Employee Spotlight: Meet Bill Forrester

Bill Forrester

Bill Forrester’s career in community and economic development began shortly after he and his wife, Sheila, moved to Johnson City following graduation. Armed with a Master of Public Administration from the University of Tennessee, Bill was eager to begin a career in public service. However, a hiring freeze at the City of Bristol prevented his internship from transitioning into a full-time position. Undeterred, he accepted a supervisor role at Fingerhut Incorporated in Piney Flats, where he gained valuable leadership experience while continuing to pursue his long-term professional goals.

Through networking with local leaders, Bill became aware of an opportunity with the First Tennessee Development District (FTDD). After interviewing for an open position, he officially joined the organization on June 7, 1999, marking the beginning of what has now become 27 years of dedicated service to the communities of Northeast Tennessee.

Bill holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Tennessee. He is also a Tennessee Certified Economic Developer and has participated in regional leadership programs in both Johnson City and Kingsport. Earlier in his career, he was recognized as a “40 Under 40” honoree. More recently, he became a licensed contractor in Tennessee, further strengthening FTDD’s capacity to expand housing initiatives across the region.

Bill considers the most rewarding aspect of his work to be leading a team committed to improving quality of life throughout Northeast Tennessee. Over time, grant writing has become one of his most critical skills, helping secure substantial funding for infrastructure, housing, planning, utilities, and community development projects. He is motivated by the diversity of the work, whether supporting major industries with infrastructure needs, assisting utilities in securing funding, or helping individuals remain safe in their homes through housing rehabilitation. No two days are the same, which continues to make the work both meaningful and exciting.

Among his many accomplishments, one of Bill’s proudest is a Community Development Block Grant project that brought clean water to the rural Sutherland community in Johnson County, TN. Due to its location outside of Damascus, VA and reliance on a Virginia water source, the project faced years of delays and complex coordination across state lines. Through persistence, collaboration, and leadership spanning 11 years and two county administrations, the project was ultimately completed, providing residents with safe, reliable water. For Bill, this achievement stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and commitment to long-term goals.

Bill believes that strong teamwork is built on transparency, a positive attitude, and a shared commitment to serving others. He credits his success to responsiveness, meeting deadlines, and ensuring that communities and individuals do not face unnecessary delays, which are principles he emphasizes daily within his team.

Outside of his professional work, Bill serves on several boards, including Goodwill Tenneva, Coalition for Kids, and the Eastern Eight Community Development Corporation. He enjoys mountain biking and pickleball and values time spent with his family. Sheila, his wife, is a long-time pharmacy manager, and their children, Maggie and Hayden, are both graduates of the University of Tennessee and are building successful careers of their own. The family attends Grace Fellowship Church in Johnson City, and Bill and Sheila also participate in a weekly Sunday School class as well.

At the heart of Bill Forrester’s work is a deep commitment to service, principled leadership, and creating a lasting, meaningful impact across Northeast Tennessee’s communities.