WHAT’S NEW & WHO’S NEWS
Ron Hicks Joins Central Hudson to Direct Utility’s Economic Development Programs
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY—Central Hudson Gas & Electric announced on May 4 that it has hired Ron Hicks as Director of Economic Development to help ensure the utility’s infrastructure is fully leveraged to support business attraction, expansion and job creation.
Mr. Hicks will work closely with economic development organizations, local governments and state partners across Central Hudson’s service territory to attract new businesses, support the expansion of existing employers and encourage job creation and community growth.
His work will be focused on strengthening the regional economy while maximizing the value of Central Hudson’s existing infrastructure. These efforts are intended to help stabilize the customer base, enhance system efficiency and deliver long-term cost benefits for ratepayers.
With more than 25 years of experience in economic development and strategic business planning, Mr. Hicks brings a proven track record of driving investment and creating opportunities for Hudson Valley communities, the utility said in a statement.
“Ron has been a fixture in the regional business community for decades and his vision aligns perfectly with Central Hudson’s mission to power the lives and businesses of residents across the Hudson Valley,” said Steph Raymond, president and CEO of Central Hudson. “I’m thrilled to have Ron join our team and confident he will play a pivotal role in advancing our commitment to sustainable growth and greater economic stability for the communities we serve.”
Mr. Hicks has held a range of leadership roles at the city, county and state levels, both within and beyond New York. His service has included deputy county clerk of Dutchess County, regional director for former Governor George Pataki, regional director for Empire State Development, and, most notably, a long tenure with the Office of the Dutchess County Executive.
A resident of the Town of LaGrange, he holds a bachelor’s degree from Marist College and a master’s degree from the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy at SUNY Albany.
E.V.P. Bryan Girsch of Wohl Diversifified Services Elected to Building Contractors Assn. Board
By GEORGE DRAPEAU III
TARRYTOWN, NY—Bryan Girsch, the executive vice president of Wohl Diversified Services, was unanimously elected on March 18 to the Board of Directors of the Building Contractors Association of Westchester & The Mid-Hudson Region, Inc., at the group’s quarterly meeting here on March 18. The announcement was made by BCA Executive Director Matthew Pepe.
As a new board member, Mr. Girsch now represents the interest of more than 55 major contracting companies that serve the public and private sectors as signatory employers with many of the union building trades locals in the lower Hudson Valley.
Mr. Girsch has been a driving force behind his company’s growth and innovation since he joined the enterprise in 2021. Wohl Diversified Services (WDS) is a fourth-generation family business that undertake many specialized projects in the region. Among them have been services provided to major employers and national brands such as Disney, World Wrestling Entertainment, Regeneron and Lionsgate Studios. His strategic vision and operational expertise have been crucial in managing these high-profile ventures.
“Bryan is known for his collaborative leadership style,” commented Jonathan Wohl, chairman of WDS. “Bryan is committed to mentoring others to become emerging leaders, essential office staff and highly productive field workers. His contributions continue to drive Wohl Diversified Services’ success, ensuring its readiness for future challenges and opportunities, while upholding the company’s time-tested principles and storied legacy.”
Mr. Girsch brings to the BCA an executive’s perspective—to determine and executing strategic goals with operational expertise—which has been crucial in the management of his own company for its fiscal health and risk mitigation. He also looks forward to contributing to the BCA his perspectives on safety and quality in the building and construction procurement process to the highest standards for his workers and clients, he added.
“For more than 60 years, the BCA has worked with private owners, regional developers, engineers and architects who seek high-quality professionalism in building construction services that are essential to the lasting success of building projects,” he said. “I hope to expand the association membership and channel my keen interest in technology to help streamline internal processes that will benefit all BCA-aligned companies so they become more productive and profitable.”
He concluded, “I’m proud to be an integral part of the BCA’s legacy and leadership. The association is a tightly knit network, and I look forward to using my knowledge and experience to help advance our organization to better serve our contractors members and subcontractors in the years to come.”
Mr. Girsch also serves on the board of the Subcontractors Trade Association (STA) and Plasters and Spray Fireproofing Contractors of Greater New York (P&SFC), where he continues to advance best-industry practices and to foster professional development.
In his early career, Mr. Girsch built an impressive career in professional sports, working with the Florida Panthers and the New York Rangers. Additionally, he played a pivotal role at a Sports and Entertainment agency, managing high-profile brands that included UFC, Cirque Du Soleil, Warner Brother and HBO.
Mr. Girsch received his B.A. degree in management from Florida State University. In his free time, he enjoys playing golf, coaching youth sports and building web applications.
Published: May 26, 2026