Lori Haslem is an economic development professional with extensive experience advancing rural economic growth, infrastructure development, and workforce opportunities throughout Utah. Her career includes leadership roles with one of Utah’s first innovation hubs, the Vernal Innovation Hub, where she was instrumental in its development and launch. As a Startup Specialist, she advised entrepreneurs and created programs designed to help new businesses succeed.

Lori also served as a Business Advisor with the Women’s Business Center of Utah, supporting women entrepreneurs across the state. Prior to joining the Utah Inland Port Authority, she worked with the Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Development, Center for Rural Development & Community Outreach, as a Rural Economic Development Manager serving six counties in Northeast Utah.

Throughout her career, Lori has worked to strengthen rural communities by supporting business growth, guiding infrastructure and economic development initiatives, assisting with grant strategies, and fostering partnerships among local, state, and private-sector stakeholders.

Born and raised in Vernal, Utah, Lori experienced firsthand the economic cycles of the oil and gas industry. Those experiences inspired her passion for expanding diverse job opportunities in rural Utah and building long-term economic sustainability that allows families and future generations to thrive where they live.