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Corpus Christi, Texas – The Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Corporation (CCREDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Aaron Bowman as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 2.
Bowman is a retired U.S. Navy Captain, decorated Naval Aviator, and accomplished civic leader whose distinguished career spans military service, nonprofit leadership, and public office. He brings decades of executive leadership experience, strategic planning expertise, and a strong track record of driving economic growth and organizational excellence.
A 1983 graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Bowman served 28 years in the U.S. Navy. As a Naval Aviator, he flew the A-7E Corsair and F/A-18 Hornet and served as an instructor in both aircraft. Over the course of his military career, he accumulated more than 2,300 flight hours and completed more than 300 carrier landings aboard eight aircraft carriers.
In addition to his operational flying career, Bowman held senior leadership roles in advanced weapons and radar development, serving as both chief engineer and program manager for multiple defense programs. He holds a Department of Defense Level III Program Management certification. His naval career culminated in his appointment as Commanding Officer of Naval Station Mayport, a role he held from 2007 to 2010.
Following his retirement from active duty, Bowman continued his commitment to service in Jacksonville, Florida. As a Senior Vice President of the JAXUSA Partnership, he led regional economic development efforts across seven Northeast Florida counties. In this role, he directed strategy and execution for business relocation, expansion, and retention initiatives in targeted industries including financial services, transportation and logistics, advanced manufacturing, and health and life sciences.
Bowman also served as Executive Director of the United Service Organizations (USO) of Florida, where he oversaw statewide operations and fundraising while managing seven fixed USO centers in key locations such as Jacksonville, Pensacola, Orlando, and Tampa.
In addition to his executive leadership experience, Bowman served eight years on the Jacksonville City Council, representing more than 75,000 residents in District 3. He was elected Council President from 2018 to 2019 and remains a strong advocate for military families and veterans.
“Aaron’s leadership experience in complex organizations, his deep understanding of economic development strategy, and his lifelong commitment to service make him the right leader at the right time for CCREDC,” said Anna Aldridge, Chair of the CCREDC Board of Directors. “We are confident he will build on our momentum and help position the Coastal Bend for continued growth and long-term prosperity.”
As CEO, Bowman will lead CCREDC’s efforts to attract new industry, support existing businesses, strengthen workforce partnerships, and advance strategic initiatives that drive regional competitiveness.
Bowman and his wife Debbie have one son, Blaise, a University of Florida graduate and software engineer, and two rescue dogs, Beau and Layla.
Media Contact:
Sarah Tindall
COO
Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Corporation
361-882-7448
saraht@ccredc.com