Meet Kayla Robinson
Economic Development Manager
- Years with the City of Noblesville:
- I joined the city of Noblesville in September of 2024. So incredibly honored and excited to work with an all-star team.
- What was your first job and what lesson did you learn there that you brought with you to your current role?
- My first job was as a teaching assistant at a local preschool. It was extremely rewarding to be able to help children develop core skills that are not only useful in the classroom, but generally in life too. My first job taught me the importance of being ready to work, as well, as being willing to do anything and everything, and proactively seek out projects.
- What led you to your current role? (tell us about your education and/or background)
- I have been blessed with a distinguished career in fostering sustainable and resilient local economies. As a seasoned expert in economic development and community support, I served as a Senior Manager at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, where I played a pivotal role in facilitating business retention and attraction programs. In this capacity, I was instrumental in connecting Hoosier businesses with essential talent resources, including universities, government agencies, and community stakeholders. My efforts focused on streamlining the development of robust talent pipelines, meeting hiring goals, and implementing effective training and development programs.As a resident of Hamilton County, I have deep ties to the region and a thorough understanding of its economic landscape. I earned a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a masterโs degree in Public Administration from Ball State University, equipping me with a solid foundation in both business and public sector strategies.
Iโm dedicated to leveraging my experience and education to drive economic growth and community development, ensuring that local economies are both sustainable and resilient in the face of evolving challenges.
- I have been blessed with a distinguished career in fostering sustainable and resilient local economies. As a seasoned expert in economic development and community support, I served as a Senior Manager at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, where I played a pivotal role in facilitating business retention and attraction programs. In this capacity, I was instrumental in connecting Hoosier businesses with essential talent resources, including universities, government agencies, and community stakeholders. My efforts focused on streamlining the development of robust talent pipelines, meeting hiring goals, and implementing effective training and development programs.As a resident of Hamilton County, I have deep ties to the region and a thorough understanding of its economic landscape. I earned a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and a masterโs degree in Public Administration from Ball State University, equipping me with a solid foundation in both business and public sector strategies.
- What is your role in the department and what would a person come to you about?
- I serve as the Economic Development Manager, responsible for marketing the city of Noblesville and creating relationships with various stakeholders and companies to recruit and retain new businesses and capital investments.
- What do you like most about working in economic development?
- Economic development is more than just a job, Itโs my passion. I love having the ability to help create jobs, increase income levels, and improve the standard of living in Noblesville.
- Tell us about your community involvement.
- I previously served on OneZone’s Young Professional board and actively engaged in Youth Mentoring Initiative (YMI) providing mentoring for students by building and sustaining a mentoring community with the highest level of service. My biggest accomplishment is the community work I get to do with Wheeler Mission, organizing fundraising events to help the poor and homeless, these funds are used to help with food, shelter, and recovery programs.
- What do you like to do in your spare time?
- In my free time, I enjoy running, rooting for the Colts, and spending time with my husband and our 90lb Golden Retriever, Loki!
- What concert do you have to see at Ruoff Music Center?
- During the summer you can always find me attending concerts at Ruoff, itโs one of the finest outdoor amphitheaters in America! So far, my favorite concerts have been Keith Urban, Zac Brown Band, and Shania TwainโฆLet’s go girls!
- What sports do you watch and who do you cheer for?
- GO COLTS! You can always find me cheering them on!
- Whatโs your favorite quote?
- โBe kind. Let no one ever come to you without coming away better and happier.” — Mother Teresa
- Whatโs your go-to road trip snack?
- For me, the road trip snack bag is never without a box of Cheez-It crackersโmore specifically my favorite flavor, the Sharp White Cheddar.
- What do you order at a coffee shop?
- My go-to coffee order is a double Americano. However, as soon as the air turns crisp and leaves begin their golden transformation you can find me ordering my favorite seasonal coffee drinkโa pumpkin spice latte.
- Whatโs your dream vacation?
- My dream vacation would be in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. The crystal-clear waters, overwater bungalows, and serene tropical atmosphere make it the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure. I would include a variety of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and exploring the local culture. I also would make sure to spend plenty of time lounging on the beach and enjoying some delicious food and drinks!