Colin Diaz, ACE, IOM, president and CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, has been awarded the first Certificate in Workforce Development Fundamentals program by the International Economic Development Council and the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Foundation. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the efforts to enhance the skills of chamber staff and economic development professionals. It also aims to broaden access to fair workforce opportunities and results.
“Being part of this cohort has allowed me to bring vital expertise back to Arizona to tackle workforce hurdles and foster economic growth,” said Colin Diaz. “It serves to augment the indispensable contributions chambers are making towards workforce development.”
This joint certificate program empowers professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the intersection of economic and workforce development while closing education gaps. Each certificate recipient completed an intensive and comprehensive six-week curriculum that includes hands-on learning experiences and practical applications of economic and workforce development principles. Recipients obtained a digital certificate and social media badge from ACCE and IEDC to showcase their achievement in the program.
“IEDC extends its congratulations to participants who embarked on this journey with us and our partners at the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Foundation,” expressed IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle. “With the completion of this inaugural certificate program, we are driving holistic economic development solutions that integrate economic growth and talent attraction.”
ACCE President and CEO Sheree Anne Kelly said, “This program drew interest from across the country, and I am excited to watch the catalytic leadership participants will bring to the challenges and opportunities in their markets.”
IEDC and ACCE will offer a second iteration of the Certificate in Workforce Development Fundamentals program from November through December, with availability for 60 attendees (30 per organization).
Learn more and register here.
