Shane Westcott Looks Back on His Tenure as PCDC Board President

April 11, 2025

Shane Westcott is ending his six-year tenure serving the Phelps County Development Corporation (PCDC) board and his second year as board president, but not without leaving the organization in good hands. Under Westcott's guidance, along with other PCDC board members, Phelps County has grown and is poised for additional opportunities in the coming years.

“My goal was to bridge the gap between agriculture and economic development,” says Westcott. “I wanted to help everybody understand that the two go hand-in-hand. So far, I feel like we’re going in the right direction.”

Along with bringing his agriculture perspective to the board, Westcott offered his business acumen and came with a hunger to see Phelps County grow. Here are a few recent highlights from his time serving PCDC.

Westcott Helped Bring DG Fuels to Phelps

One of the biggest projects in Phelps County recently is the arrival of DG Fuels, which uses waste products from farms to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This plant will affect the entire region as farmers bring their soybeans and corn stover to Phelps County. It will create additional revenue streams to grow farmers' wealth.

“This affects every farmer in the region in a positive way,” says Westcott. “The farmers in the area saw the benefits right away and have been on board since the project was first discussed.”

Bringing DG Fuels to Phelps County could have secondary economic development benefits. This region will be a key player in the Nebraska BioEconomy and, because of its success, could attract more businesses and residents.

“Shane has strengthened our efforts to build an enduring economic foundation in Phelps County,” says Ron Tillery, Executive Director of PCDC. “We are fortunate to have committed people on our board of directors and Shane is a textbook example of what organizations want and need in leadership positions. He loves what he does and it’s clear that he loves his community.”

Phelps County Continues to Address Local Housing Needs

When reflecting on his time as PCDC president, Westcott also mentioned his efforts to address the housing needs in Phelps County. “There’s a lot of demand for housing in our area, along with most small communities in the state,” he says.

Growing Phelps County will be a challenge if there isn’t ample housing for new residents. Westcott has worked to bring development projects to the area and add new homes to Phelps County. Even small projects can make a big difference – especially to the families who move into those newly-built houses.

“Sometimes, you find people who are willing to step up and commit their personal time and resources to make things happen for the good of the community,” says Tillery. “That’s what Shane has done time and time again.”

PCDC Has Taken a Strategic Approach to New Industries

Over the years, the economic development team in Phelps County, led by Westcott and his board of directors, has become smarter about what types of companies and industries it recruits. Instead of trying to be everything for everybody, Phelps County has gotten better at showcasing its strengths and building a strong business community.

“A lot of things come across our desk and not everything fits here,” says Westcott. “There are a tremendous number of organizations and industries that do fit, but they might not realize it.”

Westcott also speaks highly of the staff at PCDC, speaking specifically on the vision developed by Ron Tillery, the executive director.

“We’ve made tremendous strides with Ron’s leadership,” says Westcott. “Economic development is a marathon and that’s what we’ve done. We’ve made conscious efforts to make our own momentum and go after companies that are a good fit instead of waiting for them to come to us.”

He adds that the board is incredibly active and committed to moving Phelps County forward. “I’ve been blessed to be involved with it.”

PCDC Is Moving Forward with a Unified Vision

Success in economic development can’t be defined by a single project. While Westcott is proud of DG Fuels' arrival, it reflects the greater vision of PCDC as it works toward the future of Phelps County. Without a high quality of life and housing investment, new industries can’t succeed here. The PCDC staff and board of directors are committed to taking a multi-faceted approach to ensure stable and consistent growth in the region.

“My goal is for my kids to have someplace to come back to so they can get jobs and build their lives here,” says Westcott. “More people are moving to our town and like what they see. PCDC has done a great job creating the right kind of momentum and growth for our size.”

Phelps County has productive soil, clean water, and the best people. Passionate residents like Westcott will move this beautiful corner of Nebraska into the future.

Learn More About PCDC

Phelps County Development Corporation has the tools, information, and skills to assist you with relocation for your business or family. PCDC is ready to help with housing and project advocacy, including permitting, timely utilities, and financial assistance. Contact PCDC at (308) 995-4148 or pcdc@phelpscountyne.com today. To further explore “Why Phelps,” download the community guide.