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International Trade Specialist,
North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

Raleigh, North Carolina.
June 1994 - October 1996; April 1998 - August 2001.

By promoting food and agricultural exports throughout Asia, Smithson Mills worked closely with domestic producers and exporters. In this role, he conducted market research, formulated market entry strategies, and established relationships with importers. Mills led numerous delegations to majot trade shows throughout Asia and the Middle East, and was responsible for raising awareness of export opportunities through written articles, seminars, and talks with civic, business and educational groups.

 

Richard L. Hoffman  Center for Assessment & Research Alliances, Mars Hill College

(June 2005 - Present)
Smithson Mills provides program assessment and research services to governments, nonprofits and community organizations involved in economic and community development. He conducts feasibility studies for development projects as well as providing on-campus assessment services. Other responsibilities include formatting, administering, and analyzing market research and public opinion surveys. He manages a student staff of six and contracts for specific services from college faculty and independent consultants.

Agribusiness Developer for Western North Carolina, North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

Asheville, North Carolina (August 2001 - April 2005)
Focusing on value-added food processing, Smithson Mills consulted with food and agricultural enterprises who wished to expand or launch new products, and conducted market research to identify new opportunities for local farm-based businesses. Mills served as the lead project manager for developing Blue Ridge Food Ventures, a shared-use food processing center in Asheville, North Carolina. Mills served on projects allocating grant funding in excess of $1.5 million to area farm based businesses.