The West Piedmont Planning District Commission (WPPDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Armbrister as its newest Executive Director. This strategic hire coincides with the signing of a new executive management agreement designed to strengthen the organization’s commitment to regional planning, development, and innovation.
“Michael brings years of experience to the PDC. Through his broadband efforts, he has expanded the PDC into new areas and driven its growth,” stated Jim Adams, Chairman of the WPPDC. “Michael is dedicated to the region’s success and elevating it for all. Our leadership team is fully confident in his direction.”
WPPDC and Solutions That Empower People, Inc. (STEP) have formed a beneficial partnership that will result in shared visioning and collaborative efforts around topics impacting our communities, including affordable housing, childcare, and transportation access. Through an executive management agreement between both organizations, Michael Armbrister will also serve as STEP’s Chief Executive Officer. The partnership will link two key organizations focused on strengthening our region and generating opportunities for our communities.
“The STEP board of directors is pleased to join West Piedmont PDC, bringing more opportunities to the communities we serve,” said Angela Phillips, Board Chair for STEP. “I look forward to continuing to work with Michael and the WPPDC to bolster STEPS’ mission and vision, to empower the people to overcome their barriers by providing a wealth of services and resources.”
Michael previously served as the Executive Director at STEP, where he led the organization in advancing its mission and fostering community impact. Before joining STEP, Mr. Armbrister was the Executive Director at WPPDC where he also served as Associate Director and Deputy Director. Before his tenure at WPPDC, Mr. Armbrister spent over 11 years with the Mount Rogers Planning District Commission as Economic Development Planner, Deputy Director, and Executive Director. His extensive leadership experience also includes serving as Executive Director and Clinical Director at two of Virginia’s free and charitable clinics, Mel Leaman Free Clinic and Bradley Free Clinic. In addition, Mr. Armbrister was an adjunct professor at Emory & Henry College between 2003 and 2018, teaching undergraduate and graduate-level courses in Geographic Information Systems and non-profit leadership. He holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Geography and Environmental Studies from Emory & Henry College, and a Master of Science degree in Geography from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
“I’m excited to rejoin the strong team at West Piedmont PDC, and I value the opportunity to connect two of our region’s innovative organizations focused on strengthening our communities,” stated Armbrister. “I look forward to working with the counties, cities, towns, and non-profits in the West Piedmont region through both WPPDC and STEP to make our communities the best places in Virginia to live, work, and enjoy.”
Solutions That Empower People (STEP), Inc. is a dynamic community action agency that provides services at significant milestones throughout life. Programs are designed to partner with individuals and families to help them overcome adversity and enhance their quality of life through community, economic, personal, and family development.
The West Piedmont Planning District is a regional planning organization serving the counties of Franklin, Henry, Patrick, and Pittsylvania; the cities of Danville and Martinsville; and the Town of Rocky Mount. The WPPDC seeks to carry out its mission by facilitating regional thinking and dialogue among the district’s local government, K-12 and higher educational institutions, economic development organizations, workforce development, and other key stakeholders. Learn more at westpiedmontpdc.org