Latest News: Aerotropolis Hires New Executive Director

The Detroit Region Aerotropolis Development Corporation is proud to announce that Rob Luce has been appointed as Executive Director. Beginning March 6, he is responsible for the strategic development and day-to-day operations of the organization. He will report to the Aerotropolis Board of Directors.

“Rob’s experience, knowledge, and passion for economic development in Southeast Michigan make him the ideal leader for the Aerotropolis. His work with MICHauto and knowledge of the automotive sector will be a valuable addition to our organization,” said Tim Keyes, chair of the Detroit Region Aerotropolis Executive Committee.

Luce formerly served as the Director of MICHauto and Automotive Retention & Growth at the Detroit Regional Chamber, where he worked to market the state’s automotive assets, advocate the industry’s interests in Lansing, recruit automotive and next-generation mobility investment into Michigan, and create opportunities for automotive companies to augment their talent pipeline.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Luce was a legislative aide in the Michigan State Senate and served as fundraising director for a State Senate Campaign. He has also worked in government relations, and as an executive mortgage banker at Quicken Loans. Luce holds degrees from Eastern Michigan University and Adrian College as well as certificates in public budget management and local government management.

“The Aerotropolis region is ripe for development. Between Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Willow Run Airport, Class I rail capacity, and easy access to I-94, the Aerotropolis is an ideal locale for any supply chain dependent company. Additionally, the forthcoming American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti Township will further expand the appeal of the region and serve as a magnet for connected and autonomous vehicle R&D and testing. With industrial vacancy rates at historic lows and a limited number of contiguous multi-acre sites in Southeast Michigan, the opportunity to develop the Aerotropolis and recruit corporate investment into the region is significant – now more than ever,” said Luce.

Robert Luce
Robert Luce