Katy EDC President and CEO Lance LaCour Earns Certified Economic Developer Designation from IEDC
Lance LaCour, president and CEO of the Katy Area Economic Development Council (Katy Area EDC), recently earned the designation of certified economic developer (CEcD), a national recognition that denotes a mastery of principal skills in economic development, professional attainment, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. The CEcD exam was administered by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) on Sept. 29 and 30 in Houston at the Hilton Americas – Houston. With 21 years of economic development experience, LaCour has helped create over 14,500 jobs and over $2 billion in capital investment during the course of his career.
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 a rigorous and comprehensive three-part, two-day examination, which tests a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency, and judgment in the key areas of economic development, including business retention and expansion, marketing, finance, workforce development, community development, real estate, strategic planning, and management.
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 the economic development profession improves the wellbeing, quality of life, and opportunities for individuals, businesses, and communities. There are currently 1,235 active CEcDs in the U.S.
The International Economic Development Council is the premiere organization for the economic development profession. Serving over 4,600 members, IEDC is the world’s largest professional membership organization providing a diversity of economic development services, including research and advisory services, conferences, professional development and legislative tracking. IEDC provides economic developers with the information and tools they need to build local economies and strives to draw upon and increase the collective expertise and influence of its diverse membership.
Visit IEDC’s website at www.iedconline.org to learn more about membership, upcoming events, and how IEDC can serve you.
