Charles Bair is a nationally recognized business executive with more than 30 years' experience as a president and chief executive officer of several Midwestern industries. He headed the economic development efforts for the University of Illinois Extension office in Hancock County. He is currently executive director of the Western Illinois Economic Development Authority (WIEDA). WIEDA was created by the State of Illinois to serve the 13 Western Illinois counties. He has also been active in many community efforts.  He is a member of the Prairie Hills Resource Conservation and Development Council.