CAREER CENTER
Professional Development
Build Your Learning Journey with AAED
AAED is committed to elevating the economic development profession and expanding capacity in communities across Arizona. As the state’s leading source of professional learning for economic developers, we offer programs that are practical, applied, and grounded in real-world work. Our programming draws on established best practices and professional standards and is shaped by the experience of peers across the field. Whether you’re new to economic development or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll find opportunities here to grow your skills and your network.
Where would you like to start?
AAED Academy & AZED Pro Certification
AAED’s Academy courses offer a comprehensive overview of key areas like business retention, attraction, taxation and finance, workforce development, and more, providing a solid foundation in the field.
Additionally, AAED offers the only state-specific economic development certification — the Arizona Economic Development Professional (AZED Pro) certification.
Academy courses are open to all and can be completed on an individual basis, or in pursuit of the AZED Pro. To achieve certification, students must complete six core courses and one elective within three years of beginning the program.
Basic Economic Development Course
Each year, AAED partners with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) to provide the Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC). This four-day intensive program provides attendees with a foundational understanding of economic development to grow and enhance community wealth, attract and retain jobs and investment, improve quality of life, and contribute to a strong tax base. Additionally, attendees participate in a simulated case study presented to a panel of judges on the final day of the course.
Certified Economic Developer (CEcD)
The Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) is the highest designation in the economic development profession and is offered by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
The certification provides you with the knowledge to transition into a higher-level role and/or a new area in the economic development field. Additionally, CEcDs often earn higher salaries and gain a competitive advantage when job hunting.
Does AAED offer resources to prepare for the CEcD?
Yes!
AAED partners with IEDC to provide the Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC) each year. This course counts as credit toward obtaining the CEcD certification and is open to economic development practitioners and providers nationwide. You do not need to be an AAED member to attend. Additionally, AAED provides exclusive resources to members preparing for the CEcD exam. These include:
- Access to our network of CEcD mentors
- Connections to fellow AAED members pursuing their CEcD to form study groups
- AAED recommended Quizlets
- Draft essay prompts
- General exam tips
Not currently an AAED member? View our membership types and complete your application!
Already an AAED member? Contact info[at]aaed.com to get access to our exclusive CEcD resources.
Compare Your Professional Development Options
Not sure which professional development option is right for you? Here’s a brief overview of each option’s structure or please reach out to us to discuss!
AZED PRO |
BEDC |
CECD |
|
| Best For | < 5 years experience or as needed to brush up on topics | 0-3 year experience or as part of CEcD requirements | > 4 years experience |
| Pace | Medium (1 year) | Fast (4 days) | Slow (multi-year) |
| Learning Environment | Synchronous (in-person) or self-paced (virtual) | Synchronous (in-person) | Synchronous (in-person) or asynchronous (virtual) |
| Learn More | AZED Pro Certification >> | BEDC Overview >> | CEcD Overview >> |