State technology investment arm taps Mid-Missouri lawmaker as chief

February 24, 2026 - 04:19

State Senator Travis Fitzwater has been selected as the new executive director of the Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC). The Holts Summit Republican will assume leadership of the public-private partnership, which is tasked with promoting entrepreneurship and fostering growth in science and technology companies across the state.

Fitzwater succeeds Dr. Jack Scatizzi, a scientist with strong St. Louis connections who had led the agency since 2020. The appointment marks a significant shift in the organization's leadership profile, moving from a scientific background to one rooted in public policy and legislative experience.

In his new role, Fitzwater will be responsible for guiding MTC's strategy and overseeing its investment portfolio, which includes state-funded programs designed to support early-stage startups and innovation. Proponents of the selection highlight Fitzwater's understanding of state government and economic development as key assets for the agency's mission.

The lawmaker, who has served in the Missouri General Assembly since 2015, is expected to resign his Senate seat to take on the full-time position. His appointment is effective immediately, and he will work to advance Missouri's standing in the competitive technology sector, aiming to create high-quality jobs and attract further investment to the state.