By Joshua Schuetz
Every year, CEDA staff come together for comprehensive training sessions aimed at deepening their understanding of various aspects of economic development. These sessions feature industry experts covering a wide range of topics, including business financing, housing development, and more.
This year’s training program focused on three key areas: self-development, food regulations, and project development. Leading the event was Alexandria Slocum, a dedicated CEDA team member.
The training commenced with Lisa Randall, another valued member of the CEDA team, guiding staff through exercises based on Gallup’s StrengthsFinder test. Prior to the meeting, team members took the test to gain valuable insights into their individual strengths and traits. Randall emphasized the significance of developing strengths for greater career and life satisfaction, rather than solely focusing on weaknesses.
The second presentation centered around land preparation for development, an essential aspect of CEDA team members work in their respective communities. Jenna Obernolte and Client Services Manager Brian Carlson, from Short Elliott Hendrickson, Inc. (SEH), a specialized project development firm, shared five valuable tips for successful development projects. These tips encompassed project readiness and due diligence, aligning projects with community needs, identifying project champions, navigating project politics, and finding suitable partners to ensure project success.
CEDA staff often engage in business development projects for food establishments like grocery stores and restaurants. Jodie Burke, the licensing liaison from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, delivered an informative presentation on the regulations and licensing processes specific to these food businesses. She clarified whether such businesses fall under the jurisdiction of the MDA or the Minnesota Department of Health.
The training concluded with a session led by Lynne Ryan, an Insights Licensed Practitioner from Do! Learning and Development, focusing on character traits and communication styles. This segment aimed to enhance team members self-awareness, enabling them to leverage their strengths in the workplace and foster improved respect and understanding among coworkers.
CEDA’s annual training serves as a valuable platform for staff to expand their knowledge of effective economic development strategies within the rural communities they serve. Through these enriching sessions, staff members gain valuable insights and skills to drive positive change and economic growth in their respective regions.
