Speakers

Cristina Paredes is the Executive Director of SC Nexus, South Carolina’s TechHub for Advanced Resilient Energy. SC Nexus is at the forefront of technology-driven economic development, advancing energy innovation to build a resilient energy value chain that enhances national security and global competitiveness. Under Cristina’s leadership, SC Nexus drives lab-to-market solutions, attracting cutting-edge companies and research to South Carolina. With over 20 years of experience in economic development and strategic leadership, Cristina is committed to driving innovation and resilience in the state’s energy sector. She has a proven track record of building partnerships, developing policies, and securing funding to advance technology and foster economic growth. Prior to her current role, Cristina served as a Senior Consultant at VisionFirst Advisors, where she led clients through strategic business expansions, improved economic competitiveness, and navigated local government processes. Her expertise in guiding major projects and managing complex programs has made her a trusted leader in the field. As the Director of the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality, Cristina was instrumental in overseeing the community’s most significant phase of economic growth. Under her leadership, high-profile projects like the Amazon Robotics Fulfillment Center and Danfoss Turbocor’s manufacturing facility came to fruition. Her efforts earned her national recognition, and her office secured multiple regional and national awards. Cristina is also deeply involved in academic and research collaborations, working with Tier I research institutions and industry leaders to drive recruitment, expansion, and commercialization efforts in the applied science sector. She helped secure U.S. Commerce Economic Development Agency funding for a regional innovation lab, further demonstrating her ability to accelerate technology deployment. Currently, Cristina is pursuing a Master of Legal Studies degree in Environmental and Energy Law from Texas A&M College of Law. She also holds a bachelor’s degree and a Master’s in Public Administration from Florida State University, along with a Certificate in Economic Development from the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute. She is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Her contributions to economic development have earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers by Consultant Connect in 2021. She has also been recognized by the Tallahassee Democrat as one of 25 Women to Know and received the Pinnacle Award from 850 Magazine for her impact on North Florida’s business community. In her free time, Cristina enjoys running, playing golf, and cheering on her alma mater, the Florida State Seminoles. Go Noles!