ADEDC Vice President Justin Strickland Earns Prestigious Certification
Wednesday, August 7th, 2013
Justin Strickland, vice president of business development for the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), a national recognition that denotes a mastery of principal skills in economic development, professional attainment and commitment to personal and professional growth.
Strickland earned the designation after passing the certification exam, administered by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the premier organization for the economic development profession. Requirements for taking the exam include rigorous coursework and minimum five years experience in the field.
“I am very appreciate of the support I’ve received from our board, my co-workers, family and colleagues in the profession as I pursued the Certified Economic Developers designation,” said Strickland. “Numerous classes, participation in IEDC and passing the certification test have proven to be a great way for me to further my knowledge of economic development. I am proud to join those who are certified economic developers as I work to bring new jobs and investment to Albany-Dougherty County.”
Strickland has six years of economic development experience with the Albany- Dougherty Economic Development Commission, which fosters job creation and business investment in Albany-Dougherty County through the recruitment of new industry, the retention and expansion of existing industry and the renewal of community brand.
The Certified Economic Developer designation recognizes qualified and dedicated practitioners in the economic development field and sets the standard of excellence within the profession. Candidates must pass a rigorous and
comprehensive three-part, two-day exam, which tests a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency and judgment in key areas of economic development, including business retention and expansion, marketing, finance, work force development, community development, real estate, strategic planning and management.
“Through a lot of hard work and preparation, Justin has achieved the ultimate benchmark as a professional in the field of economic development,” said ADEDC President Ted Clem, who earned his Certified Economic Developer designation in 1997. “His achievement will help us garner much more respect as our organization works with our partner agencies in Atlanta, site selection consultants and prospective industry.”
As highly competent economic development practitioners, Certified Economic Developers work with public officials, business leaders and community members to create leadership to build upon and maximize the economic development sector. Excellence in economic development improves the well being, quality of life and opportunities for individuals, businesses and communities.
Strickland and Clem are two of 66 active Certified Economic Developers in Georgia; there are 1,000 active Certified Economic Developers worldwide.
Strickland is a graduate of Albany High School and the University of Georgia. He is married to Rebecca Strickland, a kindergarten teacher at Lincoln Elementary Magnet School in Albany. The couple has one child, Caroline, 4.
