Economic Developer in Pima County Earns AZED Pro Certification through the Arizona Association for Economic Development
(BENSON, Ariz. – Nov. 17, 2020) – The Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED) is pleased to announce Linda Polito, owner of Polito Associates Government Relations and Planning, has earned her AZED Pro designation from The Academy, AAED’s formal education program.
To earn an AZED Pro certificate, economic development professionals must complete seven courses in four fundamental course modules: Arizona’s Economy, Incentives and Business Assistance Programs, Arizona Taxation and Marketing and Business Development.
The Academy, which is supported by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), is a formal education program aimed at ensuring Arizona’s economic development professionals receive the most current and relevant training in topics pertaining to the practice of economic development in Arizona.
A structured ongoing professional development program is required to maintain the AZED Pro designation.
“Gaining AZED Pro designation is a differentiator when it comes to the overall expertise and knowledge of economic development professionals,” said Carrie Kelly, AAED’s executive director. “This commitment ensures that economic development professionals have the tools they need to continue propelling Arizona communities forward.”
Polito is one of 11 graduates from the program this year. The other graduates include:
- Grant Belter, City of Phoenix
- Arlene Diaz-Gonzalez, Town of Superior
- Paul Ferris, City of Winslow
- Trever Fleetham, Town of Payson
- Kendra Hoffman, City of Goodyear
- Donna Kennedy, City of Tempe
- Linda Oddonetto, City of Globe
- Ronald Ramirez, City of Phoenix
- Janine Solley, City of Apache Junction
- Carol Treuber, AAED member
AAED, founded in 1974, has a mission to serve as Arizona’s unified voice advocating for responsible economic development through an effective program of professional education, public policy, and collaboration. For more information on AAED, visit www.aaed.com or call (602) 240-2233.
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