Roger Woodworth to head Avista Development subsidiary

Roger Woodworth is the new president of Avista Development, a subsidiary of Avista Corp.

In that role, he’ll be looking for ways to spur economic development in the region through partnerships with other entities.

“Roger is our big thinker,” said Jessie Wuerst, an Avista spokeswoman.

He’ll be investigating new opportunities for the non-regulated subsidiary, such as ways to help advance plans for a medical school in Spokane or redevelopment of certain areas. Avista Development holds the company’s real estate portfolio, including the Steam Plant in Spokane.

Avista has a vested interest in the region’s economic vitality, Wuerst said.

“What’s good for building the strength of the community is good for our business,” she said.

Woodworth was hired as a fish biologist at Avista in 1979. He’s worked in various positions in the company, most recently as vice president and chief strategy officer for Avista Corp.

—Becky Kramer