New Mexico Leaders Train for Economic Growth Certification

Local leaders from across New Mexico are now armed with powerful new tools to bring jobs and economic opportunity to their communities.

Western New Mexico University in Silver City hosted a week-long Basic Economic Development course in mid-July, welcoming community planners, tribal leaders, municipal managers and economic developers. The Freeport-McMoRan and WNMU Foundation-sponsored program marks the first step toward earning the prestigious Certified Economic Developer credential.

The training has been running since 1991, but this year's session brought something special. About half the participants came seeking professional certification, while the other half represented local communities hungry to strengthen their economic development skills.

"We hosted a fantastic cross-section of participants from across the state," said Course Director Noreen Scott from the International Academy for Economic Development. The diverse mix meant everyone learned from each other's unique community challenges.

The Ripple Effect

The certification these leaders are pursuing carries real weight in the economic development world. When community leaders earn their Certified Economic Developer credentials, they join an elite group recognized by the International Economic Development Council in Washington, D.C.

Only 19 programs nationwide offer this certified training. Having certified leaders signals to site selectors and corporate real estate firms that a community speaks their language and follows international ethics standards.

That credibility translates into tangible benefits. Communities with certified leaders build stronger trust with potential investors and create true partnership opportunities, even though New Mexico doesn't require the certification.

The week covered everything from industry attraction strategies to artificial intelligence applications in economic modeling. Participants tackled real-world case studies, learned workforce development techniques, and mastered financial deal structuring.

They also explored specialized topics like border-zone economics and tourism initiatives specific to New Mexico's unique position. Evening sessions included networking opportunities and a special dinner at historic Graham Gymnasium focused on working effectively with state legislators.

Professor Miguel Vicens from WNMU emphasized why this matters: "Economic development is at the heart of building resilient, forward-looking communities." Providing internationally certified training ensures New Mexico stays competitive and prepared for strategic growth.

The cohort graduated ready to put their new knowledge to work creating jobs and sustainable growth across the state.