Richardson picks economic development secretary

Gov. Bill Richardson today announced the appointment of former state Rep. Fred Mondragon as the new secretary of the Economic Development Department.

“Fred has the qualifications, ability and drive to continue attracting high-tech industries that will keep bringing good jobs to New Mexico,” Richardson said in a news release.

Mondragon, who is currently director of Albuquerque’s Office of Economic Development, replaces Rick Homans, who became director of the New Mexico Spaceport Authority on Tuesday.

“I look forward to applying the successful principles and strategies on a statewide level that have resulted in so many companies choosing Albuquerque during the last couple years,” Mondragon said in the release.

As director of Albuquerque’s economic development department, Mondragon participated in the recruitment or expansion of Tesla Motors, Verizon Wireless, Eclipse Aviation, Advent Solar and Albuquerque Studios. He also developed initiatives to improve resources for local business expansion and to better assist existing small- and medium-sized businesses in Albuquerque. Under Mondragon’s stewardship, the city’s film and international trade divisions have seen improved success.

Mondragon, who has more than 30 years of experience in the private sector and public administration, served three terms in the state House of Representatives, and has extensive experience in the healthcare and information technology fields.

He has been the chief executive officer of University of New Mexico Hospital and the deputy chief administrative officer for the City of Albuquerque.