Edgar Campa-Palafox Economic Development Coordinator, Alachua County BOCC
1. What do you like most about living in Gainesville?
Gainesville is an energetic and diverse community with much to offer, like great local restaurants, nature trails and unique events. The area is currently experiencing an urban renaissance, with a growing vibrant urban core.
2. Tell us about your job or area of study. I serve as Economic Development Coordinator for Alachua County. I have a collaborating and facilitating role connecting county departments and expanding collaboration with other economic development stakeholders, fitting in the renewed spirit of innovation and collaboration in the region.
3. What are some of the biggest challenges you have encountered as a young professional?
Finding work/community involvement/personal life balance.
4. What is one of the best pieces of career advice you have ever been given?
A mentor once told me: “Professionals that have work/life balance are more effective, and potentially more successful. If possible, reduce your commute by living closer to your workplace. Every minute that your commute is reduced, the more time there is to allocate to other things, such as community involvement and hobbies.”
5. Outside of your job, what other activities are you involved in?
For several years, I served on the Gainesville Area Innovation Network Board. Since 2012, I have been serving on the ACEL Board in different roles.
6. What do you do for fun in Gainesville?
I like visiting Gainesville’s natural areas and trails. I am an avid history reader and a huge soccer and FCBarcelona fan.