Senator Baucus Unveils Latest Heavy Hitter in Job Summit Lineup: Fred Smith – Founder of FedEx

Founder of FedEx, One of FORTUNE’s "Most Admired Companies," Heading to Montana

Montana’s senior U.S. Senator Max Baucus announced today Frederick W. Smith, Chairman and CEO of FedEx, will serve as a keynote speaker at the 6th Montana Economic Development Summit this September in Butte. FedEx is routinely ranked on FORTUNE Magazine industry lists, including "World’s Most Admired Companies."

More than 600 Montanans work for FedEx at facilities in Billings, Butte and the cargo hub in Great Falls.

"Fred Smith is the real deal and I have no doubt his story will help inspire ideas for bringing more good-paying jobs to Montana. FedEx has a strong presence in Montana and allows our small businesses to send their world-class products around the globe, while supporting jobs here at home," said Baucus.

"Montana has been a great place to do business for FedEx, and we look forward to this opportunity to help strengthen its economy and increase jobs," said Smith.

In 1973 Smith founded FedEx, now a $44 billion global transportation and logistics company. In the PBS series, "Who Built America" Smith was profiled as an innovator who revolutionized the shipping industry. Smith is a member of the Aviation Hall of Fame, served as co-chairman of both the U.S. World War II Memorial Project and the campaign for the National Museum of the Marine Corps and was named a top CEO by both BARRON’S magazine and CHIEF EXECUTIVE magazine.

Montana businesses are encouraged to register for the Summit and check for updates online:

Online: http://www.MontanaJobsSummit.com

On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MontanaJobsSummit

Follow on Twitter: @MTJobsSummit

Additional Background on Economic Development Summits:

Montana Economic Development Summits are considered the most highly regarded jobs-focused events in Montana. The most recent Summit in 2010 attracted more than 150 businesses and 2,500 participants and featured nearly 40 panels and breakout sessions with entrepreneurs from around the state, business leaders from around the country and ambassadors from around the world.

The Summits feature a top-tier list of keynote speakers along with dozens of panels and breakout sessions designed to bring Montana businesses together with the biggest names in their industries:

* Past headliners have included: Warren Buffett and Bill Gates, along with panelists ranging from Cabinet officials like the U.S. Energy Secretary to Ambassadors from some of Montana’s largest trading partners.