HEDC representatives complete Economic Development Course
15 May 2023
News
MUNCIE – Three Hancock Economic Development Council representatives completed a weeklong Economic Development Course provided by the Indiana Communities Institute at Ball State University.
HEDC Communications Director Mitchell Kirk and HEDC Board Members Joe Murphy and Brian Sheehan attended the course May 8-12 in Muncie. They were among over 80 attendees from across the country. It was the 41st course in 38 years and the three are among more than 2,250 graduates.
The course is rooted in core sessions that are accredited by the International Economic Development Council. Sessions featured a variety of expert speakers in the areas of:
- The Indiana Economic Development Corporation
- Managing economic development organizations
- Professional ethics
- Strategic planning
- Data
- Economics
- Small business and entrepreneurship development
- Energy
- Finance
- Leadership
- Indiana Office of Community & Rural Affairs
- Workforce development
- Community and neighborhood development
- Business retention and expansion
- Marketing and attraction
- Comprehensive Community Wealth Approach
- Real estate development and reuse
- Housing
| “I was very excited to have this opportunity to learn more about economic development,” Mitchell Kirk said. “The more I know about the practice, the better equipped I’ll be to help tell HEDC’s story. I’m also extremely grateful for the scholarship I received to attend the course provided by the Indiana Municipal Power Agency.” |  |
Joe Murphy, an Economic Development Specialist with Garmong Construction Services, said he is thankful to the Indiana Communities Institute and Ball State for putting on such a strong economic development course. “The experience and knowledge provided by the speakers was unparalleled,” he said. “That coupled with the collaboration amongst all the attendees made this course stand out in my eyes. I’d highly recommend it as a continuing education class for those in the field, as well as those just getting started in their career as an economic developer. I am thankful to Garmong for allowing me to attend and represent our company at such a great event.” |  |
Brian Sheehan, Business Development Manager for HWC Engineering, enjoyed the course as well. “The folks at the Indiana Communities Institute do a great job,” he said. “I learned a variety of best practices that I am sure will come in handy for years to come. I am thankful that HWC Engineering sees the value in helping its employees grow both personally and professionally. It was fun to see three of HEDC’s newest representatives all attending this training.” |  |
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