James Wright joins Kilgore Economic Development board

Kilgore Economic Development Corporation appointed James Wright to its board effective Oct. 1, bringing more than 30 years of industry and economic development experience. The move comes as KEDC advances its 2026-2029 strategic plan and 2027 program of work.

Why it matters: - James Wright adds private-sector, public service and economic development experience to the Kilgore Economic Development Corporation board. - KEDC is pushing ahead with a 2026-2029 Strategic Plan and Fiscal Year 2027 Program of Work. - The board appointment supports KEDC’s efforts to retain local industry, attract investment and create jobs in Kilgore, Texas.

What happened: - Kilgore Economic Development Corporation appointed James Wright to its Board of Directors effective Oct. 1, 2026. - Wright succeeds Tommy Vaughan of Revolution. - The announcement came Nov. 6, 2026. - Wright previously served on KEDC’s economic development team and worked with the organization as a local business partner.

The details: - Wright currently serves as regional laboratory director for SPL’s environmental operations in Texas. - Wright oversees facilities in Kilgore, Round Rock, Conroe and Plano. - Wright spent 23 years at Halliburton in leadership roles tied to operations, real estate, environmental health and safety, and risk management. - Wright also served in the U.S. Marine Corps and in law enforcement. - Wright joined KEDC in 2023 as director of real estate and development. - In that role, Wright worked with local employers to identify growth opportunities, address expansion challenges and connect businesses with resources. - KEDC Board President Alan Pollard said Wright’s experience as both an industry partner and a staff member will help as the organization implements its new strategic plan. - Pollard is vice president of Communications & Power Industries LLC. - KEDC said Wright’s background positions him to help strengthen the business environment and support both existing industries and new investment.

Between the lines: - Wright brings a rare inside-out view of KEDC, having worked with the organization first as a business partner and later as staff. - His comments underscore KEDC’s value proposition: a collaborative local process that helps companies expand. - Wright pointed to Kilgore’s location along Interstate 20 and access to major Texas and Louisiana markets as competitive advantages. - The appointment also signals KEDC’s focus on board leadership with direct operating experience rather than only civic or advisory backgrounds.

What's next: - Wright will help guide KEDC as it executes its strategic plan and program of work. - KEDC will continue focusing on business attraction, retention and expansion. - The organization is expected to keep working with local industry and prospective employers to drive capital investment and long-term growth.

The bottom line: - KEDC is adding a board member who knows Kilgore’s business community from both sides of the table, and that could sharpen the group’s push for growth. More information