EDASC hires Deputy Director

Ken Huste is the new deputy director for the Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County. 

Huste is an accomplished economic developer and business development manager who most recently worked for Innovation Norway for 12 years as a Senior Advisor, Maritime. His work with the organization included crafting a Memorandum of Understanding between Innovation Norway and Washington state, fostering international government and business collaboration. He has experience in the offshore, maritime, energy and hospitality sectors, focusing on Norwegian companies doing business in the United States and the inverse.

"I’ve worked with Ken for most of my tenure here at EDASC,” CEO John Sternlicht said, “and have been so impressed with not only his knowledge, professionalism and character, but also with his familiarity with our region. He’s already been advocating for Skagit County for years, not only in Norway but also in Seattle.”

As deputy director, Huste will be responsible for a range of activities in addition to business recruitment, retention and expansion, including strategic planning, program implementation, project management, and cultivating relationships with key stakeholders.  

“I’m really looking forward to having Ken on board and familiarizing him with the amazing people, businesses and institutions across Skagit County," Sternlicht said.

"I am honored to partner with the exceptional EDASC team in strengthening and uniting our community,” Huste said. 

“My wife’s cherished memories of her childhood in Anacortes, coupled with my own immediate connection to Skagit County, make this opportunity deeply personal and profoundly meaningful.”      

Huste’s first day with EDASC is Aug. 25. He is accompanied by his wife Tenley and their 11-year-old son, Viggo. Their eldest proudly serves with the U.S. Navy, while their daughter just started her career in Dallas.