Appointment strengthens regional coordination while the Greater Arvada Chamber advances a structured transition built on 14 years of growth
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. – The Board of Directors of the Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation (Jeffco EDC) today announced the selection of Kami Welch as its next President & CEO. Welch, who has served as Interim CEO of Jeffco EDC while leading the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce, will assume the permanent role on August 15, 2026. The Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors simultaneously announced a leadership transition plan designed to ensure continuity for members, partners, and the community.
Welch has led the Greater Arvada Chamber for 14 years, a tenure marked by doubled membership, the launch of B.O.L.D. 2026, a $3 million regional initiative addressing talent, housing, childcare, and business competitiveness, and the creation of the Arvada Resiliency Taskforce, a standing cross-sector partnership that has mobilized more than $5 million in direct business support. She brings 17 years of leadership in chamber and economic vitality at the local, state, and national levels.
Jeffco EDC brings together three verticals: economic development, the West Metro Chamber of Commerce, and the West Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation. Since 2020, its economic development work has supported more than $5 billion in new capital investment and more than 10,000 jobs across Jefferson County and its six cities. The opportunity ahead is to more fully integrate the three verticals so that each strengthens the others, positioning the organization for its next stage of growth and community impact.
“Kami has spent 14 years building the Greater Arvada Chamber into one of the region’s most trusted and effective business organizations. As Interim CEO, she quickly earned the confidence of the Board, staff, and investors,” said Kelly Dunkin, Chair of the Jeffco EDC Board of Directors and President & CEO of Colorado Gives Foundation. “Kami understands the opportunity in front of Jeffco EDC and the work it will take to realize it. She can set a clear direction, bring people together around a common vision, and build the partnerships needed to move the organization forward. We are grateful to the Greater Arvada Chamber for being such a strong partner throughout this transition.”
The announcement reflects a shared belief by both boards that Jefferson County is strongest when regional coordination is paired with strong local implementation. The Greater Arvada Chamber has built a proven track record as a convener, catalyst, and champion for the Arvada business community, and that role will continue through the transition and beyond.
“For 14 years, Kami has grown this Chamber in every dimension that matters: membership, programs, partnerships, and impact,” said Lindsay Reinert, Board Chair of the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce, representing Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital. “The organization she is handing forward is strong, well-led, and clear about its purpose. Our board has a thoughtful transition plan in place, and Arvada businesses can expect the same convening, advocacy, and support they count on today. We are proud that her next chapter keeps her leadership working for Jefferson County.”
Under the transition plan, Welch will continue in a defined continuity role with the Arvada Chamber through the end of 2026, supporting the completion of B.O.L.D. 2026, the launch of a new strategic initiative, and 2027 planning, and remaining available as needed to support a smooth handoff while the Chamber board conducts a search for its next leader. Details on the search will be shared in the coming weeks.
“The Greater Arvada Chamber and this community shaped who I am as a leader, and I am deeply grateful to our board, staff, members, and partners,” said Welch. “What excites me about Jeffco EDC is the chance to pair regional coordination with local implementation. When economic development, chamber work, and leadership development pull in the same direction, communities feel the difference. I look forward to serving Jefferson County in this new capacity and to cheering on the Chamber’s next chapter.”
Both organizations are committed to clear, consistent communication throughout the transition. Members, investors, and partners can expect regular updates from the Jeffco EDC and the Greater Arvada Chamber as next steps take shape, including the Greater Arvada Chamber leadership search and Jeffco EDC strategic priorities.
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About Jeffco EDC
The Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation strengthens Jefferson County’s economy through three integrated verticals: economic development, the West Metro Chamber of Commerce, and Leadership Jeffco. Working across business, government, nonprofit, and civic leadership, Jeffco EDC works to attract, retain, and expand opportunity for residents, employers, and communities across the county and its six cities. Learn more at jeffcoedc.org.
About the Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Arvada Chamber of Commerce is a convener, catalyst, and champion for the Arvada business community, leading initiatives in talent, housing, childcare, advocacy, and economic resilience, including B.O.L.D. 2026 and the Arvada Resiliency Taskforce. Learn more at arvadachamber.org.
Media Contacts: Ryan Hecht – ryan@arvadachamber.org or 303-424-0313
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