsible for economic development, airport operations and personnel. Lead and coordinate economic development efforts on behalf of the city, including incentive & financing programs, marketing and promotions, industrial park development and land sales, and maintaining economic development partnerships with key stakeholders.

  • Board Member at Small Business Development Center - Springfield & Clark County
    2000 - Present · 26 yrs 7 mos

    The Small Business Development Center helps local business owners build vibrant, thriving enterprises by offering expert consultation, assistance in the acquisition of capital and financing, classes and office space.

  • Member Board of Directors at Ohio Aviation Association
    Apr 2019 - May 2025 · 6 yrs 2 mos

    Founded in 1965 (originally as the Ohio Airport Manager's Association), the Ohio Aviation Association (OAA) is a non-profit corporation (501c 6) committed to airport development and safety in Ohio. OAA’s mission has been to promote aviation by providing a medium for the exchange of ideas, methods, information, and experiences; to foster public recognition and understanding of aviation in Ohio; to promote and encourage better relations between airports, users, and communities served; and to cooperate with all organizations working for the general advancement and benefit of aviation.

  • Preload Supervisor at UPS
    Oct 1992 - Dec 1995 · 3 yrs 3 mos

    Pre-load supervisor overseeing the loading of 37 package delivery vehicles and supervising 14 employees.

  • Airborne Communications Systems Operator at United States Air Force
    1988 - 1992 · 4 yrs

    Airborne Communications Operator on AWACS. Served in Gulf War Operations: Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Provide Comfort.