Focus Watertown was founded in 1997 by a progressive group of business leaders. We are a non-profit economic development organization funded by public and private investors with the mission of increasing job opportunity and the property tax base of Watertown.

The associated Watertown Development Company (WDC) is a non-profit organization established to own and operate buildings, lands and development areas for the economic benefit of Watertown.

Craig Atkins, President, Focus Watertown & Executive Director of WDC

Craig has more than 15 years of economic development experience in South Dakota and has been serving Focus Watertown since 2003. As President and Executive Director of the WDC, he sets the strategic direction in marketing Watertown to companies and global industries considering Watertown as a place in which to do business and assists local businesses with expansion. 

Craig serves as Vice Chairman for the First District of Local Governments Board, is a member of the Mid America Economic Development Council and a member of the Rotary Club in Watertown.

Becky Mahowald, Marketing and Office Manager

Becky brings more than 10 years of experience in financial operations and office management to Focus Watertown.  Becky oversees the general operations of Focus Watertown.  Her roles include marketing, records management and accounting.  She is an active citizen of Watertown and has developed a wealth of knowledge about Watertown businesses and is committed to enhancing the community’s future. Becky is a proven resource for businesses.

Becky is a member of the Watertown Optimist Club, serves as a committee member for the Watertown Career Expo, a member of the Mid America Economic Development Council, and a member of the International Economic Development Council.

Becky holds a BS Degree in Community Health/Worksite Health Promotion from Mankato State University in Mankato MN.

Traci Stein, Director of Business Development

Traci brings 10 years combined experience in business management and marketing to Focus Watertown.  Traci is responsible for finding opportunities for business and industry growth in Watertown and helping Watertown businesses grow.  She is also responsible for helping attract new business to Watertown.  In addition, she is responsible for WDC property management, economic analysis and data tracking.

Traci is a member of the NESD SHRM group, Mid America Economic Development Council and the Watertown Optimist Club. 

Traci holds a MS Degree in Information Systems with emphasis in ECommerce and Database Administration from Dakota State University in Madison, SD, and a BA Degree in Business Administration from Mount Marty College in Watertown.  She also has completed the 10-hour Occupational Safety and Health Course for General Industry.

The Focus Watertown and WDC Board of Directors is composed of passionate, articulate and vision-minded business leaders who have led Watertown in becoming one of the most economically progressive communities in South Dakota.