[PROFILE] Alex Hernandez found his calling in economic development after envisioning a career in history. Now with the City of Peoria, he supports entrepreneurs through hands-on programs, mentorship, and recently helped launch a small business training initiative with GCU.

[PROFILE] Alex Hernandez found his calling in economic development after envisioning a career in history. Now with the City of Peoria, he supports entrepreneurs through hands-on programs, mentorship, and recently helped launch a small business training initiative with GCU.

[PROFILE] Passionate about tourism, Johnny Young champions community. Steve Irwin inspired, he fosters kittens, and fear crocodilians. He advises younger selves to explore diverse economic development paths. Recent wins include board election and GTP certification.

[PROFILE] Eric Prochnow believe it’s important to embrace diverse skills, invest in community, and seek mentorship. He champions continuous learning, like AZED Pro. A career highlight? Leading Phoenix’s Downtown Redevelopment Plan!

[PROFILE] Madalaine McConville advises their younger self: explore the field earlier. She stresses on-the-job learning and mentorship, highlighting AAED. A recent win: managing Tempe’s property inventory, crucial for future development.

[PROFILE] Jose Contreras emphasizes relationships, expertise, and patience. He advises newcomers to be “generalists,” exploring all facets of the field. A recent win: handling numerous development leads and attending key industry conferences.

[PROFILE] Braxton Hynes encourages emerging leaders to embrace curiosity, seek mentors, and see life as an experiment. Recent wins include aiding a menswear retailer’s downtown move and contributing to Phoenix’s Digital Twin rollout.

[PROFILE] Ryan Wissman emphasizes patience and networking. He stresses the diverse career paths within economic development and the importance of understanding its interconnectedness.

[PROFILE] Claire Bruns highlights the InnovationHub’s 10-year success supporting entrepreneurs as a career win. She values mentorship and advises young professionals to strategically network and understand the market.

[PROFILE] For Fiona Onyango, success in economic development encompasses far more than obtaining a college degree and demonstrating unwavering dedication and focus in the workplace.

I’m proud of the role I have played in the conception and development of a Dynamic Dashboard and Project Tracker as an Economic Development Specialist for the City of Buckeye. This project has required patience and steadfast commitment. Still, by staying diligent and collaborating with the city’s GIS team, Our Economic Development Projects Dashboard has proven to be a game-changer for us to manage and attract projects.