HOUGHTON – MTEC SmartZone announced that Devin Leonarduzzi has joined the company to further develop its marketing and public relations activities.

Leonarduzzi is a recent Michigan Technological University graduate majoring in communication, culture and media in addition to a minor in journalism.

His work experiences include being a digital photography instructor for Summer Youth Programs at Michigan Tech, HDMZ media consultant at Michigan Tech, freelance video production, graphic design, and photography.

The Upper Peninsula native is originally from Iron River and joins SmartZone as the marketing assistant to continue the company’s success providing acceleration to high-tech Michigan businesses and building a prosperous economy for the area. Some of his primary responsibilities will be managing media communications and coordinating events.

“I really admire the SmartZone’s goals to create more job opportunities in Michigan. I’m fortunate to be working for a company whose objective is to bring new ideas and prosperity to the Upper Peninsula. It’s exciting to see where our communities will expand to,” Leonarduzzi said.

“We’re excited to have Devin on board. His experience with the CinOptic Enterprise at Michigan Tech has already made him a great asset to the entire team. We will be utilizing his communication and digital media skills to further develop this organization’s brand,” noted Marilyn Clark, chief executive officer of MTEC SmartZone.

Since April 2002, MTEC SmartZone has been guiding entrepreneurs and helping create high tech jobs in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula.

This is one of 15 Michigan SmartZones that provide office space, training, access to funding, coaching and other resources to help businesses owners develop ideas, patents and innovative opportunities.