Nate Clayberg, Director of Business Retention and Expansion with the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber 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 October 18 and 19 in Fort Worth, TX at the Fort Worth Convention Center. In May, Clayberg joined the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber after serving as the Executive Director of the Buchanan County Economic Development Commission since 2010. Clayberg is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute, Heartland Economic Development Course and holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Iowa State University and a Master’s Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University.
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, technology-led economic development and management.
“Much of what we know about economic development comes from the practical day in, day out interaction with the businesses in the Cedar Valley to address their specific needs and help identify innovative solutions,” says Clayberg, “It is tremendously valuable to add to this the resources, experience, and variety of knowledge base of leaders in this field. “
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 well-being, quality of life and opportunities for individuals, businesses and communities. There are currently over 1,000 active CEcDs in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Clayberg is the third member of the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber Economic Development team to receive the CEcD distinction, joining CEO Steve Dust and Vice President of Economic Development Lisa Skubal.
“This certification further demonstrates that economic development activities in the Cedar Valley are being led by qualified professionals, drawing on best practices and proven techniques to grow the regional economy,” says Dust, “We are proud of Nate’s accomplishments and his determination to help businesses in the Cedar Valley succeed.”
The mission of the Greater Cedar Valley Alliance & Chamber is to increase economic vitality and wealth by leading collaborative economic and community development. Details about the many programs and initiatives of the Alliance & Chamber can be found at www.cedarvalleyalliance.com or by calling Steve Dust, CEO at (319) 232-1156.
About IEDC:
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit membership organization serving economic developers. With more than 4,000 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities, by creating, retaining and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth and provide a stable tax base. IEDC members help business and institutions create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions.
Learn more about IEDC: www.iedconline.org