Killen brings deep, wide-ranging experience in community and economic development to the role. Throughout her career, she has served as a Chamber of Commerce Director, Main Street Director, and Director of Community Development, and has worked as a grant writer and consultant on revitalization and economic development projects for communities across the country through her private consulting practice. Having built and run several businesses of her own, she has firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities local entrepreneurs face.

 

Amanda has extensive experience leveraging public-private partnerships along with state and federal economic development programs, and is skilled at identifying grant opportunities, incentives, and funding mechanisms to support both existing businesses and new investment. She believes in building collaborative, layered partnerships between local government, nonprofits, private organizations, and the community itself, driving sustainable growth while keeping citizens and stakeholders informed and engaged throughout the process.

 

"We’re excited to have Amanda step into this role. Her strong background and sincere commitment to community make her an excellent fit to help guide Frederick County’s economic development efforts,” said John Jewell, Chairman, Frederick County Board of Supervisors.

 “Amanda’s experience in both community and economic development, her demonstrated ability to build strong relationships, and her depth of understanding of business needs will be a major asset to Frederick County ,” said Bryan Fairbanks, Chair, Frederick County EDA Board of Directors.

 A lifelong advocate for community, Amanda is committed to fostering economic development that supports and values every business in Frederick County while preserving the integrity and character that make the county a great place to live, work, and grow.

 

“Amanda’s collaborative approach is exactly what we want for Frederick County,” said Jason Aikens, EDA Liaison, Frederick County Board of Supervisors. “She recognizes the importance of strengthening the businesses we have while opening the door to new opportunities.”

 

“I’ll be leveraging every available resource: funding, technical assistance, and strategic partnerships, to support the businesses already here in Frederick County and to attract new investment to the region,” said Amanda Killen, Director, Frederick County EDA. “But growth only means something if it’s done right, and I’m committed to doing it in a way that protects what makes this community special, while preserving the integrity and character that make Frederick County home. I want every business here, large or small, to feel supported and valued, and I can’t wait to meet and visit each and every one of them.”

 

“Amanda understands that economic development is about people and partnerships,” said Mike Bollhoefer, Frederick County Administrator. “Her broad experience will help her work effectively with County departments, the EDA Board, businesses, and community partners.”

 

Amanda will begin her role on September 1, 2026.