PHOENIX, ARIZ. (April 29, 2025) — The Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED) presented its annual Economic Development Distinguished by Excellence (EDDE) Awards during its Spring Conference at the El Conquistador Resort in Oro Valley, Arizona.
The EDDE Awards honor the best economic development practices for individuals, organizations, and companies that have significantly contributed to the advancement of economic growth in the state. Recipients are selected from a pool of nominations made by members of AAED.
Brad Smidt, CEcD, Senior Vice President of Business Development for the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) received the prestigious William Lampkin Award for Long-Term Excellence in Economic Development for his more than 30 years of service to Arizona communities. This award recognizes outstanding achievements by an individual who has made significant contributions to economic development efforts in Arizona and demonstrated a sustained commitment to AAED. Nominations are evaluated based on the overall economic impact of the individual’s efforts to Arizona, the nominee’s contributions to AAED, the development of strong relationships and community support, and contributions to the economic development profession.
Smidt is being honored for his transformative impact on the Greater Phoenix region’s economic landscape, having directly influenced over 250 company expansions and relocations. His strategic work with GPEC alone has resulted in 188 locates, creating over 57,000 jobs and $6.7 billion in capital investment, while also playing a crucial role in shaping legislation that fostered the region’s burgeoning data center ecosystem—solidifying his legacy as a key architect of the area’s advanced and competitive economy.
This year’s Best of Arizona Award, presented to individuals or organizations whose dedication to economic development significantly impacts Arizona’s economy, is nothing short of historic. TSMC’s $65 billion investment in Phoenix, now projected to exceed $100 billion, is transforming the region with a multi-phase semiconductor fabrication project spanning 1,100 acres. The associated Halo Vista mixed-used development expands on this important economic development opportunity and anticipates the creation of 62,000 high-wage jobs, 12 million square feet of industrial space. 3.5 million square feet for flex/office space, and 500,000 square feet for major destination uses at build out. Overall, TSMC Arizona has spurred the growth of over 40 supplier companies, enhanced local education through Mandarin immersion programs and semiconductor bootcamps, and established Phoenix as a global leader in advanced manufacturing.
“The EDDE awards highlight the vital role economic development professionals play in Arizona’s continued growth,” stated Marc Valenzuela, Awards Committee Chair for AAED. “Celebrating economic developer’s dedication to their communities and the impact of their work is crucial, as they are the driving force behind the state’s economic success, job growth, and the advancement of our field.”
Overall, 10 EDDE awards were presented to:
William Lampkin Long-Term Excellence in Economic Development
Winner: Brad Smidt, CEcD, Senior Vice President of Business Development, GPEC
Best of Arizona Award
Winner: City of Phoenix for TSMC Arizona
Economic Developer of the Year, Large Community
Winner: Mike Czechowski, CEcD, Economic Development Senior Project Manager, City of Tucson
Czechowski is recognized as a transformative leader in Tucson’s economic development, driving major projects like Belden’s $6.5 million investment and the Home Depot retail development. He has strategically expanded Tucson’s industrial capacity through significant annexations and land development initiatives.
Economic Developer of the Year, Small Community
Winner: Maggie Holmberg, AZED Pro, Economic Development Manager, Town of Chino Valley
Holmberg is celebrated for her impactful work in Chino Valley, notably securing $7 million for the preservation of Del Rio Springs and its future state park. Her leadership in acquiring the historic Fred Harvey buildings through the Greater Chino Valley Collaborative is set to enhance heritage tourism. Holmberg’s collaborative efforts with various organizations, including the Trust for Public Land and the U.S. Forest Service, demonstrate her commitment to regional advancement.
Economic Developer of the Year, Tribal
Winner: Vice Chairman Ricardo Pacheco of the Yavapai Apache Nation
Vice Chairman Pacheco is honored for his dedicated advocacy for tribal entrepreneurship, fostering tribal inclusion, and promoting cross-sector collaboration. His leadership facilitated small business development seminars through partnerships with NAU, and he supported the Westwood Development Group in securing a significant international distribution agreement. Pacheco’s initiatives are creating new avenues for economic independence and empowering tribal members to launch successful businesses.
Economic Developer of the Year, Emerging
Winner: José Contreras, Business Attraction Program Manager, City of Glendale
Contreras has made a rapid and significant impact in Glendale since 2024, quickly advancing his professional development and gaining national recognition. He’s been instrumental in attracting major projects to Glendale, utilizing innovative tools like GIS systems for enhanced site planning. Contreras is celebrated for his collaborative spirit, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to professional growth.
Large Organization of the Year
Winner: Greater Phoenix Economic Council
GPEC was recognized for its exceptional regional collaboration and commitment to economic development education, with extensive staff involvement in AAED committees and educational initiatives. In 2024, GPEC facilitated 50 company expansions and relocations, resulting in over 6,200 jobs and $2.16 billion in capital investment. Their global engagement, including international delegations and CHIPS Act advocacy, significantly contributed to their success, with 17 locates originating from international markets.
AAED Member of the Year
Winner: Bridgette Blair, AZED Pro, Economic Development Specialist, Town of Queen Creek
Having served as Associate Director for 11 years, Bridgette returned to AAED as a passionate volunteer, committee leader, and connector of people and ideas. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the EDDE Banquet Committee and has continued to shape the awards with her vision, creativity, and commitment to excellence. From launching handcrafted centerpieces to championing sponsorships, she embodies AAED’s spirit of collaboration.
New AAED Member of the Year
Winner: Erica Roelfs, Senior Economic Development Project Manager, SRP
Roelfs quickly became a key contributor to AAED, demonstrating leadership and creativity as Fall Forum Committee Chair and actively participating in government relations. Beyond AAED, she co-launched SRP’s Small Business Academy, a program providing crucial support to Arizona’s diverse entrepreneurs. Erica’s dedication to education, advocacy, and collaborative efforts sets a strong example for future AAED members.
Workforce Practitioner of the Year
Winner: Katherine Anderson, AZED Pro, Career Services Manager, Yavapai College
Anderson was recognized for her impactful workforce development initiatives in 2024, including organizing three major job fairs that connected hundreds of job seekers with thousands of employment opportunities. She expanded career services through an online portal, partnered with Indeed for resume assistance, and launched a mock interview program for healthcare students.
About the Arizona Association for Economic Development
AAED, founded in 1974, has a mission to serve as Arizona’s unified voice for responsible economic development through professional education, public policy, and collaboration. For more information on AAED, visit www.aaed.com or call (602) 240-2233.
