Posted: March 15, 2024
Pensacola, FL – Regional economic development professional, Shane Chadwick, who serves as business intelligence and marketing manager with Florida’s Great Northwest, has earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
Florida's Great Northwest serves as the primary economic development organization for the 13-county region of the Florida Panhandle. The team is responsible for designing and implementing regional strategies aimed at attracting businesses within target industries to Northwest Florida. As part of their commitment to providing excellent service to stakeholders and prospective companies, the team ensures they possess the necessary skills and expertise in economic development. The Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation is awarded to professionals who demonstrate mastery in the field of economic development and show a dedication to continuous personal and professional growth. Currently, there are more than 1,200 certified economic developers worldwide.
“Shane’s determination and focus to achieve this milestone in his professional journey makes me extremely proud,” said present & CEO of Florida’s Great Northwest, Jennifer Conoley, CEcD. “His commitment to this profession has been solidified by this process. His continued education not only demonstrates excellence in the profession, but it also shows his personal commitment to improving the wellbeing, quality of life, and opportunities for how we live, work, and play in Northwest Florida,”
The CEcD designation recognizes qualified and dedicated practitioners in the economic development field and sets the standard of excellence within the profession. Candidates must pass two rigorous and comprehensive written and verbal examinations, which test a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency, and judgment in various disciplines, including real estate development, business retention and expansion, credit analysis, marketing and attraction, workforce, and managing economic development organizations.
"I am very appreciative of the Board of Directors of Florida’s Great Northwest, the Florida Economic Development Council, and the Florida High Tech Corridor for investing in my professional development," said Shane Chadwick, CEcD. "As a result of this investment, not only did I achieve the CEcD, but I also enhanced my professional education and network and my ability to serve the 1.1 million residents in Northwest Florida to create sustainable and equitable jobs."
Florida’s Great Northwest is the regional economic development organization for the 13-county region of the Florida Panhandle. The organization's purpose is to promote Northwest Florida for economic growth and diversification, to advocate for economic development issues that affect the region, and to collaborate to improve regional competitiveness. Beyond our beaches, Northwest Florida offers business competitive, bottom-line advantages in workforce training, upgraded infrastructure, access to a host of defense assets, and a diverse base of industries that already call the region home. For more information, visit FloridasGreatNorthwest.com.
