UT Center for Industrial Services Certifies New Economic Developers

The University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services (UT CIS) recently celebrated the 20th graduating class of its Tennessee Certified Economic Developer (TCED) Program.  This cohort brings the total number of Tennessee Certified Economic Developers to 129.

“Our Tennessee Certified Economic Developers have shown remarkable dedication in earning this designation,” said Tintin Czach, TCED Program Director.  “Their expertise will not only be a tremendous asset to their communities but will also play a crucial role in fostering sustainable growth and driving innovative development across the state. We are excited to see the positive impact they will make.”

Graduation was held at the IPS Training Center in Nashville. Graduates presented their Capstone Projects, which is the final requirement to achieve the TCEcD designation. TCED candidates completed a week-long Basic Economic Development Course, along with a series of six core courses and eight elective hours pertinent to economic and community development for a total of 92 instructional hours.  The TCED Program provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of economic trends, tools and core components required to compete in today’s global economy. 

The Fall 2024 TCED graduates are: 

• Gina Anzaldua, Cheatham County Economic and Community Development & Tourism Director. Her Capstone project was titled, “Discover Cheatham County.”
• Steven Bower, Economic Development Director for the City of Kingsport. His Capstone project was titled, “Embracing Community Growth: Addressing Concerns and Opportunities that Arise in Economic Development.”
•  Danielle Hagewood, Statewide Program Manager with TN Department of Transportation.  Her Capstone project was titled “The Long Road - How Positive Partnerships Bring Investments.”
• Dylan Hill, Director of Community Development for the City of Bolivar. His Capstone project was titled, “Incubation: Minimalizing Risks for All.”
• Blake Hopper, Executive Director of Henderson/Chester County Chamber of Commerce. His Capstone project was titled, “Tourism and the Potential for Growth in a Rural County.”
• Katie Kortekaas, Business Development Specialist with Southeast Industrial Development Association. Her Capstone project was titled, “Economic Sustainability:  Housing Affordability & Workforce Availability.”
• Lilibeth Leon, Special Projects Director with the Gallatin Economic Development Agency. Her Capstone project was titled, “The Value in Strategically Distributing PILOT Funds to Drive Economic Development Initiatives.”
• Jill Osborne, Program Manager with TN Department of Economic and Community Development. Her Capstone was titled, “Challenges of Site Development – The Story of Clarkrange Regional Business Park.”
• Carri Beth Rhea, City Clerk & Recorder for the City of Bolivar. Her Capstone project was titled, “Field of Dreams: Local Impact of Youth Sports.”
• Lisa Samples, Economic & Community Development Administrator with Tellico Reservoir Development Agency. Her Capstone project titled, “The Importance of Improving Industrial Property by Clearing Trees and Creating Direct Access.”
• Vickie Walton, Executive Director of Hardeman County Chamber of Commerce. Her Capstone was titled, “Revitalization Plan for Downtown Bolivar, TN.”

New graduates will now be members of the TCED Alumni Group, which provides continuing education and networking opportunities several times throughout the year.