CCADC’s Fox one of first to receive workforce development certificate

To The Press

The International Economic Development Council and the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Foundation have announced the recipients of the inaugural Certificate in Workforce Development Fundamentals program awardees, and one of them is Tim Fox, CEO of the Charles City Area Development Corp.

Fox is one of 52 recipients nationwide.

The effort between the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Foundation advances the missions of both groups, they said in a news release.

The program is aimed at “enhancing the skills of chamber staff and economic development professionals while expanding equitable workforce opportunities and outcomes,” they said.

As part of the six-week curriculum completed by each certificate recipient, Fox took part in expert-led sessions, hands-on learning experiences, practical applications of economic and workforce development principles and an online exam.

Nathan Ohle, president and CEO of IEDC, applauded the dedication of the participants and underscored the program’s role in promoting “holistic economic development solutions that integrate economic growth and talent attraction.”

“Our partnership with ACCE has set a new standard for collaborative professional growth initiatives through this program, paving the way for a vast network of passionate, dedicated economic and workforce development experts,” Ohle said.

ACCE President and CEO Sheree Anne Kelly echoed that sentiment, saying these first certificate recipients “are bringing essential skills back to their regions to address workforce challenges and promote economic prosperity.”

“Their dedication highlights the pivotal role chambers of commerce and economic development organizations play in shaping the future of our communities, especially when they are working hand-in-hand,” Kelly said.

Kelly said the program’s graduates will bring “catalytic leadership” to address workforce challenges and opportunities in their areas.

The program drew interest from diverse regions across the country, and the success of the inaugural group sets a promising precedent for future collaborative efforts in advancing workforce development initiatives, the two groups said.