The Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA) has announced the appointment of Ryan Starks as its newest board member. Starks was selected by Gov. Spencer J. Cox in accordance to House Bill 443, which passed in the 2022 legislative session and called for the governor to appoint a member of the board.

In addition to Starks’ appointment, the UIPA board named Abby Osborne as its new vice chair.

Starks brings a wealth of experience to the UIPA board and was appointed as executive director of the{mprestriction ids="1,3"} Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (Go Utah) by Cox on Jan. 12. Go Utah strives to foster business, industry and community growth in Utah through a range of financial incentives and grant programs.

“We look forward to having Ryan’s insight and vision as part of UIPA’s board of directors,” said Ben Hart, UIPA executive director. “His expertise in economic development and his commitment to Utah residents make him an excellent addition. We look forward to working with him to continue to drive economic opportunities in Utah.” 
Osborne currently serves as the Utah House of Representatives chief of staff and has been on the UIPA board since June 2022. Osborne has extensive leadership and experience with both business and legislative processes, which have proven instrumental in driving UIPA’s strategic priorities forward, Hart said.

“Abby has been a valuable board member since her appointment and will continue to lend crucial insight as she steps into the role of vice chair,” said Miles Hansen, UIPA board chair. “I couldn’t think of anyone better and wholeheartedly support the nomination.”{/mprestriction}