16 Tech Community Corporation, the nonprofit organization responsible for the programmatic and physical development of the 16 Tech Innovation District, has announced Emily Krueger as its next President and CEO. Krueger will lead the organization effective June 1, succeeding Bob Coy, who announced his retirement last year.

Krueger joined 16 Tech in May 2018 as Chief Operating Officer. As the organization’s second employee, Krueger spearheads key organizational initiatives vital to 16 Tech’s progress and success, including the design and construction of public infrastructure projects most notably the international RFP, design and community engagement process for the 16 Tech bridge, an iconic piece of multi-modal infrastructure connecting 16 Tech to the 10th Street medical corridor over Fall Creek; the delivery of innovation services through the flexible office space, makerspace and artisan marketplace in Tech’s innovation hub; and regional coalition building with partners including the City of Indianapolis’ Build Back Better initiative.

Born in Indiana, Krueger spent her early career working for former U.S. Senator Richard G. Lugar in a variety of Capitol Hill and campaign positions. Prior to joining 16 Tech, she worked at LDI, one of Indiana’s largest private companies, as chief of staff and vice president of administration.

Krueger is an active community leader, lending her fundraising and communications expertise to a number of local nonprofit organizations focused on health and education. She is past Board Chair of Timmy Global Health, and has also served on committees for the Riverside Adventure Park, Kurt Vonnegut Memorial Library, Christel House International, the Lacy School of Business at Butler University, and The Mind Trust. Krueger is a graduate of Valparaiso University and the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, where she earned her MBA.

The selection follows an extensive search led by Jorgenson Consulting beginning Fall 2021.

“Emily has already played an essential role over the past few years in the remarkable transformation of 16 Tech from a promising idea into an exciting reality, and now she is in a great position to do even more,” said David L. Johnson, president and CEO of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, an anchor 16 Tech tenant, and 16 Tech Community Corporation Board chair. “She has proven her vision, capacity for collaboration and leadership to move the 16 Tech Innovation District forward over the pivotal years ahead. Emily has the board’s full confidence and support.”

As president and CEO, Krueger will continue to elevate 16 Tech as a place of innovation and economic opportunity. She will evolve the overall mission and vision; facilitate the physical development; constantly involve and engage neighboring communities; and serve as a regional and statewide leader for the advancement of an essential asset for Indiana’s future of inclusive growth.

Since 2018, more than $130 million has been invested in buildings and infrastructure in the district. In 2021, the district solidified a fast-growing network of dynamic spaces, tenants, partners, and programs, welcoming more than 50 companies and 500 employees. Home to startups, venture studios, key anchor institutions in the life sciences, data analytics and advanced manufacturing sectors, six universities and 21 restaurants and retail establishments. In 2022, 16 Tech celebrated a total of $1.3 million in funding to resident-supported projects in nearby neighborhoods through its Community Investment Fund.

“It’s been a privilege to watch 16 Tech go from an aspirational to an active place over the last several years,” said Krueger, current COO and incoming president & CEO of 16 Tech Community Corporation. “Under Bob’s leadership, 16 Tech has opened its first three buildings as well as attracted key anchors in life sciences, advanced manufacturing and technology. I’m excited to build on this proof of concept and to lead 16 Tech into the future, ensuring we that we have not just the physical spaces, but also clear programs to support innovation, entrepreneurship and talent throughout Central Indiana, especially for our closest neighbors.”

Tune in to learn more about what’s happening at 16 Tech Innovation District during a quarterly virtual community meeting this Friday, March 18 from 9-10 a.m. Register here.