Marshall University officials announced the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC)–formerly the Robert C. Byrd Institute–has a new leader. Derek Scarbro, who has served as interim director since last year and previously deputy director and director of business development, assumed the position earlier this month.
“Derek brings excellent insight, experience, and an impeccable skillset to the job,” says H. Toney Stroud, Marshall’s general counsel and chief of external affairs, “He has already been doing great work and I look forward to MAMC’s expanded impact under his leadership. MAMC is an indispensable economic asset for our region, and it’s in good hands with Derek at the helm.”
Scarbro replaces longtime director Charlotte Weber, who now serves the university as vice president for government relations. Scarbro praised Weber’s leadership and her dedication in building the former RCBI into a nationally recognized leader of entrepreneurial and manufacturing support.
“When you consider the 26,500 people who received training from RCBI or the thousands of companies who improved their operations with RCBI’s help, Charlotte’s impact was profound,” Scarbro says. “I’m honored to now follow in her footsteps and lead this amazing organization.”
Scarbro says the center is continuing to scale its services to help build a strong, resilient economy in the Mountain State.
Brandon Dennison, Marshall’s vice president of economic and workforce development, who oversees MAMC and other university units, says Scarbro’s appointment is a great step in the creation of an outstanding group pf professionals.
“President Brad Smith’s vision to harness Marshall University’s collective innovation, knowledge, assets and leadership for the good of our region continues to crystalize,” Dennison says. “MAMC is a key piece of this team, and Derek will be a valuable leader of our collaborative effort.”
Before joining RCBI in 2017, Scarbro served in the public sphere for his professional career. He worked in various West Virginia state government agencies such as the Governor’s Office, Treasurer’s Office, the Development Office, and led statewide nonprofit organizations. While in the Governor’s Office he served as the Director of Intergovernmental Affairs and was the gubernatorial appointee on the Interagency Workforce Development Taskforce.
Scarbro grew up in Kanawha County and is a graduate of St. Albans High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Marshall University. He lives in Huntington, WV, with his wife, Sara Payne, and daughter, Willa.
