(AP) _ Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman is heading south after she leaves the Statehouse to lead an economic development group centered around the Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center.

Skillman announced Tuesday she would become president and CEO of Radius Indiana on Feb. 1. Radius is a group of business and government leaders representing eight southern Indiana counties.

Skillman says it’s an “exciting time” to draw businesses to the region and capitalize on the new Interstate 69 corridor. She also cites the French Lick resort, Vincennes University’s new advanced manufacturing center and new business parks as attractions for companies looking to set up shop in southern Indiana.

Skillman is leaving the Statehouse after eight years serving with Gov. Mitch Daniels. Gov.-elect Mike Pence and incoming Lt. Gov. Sue Ellspermann take office Jan. 14.