Leveraging AI and Technology for Learning & Workforce Solutions

Ben Williams serves as the Economic Recovery Corps Fellow hosted by WESTMARC, where his expertise in convening, regional collaboration, and innovation help increase resilience, preparedness, and economic strength for businesses and partners across the West Valley. In this role, Ben is advancing initiatives that foster economic growth through digital transformation in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country.

Ben also serves as the Government Relations Manager for The Connective, Greater Phoenix’s smart region consortium. At The Connective, he is a convener and coalition-builder, bringing partners together in scalable smart city solutions that bridge public, private, and academic sectors. Notable initiatives include the regional broadband task force, annual CONNECTED conference, and ongoing workshops on emerging technologies to support local governments in understanding and implementing modern tools.

Prior to joining WESTMARC and The Connective, Ben earned a Master of Public Administration from Arizona State University and was honored to participate in the Marvin Andrews Fellowship in Urban Management. His early career included strategic roles with the cities of Tempe and El Mirage, the Valley Benchmark Communities, and the Alliance for Innovation.

Ben is committed to fostering community connections, and does this in his own community through storytelling, as the host of the “Come, Unity” podcast. This platform highlights the unique experiences of local residents, aiming to bridge divides, cultivate curiosity, and deepen understanding through honest conversations and sharing stories. Ben is thrilled to bring this same energy and creativity to serve the beautiful, rich, and economically vibrant West Valley communities.