BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) - ECPv6.15.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.medamd.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20200308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20201101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20210314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20211107T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T130000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20251201T162213Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260215T225347Z UID:81523-1771405200-1771419600@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2026 Economic Development Day DESCRIPTION:When: February 18\, 2026\, from 9 AM to 1 PM\nWhere: President’s Conference Center/West\, Miller Senate Office Building\nPlease join us on February 18\, 2026\, for Economic Development Day! Held during the legislative session in Annapolis\, Economic Development Day is your opportunity to hear from key officials on the issues that impact your job creation efforts. Join us to connect with legislators\, observe hearings from the State House\, and learn more about economic development-related legislation that will be considered by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2026 session! \nThis event is for MEDA Members and their guests only. \nDraft Agenda\n9:00 AM Registration Opens \n9:15 – 9:40 AM Welcome and Continental Breakfast \n\nTammi Thomas\, MEDA Board President\nThe Honorable Senator Stephen S. Hershey\nThe Honorable Delegate Lily Qi\n\n9:45  – 11:30 AM State House Session Observation and Meetings with Legislators \nNote: these meetings are to be scheduled by your office \n11:30 AM – 12:00 PM Lunch \n12:00 – 12:15 PM Public Policy Awareness Committee Update \n\nIntroduction: Pam Ruff\, Executive Director\, MEDA\nAndrea Mansfield and Lori Valentine\, MEDA Public Policy Awareness Co-Chairs\n\n\n12:15 – 12:45 PM Keynote Speaker \n\nIntroduction: Tammi Thomas\, MEDA Board President\nThe Honorable Brooke E. Lierman\, Comptroller of Maryland\n\n12:45 – 1:00 PM Closing Remarks \n\nTammi Thomas\, MEDA Board President\nPam Ruff\, Executive Director\, MEDA\n\n1:00 PM State House Session Observation and Meetings with Legislators \nNote: these meetings are to be scheduled by your office URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2026-economic-development-day/ LOCATION:President’s Conference Center/West\, Miller Senate Office Building\, 11 Bladen Street\, Annapolis\, MD\, 21401\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260115T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260115T133000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20250811T143414Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260115T130108Z UID:78341-1768464000-1768483800@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2026 MEDA Winter Conference DESCRIPTION:***This event is sold out! MEDA does not permit walk-in registrations or offer refunds for this event.\nWhen: January 15\, 2026\, from 8 AM to 1:30 PM\nWhere: Governor Calvert House\, Annapolis\, MD\nTheme: 2026 Legislative Outlook For Economic Development\nAt the 2026 MEDA Winter Conference\, public and private sector leaders share their thoughts on economic development-related legislation that the Maryland General Assembly will consider during the 2026 session. \nClick here to view the Draft Minutes from the 2025 Fall Conference Business Meeting. \nSponsorship Opportunities \n \nAgenda\n8:00 – 9:00 AM REGISTRATION AND CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST \n9:00 – 9:20 AM WELCOME TO ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY AND ANNAPOLIS \n\nIntroduction: Kristen Pironis\, CEO\, Visit Annapolis and Anne Arundel County\nHonorable Steuart Pittman\, Anne Arundel County Executive\nAdam Strott\, Economic Development Manager\, City of Annapolis\nHonorable Jared Littmann\, Mayor of Annapolis\n\n9:20 – 9:35 AM MEDA BUSINESS MEETING \n\nPresident’s Welcome – Tammi Thomas\nSecretary’s Report – Allison Akers\nMembership Report – Matt Miller\n\n9:35 – 10:45 AM MARYLAND BUSINESS LEADERSHIP REPORT \n\nModerator: Lori Valentine\, Vice President of Policy and Public Relations\, Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation\nMark Anthony Thomas\, President & CEO\, Greater Baltimore Committee\nMary Kane\, President/CEO\, Maryland Chamber of Commerce\nTheresa Kuhns\, Chief Executive Officer\, Maryland Municipal League\nJack McDougle\, President/CEO\, Greater Washington Board of Trade\nMichael Sanderson\, Executive Director\, Maryland Association of Counties \n\n10:45 – 11:00 AM BREAK \n11:00 AM – 12:00 PM MARYLAND LEGISLATIVE OUTLOOK \n\nModerator: Kellie S. Hinkle\, Deputy Director\, St. Mary’s County Department of Economic Development\nHonorable Bill Ferguson\, Senate President\nHonorable Joseline Pena-Melnyk\, Speaker of the House  \nHonorable Stephen Hershey Jr.\, Senate Minority Leader\nHonorable Jason Buckel\, House Minority Leader\n\n12:00 – 1:15 PM LUNCHEON & KEYNOTE \n\nIntroduction: Harry Coker Jr.\, Secretary\, Maryland Department of Commerce\nHonorable Aruna Miller\, Lieutenant Governor of Maryland\n\n1:15 – 1:30 PM CLOSING REMARKS \n  \n**Please note: MEDA does not sell attendee lists\, offer refunds for this event\, or permit walk-in registrations. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2026-meda-winter-conference/ LOCATION:Governor Calvert House\, 58 State Circle\, Annapolis\, MD\, 21401\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251030T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251030T140000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20250220T142514Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T131026Z UID:73574-1761811200-1761832800@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2025 MEDA Fall Conference DESCRIPTION:When: October 30\, 2025\, from 8 AM to 2 PM\nWhere: Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort in Chesapeake Beach\, MD\nTheme: Talent is the Driver: Building Communities Where People Want to Live and Work\nThe 2025 MEDA Fall Conference will bring together Maryland’s economic development community to discuss strategies for building talent-attracting communities. In today’s hyper-competitive economic landscape\, talent has emerged as a key differentiator in business location and expansion decisions. As demographics shift\, remote work reshapes expectations\, and workers increasingly prioritize quality of life alongside career opportunities\, economic developers must rethink their approach to community building. The communities that thrive in this new reality will be those that understand talent attraction isn’t just about jobs—it’s about creating places where people genuinely want to live\, work\, and raise families. \nClick here to view the Draft Minutes from the 2025 Summer Conference Business Meeting. \nClick here to read the guest blog. \nSponsor the 2025 MEDA Fall Conference\nClick here to view the sponsorship tiers. Please call 410-347-1246 or contact pamr@medamd.com to become a sponsor or to learn more! \nAgenda\n8:00 – 9:00 AM Registration and Continental Breakfast \n9:00 – 9:30 AM Welcome & MEDA Business Meeting \n\nTammi Thomas\, MEDA President\nJulie Oberg\, Director\, Calvert County Economic Development \nThe Honorable Earl F. “Buddy” Hance\, President\, Board of County Commissioners \nMary Lanham\, CEO\, Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort\nMatt Miller\, MEDA Membership Co-Chair\n\n9:30 – 10:15 AM Talent Attraction and Retention through Quality of Life: Why Place Is Everything! \nWest Virginia has lost more residents than any other state over the past 50 years—but that’s not where the story ends. In this keynote\, Danny Twilley shares how West Virginia took this challenge and created an opportunity by turning ideas into action. Through the Ascend WV initiative\, the state is embracing its greatest strengths—its people\, places\, and world-class outdoors—to attract new residents\, spark innovation\, and build lasting momentum. Learn how collaboration and adaptability are powering a “flywheel effect” of renewal—and what lessons other regions can take from West Virginia’s bold approach. \n\nDanny Twilley\, PhD\, Assistant VP of Economic & Community Development\, West Virginia University\n\n10:15 – 10:30 AM Break \n10:30 – 11:30 AM Building Vibrant Communities to Keep and Attract Talent \nThis panel explores how Maryland communities are transforming themselves into destinations where talent chooses to live and work. From community-building initiatives\, blending placemaking with connections to the outdoors\, and a holistic approach to community planning\, panelists will share strategies for creating vibrant\, engaged communities that attract and retain residents. \n\nModerator: Kari Snyder\, Director\, Community and Economic Development Partnerships\, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development\nDavid Ross\, President\, ARC Management\nMatt Miller\, Executive Director\, Cumberland Economic Development Corporation\nSusan Slinghuff Hartmann\, Executive Director\, College Park City-University Partnership\n\n11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Building The Foundations for a Thriving Workforce \nKeeping and attracting talent requires more than good jobs—it demands the infrastructure and support systems that make communities livable and accessible. This panel examines the foundational elements that enable workers to live\, commute\, and thrive in your community. Speakers will discuss transit-oriented development\, affordable housing solutions\, and childcare access—three critical pillars that directly impact workforce attraction and retention. \n\nModerator: Candace Dodson-Reed\, Chief of Staff\, MEDCO\nDarron Cooper\, Project Manager\, Office of Real Estate & Economic Development\, Maryland Department of Transportation\nRyan Trout\, Director of Housing & Community Development\, City of Rockville\nCindy Rozón\, Senior Director of Resident Services\, Affordable Homes & Communities\n\n12:30 – 1:45 PM Lunch & Global Talent\, Local Impact: Retaining International Students in Our Communities \nWhen developing talent strategies\, communities don’t have to look far—global talent is already on campus. Across the country\, economic development organizations are recognizing the international students studying at their universities as a key\, and often untapped\, source of talent. In this session\, Global Detroit explores how many are embracing international students to build stronger\, more inclusive economies. \n\nSloan Herrick\, Strategic Consultant\, Global Detroit’s E Pluribus Initiative\n\n1:45 – 2:00 PM Closing Remarks \nHotel\nClick here to book a room at the Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort for the nights of October 29 to November 1. The deadline to book is October 10\, 2025. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2025-meda-fall-conference/ LOCATION:Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort\, 4165 Mears Avenue\, Chesapeake Beach\, MD\, 20732 CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251007 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251009 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20250707T151509Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251218T163852Z UID:72917-1759795200-1759967999@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2025 Main Street Maryland Conference DESCRIPTION:When: October 7-8\, 2025\nWhere: Downtown Easton\, Maryland\nTheme: Great Places Win: Powering People\, Places\, and Possibility\nMaryland’s many Main Streets are the heart of our most vibrant and welcoming communities. The 2025 Main Street Maryland Conference\, organized by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and MEDA\, celebrated the people\, places\, and possibilities that make these historic downtowns thrive. This year\, the conference was held in Easton—one of Maryland’s first designated Main Streets—for two days of inspiration\, connection\, and community-building. \nCheck out the photo album from this year! \nAgenda\nView the draft agenda. \nPlease click here to view the speaker slides. \nSpeakers\nView the Speakers. \nSponsor the 2025 Main Street Maryland Conference\nClick here to view the tiered sponsorships (and/or to make a payment). Please call 410-347-1246 or contact pamr@medamd.com to become a sponsor or to learn more! \nHotel Information\nAttendees can book the following hotels at a special rate for the nights of October 6 to October 8: \n\nTidewater Inn for $145/night. Click here to book online and use code “mainstreet” or call 410-822-1300 and ask for the “Main Street Maryland” rate code. The booking deadline has passed\, but please contact the hotel to check if the rate is still available.\nHampton Inn Easton for $145/night. Click here to book online or call 410-819-6500 and use code “MMS“. The booking deadline has passed\, but please contact the hotel to check if the rate is still available.\nHummingbird Inn for $160/night. Click here to book online or call 410-822-0605 and use code “EDC100625“. The booking deadline has passed\, but please contact the hotel to check if the rate is still available.\nHoliday Inn Express for $129/night. Please click here to book online or call 410-819-6500 and use code “MSM“. The booking deadline has passed\, but please contact the hotel to check if the rate is still available.\nFairfield Inn & Suites Easton for $129/night. Please click here to book online or call 410-822-0050 and ask for the “MEDA Foundation” rate. The booking deadline has passed\, but please contact the hotel to check if the rate is still available.\n\n\n\n\nDownload the conference app\, \n\n\niOSAndroid\n\n\nFor feature details\, visit Whova URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2025-mainstreet-maryland-conference/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250730T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250730T121500 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20250220T142729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250730T153058Z UID:73576-1753866000-1753877700@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2025 MEDA Summer Conference DESCRIPTION:When: July 30\, 2025\, from 9 AM to 12:15 PM\nWhere: Virtual\nTheme: Thriving Through Uncertainty: Resiliency in Economic Development\nAs economic developers\, we’re navigating a landscape where unpredictability is the norm—from shifting labor force dynamics to sudden market disruptions and policy pivots. The 2025 MEDA Summer Conference will bring together thought leaders and practitioners to explore how we can build economic resiliency that goes beyond recovery and moves toward reinvention. \nAttendees will gain practical insights into strengthening workforce pipelines amid uncertainty\, fostering local adaptability through planning and partnerships\, and using scenario planning as a tool for community resilience. \nClick here to view the Draft Minutes from the 2025 MEDA Annual Conference Business Meeting. \nDraft Agenda\n9:00 – 9:25 AM Welcome and MEDA Business Meeting \n\nWelcome: Tammi Thomas\, MEDA President \nMEDA Business Meeting Minutes: Allison Akers\, MEDA Secretary \nMEDA New Members: Matt Miller\, MEDA Membership Co-Chair\n\n9:25 – 9:55 AM From Disruption to Recovery: Tools for Economic Resilience \nThis session will explore practical strategies to help communities recover and thrive after economic disruption. Drawing on national examples\, it will offer tools to build local resilience\, foster cross-sector collaboration\, and adapt quickly in the face of uncertainty—equipping economic developers to lead with confidence through crisis and change. \n\nDana Crater\, Director of Technical Assistance\, International Economic Development Council (IEDC)\n\n9:55 – 10:25 AM Resilience at Work: Empowering Jobseekers\, Strengthening Employers \nThis session explores how workforce development fuels economic resiliency—from supporting displaced federal workers to equipping job seekers to confidently translate their skills into new opportunities. By focusing on both individual empowerment and employer readiness\, this approach not only helps workers bounce back but also builds stronger\, more adaptable communities—critical for long-term economic vitality. \n\nSuja Joseph\, Director\, Statewide Reemployment Programs\, Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning\, Maryland Department of Labor \n\n10:25 – 10:35 AM Break \n10:35 – 11:05 AM Not just Response and Recovery – Economic Impact with a Better Community Resilience Toolkit \nWhen disasters strike\, economic development doesn’t pause—it pivots. In this session\, we’ll explore how Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) play a critical role not only in disaster response and recovery but also in preparedness and long-term resilience. Because the traditional toolkit is changing\, we will explore innovative solutions to mobilize capital towards projects that significantly reduce exposure to threats and hazards while increasing economic opportunities. This includes moving beyond grant dependency and conventional debt instruments to embrace investment strategies that prioritize economic development\, social impact\, and risk reduction\, laying the foundation for thriving\, future-ready communities. \n\nLarry Twele\, CEcD\, President and Founder\, Eastport Partners\nCamila Tapias\, Global Disaster Resilience Specialist\, SPIN Global\n\n11:05 – 11:35 AM  Vision in the Fog: Leading with Clarity Amid Uncertainty \nHow do you lead when the ground keeps shifting? This session explores how economic developers can craft and communicate a strong\, adaptable vision—even in the face of budget constraints\, workforce disruptions\, or shifting policies. Discover how communities are using data\, storytelling\, and inclusive engagement to define success\, anchor decision-making\, and build momentum toward a shared future—even when the destination isn’t fully in focus. \n\nKit Cramer\, CEO\, Asheville Chamber of Commerce \n\n11:35 – 12:05 PM Built\, Lost\, Rebuilt: Resilience in Real Life \nGreg Vetter\, founder of Tessemae’s and author of Undressed\, will share his powerful journey of building—and losing—a $300 million company\, offering economic developers a raw\, real-world perspective on professional resiliency. Through lessons in grit\, reinvention\, and leading with authenticity\, Greg will inspire attendees to navigate setbacks\, align values with action\, and bounce back stronger in the face of disruption. \n\nGreg Vetter\, Author & Entrepreneur \n\n12:05 – 12:15 PM Wrap-Up URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2025-meda-summer-conference/ LOCATION:VIRTUAL CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250427 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20250430 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20240508T125822Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T183331Z UID:65105-1745712000-1745971199@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2025 MEDA Annual Conference DESCRIPTION:When: April 27-29\, 2025\nWhere: Hyatt Regency\, Chesapeake Bay\, Cambridge\, Maryland\nTheme: Maryland’s North Star: Regions Coming Together\nThe 2025 MEDA Annual Conference explored collaboration across Maryland’s regions\, highlighted ways to strengthen regional partnerships\, leverage collective resources\, and develop innovative strategies that benefit the state as a whole. \nClick here to view the Draft Minutes from the 2025 Winter Conference Business Meeting. \nPresentation Slides\n\nOpening Keynote: Fran Weld\, Co-Founder\, Canopy Team\nClosing Keynote: Navigating Your Way to Regional Success: Julie Lenzer\, Chief Innovation Officer\, Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute (ARMI)\n\nProposed Slate of Officers\nClick here to view the proposed Slate of Officers for the 2025/2026 term. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/meda-2025-annual-conference/ LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay\, Cambridge\, MD\, 100 Heron Blvd\, US-50\, Cambridge\, MD\, 21613\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250109T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250109T133000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20240909T150741Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250811T145032Z UID:68793-1736409600-1736429400@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2025 MEDA Winter Conference DESCRIPTION:When: January 9\, 2025\, from 8 AM to 1:30 PM\nWhere: Governor Calvert House\, Annapolis\, MD\nTheme: 2025 Legislative Outlook For Economic Development\nThis event is sold out. Registration is required\, and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. If you’d like to be added to the waitlist\, please reach out to info@medamd.com \nAt the MEDA 2025 Winter Conference\, public and private sector leaders share their thoughts on economic development-related legislation that the Maryland General Assembly will consider during the 2025 session. \nClick here to view the Draft Minutes from the 2024 MEDA Fall Conference Business Meeting. \nHotel Information\nAttendees can book the following hotel at a special rate for the night of December 8 to December 9: \n\nUse code ‘CATER’ to book a discounted room at Historic Inns of Annapolis. Due to recent website issues\, we recommend that you call 410-263-2641 to make your reservation instead of booking online.\n\nSponsorship Opportunities \n \nAgenda\nClick here to view a downloadable version of the 2025 MEDA Winter Conference Agenda. \n8:00 – 9:00 AM REGISTRATION AND CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST \n9:00 – 9:20 AM WELCOME TO ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY AND ANNAPOLIS \n\nIntroduction: Amy Gowan\, CEO\, Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation\nHonorable Steuart Pittman\, Anne Arundel County Executive\nHonorable Gavin Buckley\, Mayor of Annapolis\n\n9:20 – 9:35 AM MEDA BUSINESS MEETING \n\nPresident’s Welcome – Richard Griffin\, AICP\, CEcD\nSecretary’s Report – Kelly Robertson-Slagle\nMembership Report – Denise Beaver\, CEcD\, and Ebony Stocks\, CEcD\n\n9:35 – 10:45 AM MARYLAND BUSINESS LEADERSHIP REPORT \n\nModerator: Tiffany Harvey\, Principal\, Cornerstone Government Affairs\nLakey Boyd\, CEcD\, Chief Economic Officer\, Greater Baltimore Committee\nMary Kane\, President/CEO\, Maryland Chamber of Commerce\nTheresa Kuhns\, Chief Executive Officer\, Maryland Municipal League\nJack McDougle\, President/CEO\, Greater Washington Board of Trade\nKevin Kinnally\, Legislative Director\, Maryland Association of Counties\n\n10:45 – 11:00 AM BREAK \n11:00 AM – 11:05 AM PUBLIC POLICY AWARENESS COMMITTEE UPDATE \n11:05 AM – 12:00 PM MARYLAND LEGISLATIVE OUTLOOK \n\nModerator: Tammi Thomas\, Chief Development and Marketing Officer\, TEDCO\nHonorable Malcolm Augustine\, President Pro Tem\nHonorable David Moon\, House Majority Leader\nHonorable Jason Buckel\, House Minority Leader\nHonorable Stephen Hershey\, Jr.\, Senate Minority Leader\n\n12:00 – 1:15 PM LUNCHEON & KEYNOTE \n\nIntroduction Remarks: Tom Sadowski\, Executive Director\, MEDCO\nClosing Speaker: Secretary Kevin Anderson\, Maryland Department of Commerce\n\n1:15 – 1:30 PM CLOSING REMARKS \n**MEDA does not sell attendee lists. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2025-meda-winter-conference/ LOCATION:Governor Calvert House\, 58 State Circle\, Annapolis\, MD\, 21401\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241028T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241028T134500 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20240729T141606Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250110T135153Z UID:67598-1730102400-1730123100@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2024 MEDA Fall Conference DESCRIPTION:When: October 28\, 2024\, from 8:00 AM to 1:45 PM\nWhere: Baltimore Museum of Industry \nTheme: The Economy is International\nThe 2024 MEDA Fall Conference: The Economy is International will examine how international business growth can enhance domestic economic development. Attendees will dive into innovative strategies for global business recruitment\, attracting foreign investment\, and capitalizing on regional assets that drive economic growth. This conference will also provide valuable insights into export assistance and market expansion\, highlighting how businesses can navigate new markets\, leverage government support\, and utilize trade zones to enhance their global reach.  \nClick here to view the Draft Minutes from the 2024 MEDA Summer Conference Business Meeting. \nSponsor the 2024 MEDA Fall Conference\nClick here to see the sponsor levels and opportunities for the MEDA Fall Conference \nDraft Agenda\n8:00 – 8:45 Registration and Continental Breakfast \n8:45 – 9:00 AM MEDA Business Meeting \n\nRichard Griffin\, CEcD\, MEDA President\nKelly Robertson-Slagle\, MEDA Secretary\nDenise Beaver\, CEcD\, MEDA Membership Co-Chairs\n\n9:00 – 9:30 AM Welcome: Setting the Stage \n\nHonorable Kevin Anderson\, Secretary\, Maryland Department of Commerce\nJessica Reynolds\, CEcD\, Maryland Department of Commerce\n\n9:30 – 10:00 AM Morning Keynote  \nSelectUSA’s Executive Director\, Jasjit Singh\, will provide insight into how economic developers can harness international opportunities to drive regional growth. He will explore key global FDI trends shaping the U.S. economy\, strategies for attracting foreign investment to the United States\, and how local businesses can leverage from SelectUSA’s investment services across the federal government and through the U.S. Commercial Service network in more than 75 international markets. \n\nJasjit Singh\, Executive Director\, SelectUSA\n\n10:00 – 10:15 AM Break \n10:15 – 11:15 AM Panel: Investment \nThis panel will explore the critical role foreign investment plays at various levels of Maryland’s economy and the importance of economic development in attracting international businesses to the state. Panelists will discuss the strategies and benefits of bringing foreign companies to Maryland\, including the positive impacts on job creation\, innovation\, and local growth. Attendees will learn how economic development efforts can enhance the state’s global competitiveness and contribute to long-term economic prosperity. \n\nModerator: Lori Valentine\, Vice President of Policy and Public Relations\, Prince George’s Economic Development Corporation\nKehinde Ayanleye\, CEO\, DDLabs\nYossi Appleboum\, CEO and Co-Founder\, Sepio Cyber\nKarla Smith\, Human Resources Manager\, Intellian Tech\n\n11:15 AM – 12:15 PM Panel: Expansion \nIn today’s dynamic business environment\, creative strategies are essential for fostering growth and sustainability. This panel will discuss innovative ways to leverage business retention and expansion (BRE) programs\, ensuring companies understand and maximize their benefits. We will explore how exporting can play a key role in expansion strategies\, offering businesses new opportunities to thrive in global markets. Panelists will discuss how tapping into existing trade programs and resources can help companies scale internationally as part of their growth strategy. Join us to learn practical insights and actionable solutions for driving local business success globally. \n\nModerator: Nicholas Staigerwald\nStephen Sullivan\, Senior International Trade Specialist\, U.S. Small Business Administration\nWill Cawthern\, Director of Foreign-Trade Zone #74\, Baltimore Development Corporation\nMatthew Lippmann\, President\, Fluoron\nRobert Mullen\, Director of Sales\, Specialized Communications Corporation\n\n12:15 – 1:00 PM Lunch \n1:00 – 1:30 PM Fireside Chat  \n\nEddie Resende\, CEO\, World Trade Center Institute (WTCI)\nRichard Griffin\, CEcD\, MEDA President\n\n1:30 – 1:45 PM Closing Remarks \n1:45 – 2:30 PM Tour of the Baltimore Museum of Industry (Optional) \nHotel Information\nAttendees can book the following hotels at a special rate for the night of October 27 to October 28: \n\nCourtyard Baltimore Downtown/McHenry Row for $149–$159/night\, please click here to book online. The last day to book is Wednesday\, October 9\, 2024. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2024-meda-fall-conference/ LOCATION:Baltimore Museum of Industry\, 1415 Key Hwy\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21230\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20231025T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20231025T160000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20230626T190835Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231031T151555Z UID:56680-1698220800-1698249600@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2023 MEDA Fall Conference DESCRIPTION:Innovations in Manufacturing\nWednesday\, October 25\, 2023 from 8 AM – 4 PM\nAntrim 1844 in Taneytown\, MD (Carroll County)\nThe 2023 MEDA Fall Conference\, held on October 25th at Antrim 1844 in Taneytown\, located in Carroll County\, MD\, successfully concluded with a focus on “Innovations in Manufacturing.” The event kicked off with a warm welcome from MEDA President Richard Griffin\, CEcD\, Denise Beaver\, CEcD\, Ed Rothstein\, President of the Board of County Commissioners\, Jay Meashey\, Director of Economic Development for the Town of Taneytown\, and Mayor Christopher Miller of Taneytown followed by the MEDA Business Meeting. A highlight was the keynote address by Kevin Atticks\, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Agriculture\, who spoke about the vital role of ag-technology and value-added agriculture in Maryland’s manufacturing sector. The conference also featured insightful sessions like “Manufacturing Myths in Maryland 2023” by Susan Chambers and a diverse panel discussion titled “Let’s Talk Talent\,” moderated by Latrice Lewis. \nThe second half of the conference continued with engaging discussions and insights. A fireside chat with Philip Tulkoff and Thereasa Black delved into the significance of food-based manufacturing. Post-lunch\, attendees heard Maureen Donohue Krauss’s keynote on the Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) and its potential model for Maryland’s economic development. The event wrapped up with closing remarks by MEDA President Richard Griffin\, CEcD\, and a tour of Taneytown\, highlighting its growth and manufacturing achievements. Overall\, the conference provided valuable perspectives and strategies to support and nurture Maryland’s robust manufacturing industry. \nClick here to view photos from the 2023 Fall Conference \nClick here to view the Draft Summer Conference Meeting Minutes \nClick here to view the 2023 MEDA Fall Conference Agenda URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2023-meda-fall-conference/ LOCATION:Antrim 1844\, 30 Trevanion Road\, Taneytown\, MD\, 21787\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development,Economic Development Week,Education END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20231023 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20231028 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20230208T185243Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231101T133359Z UID:53086-1698019200-1698451199@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2023 Economic Development Week in Maryland DESCRIPTION:October 23-27\, 2023\n\nOverview\nEconomic Development Week in Maryland will emphasize the importance of economic development for the State of Maryland. The week is designed to increase understanding of economic development’s contribution to the state’s business climate\, job retention and growth\, the tax base\, and the overall quality of life in Maryland. \nRecognition\nEconomic development will take center stage in counties\, cities\, and towns throughout Maryland when proclamations are made heralding the significant projects that have made Maryland a great place to live\, work\, and play. Recognizing the dedicated work of economic developers is a primary focus of the effort. Listed below are the activities planned during Economic Development Week in Maryland (check back for weekly updates to this list). \nHow to Celebrate Economic Development Week in Maryland\nPlease check out our Toolkit\, Proclamation Template\, and Press Release Template to plan for your participation in Economic Development Week in Maryland. Whether elaborate or small\, there is something for every level of participation. \nSponsorship\nJoin us in making this event a success! If you’re interested in sponsoring Economic Development Week in Maryland\, please click here. \n         \nProclamations\n\nOffice of the Governor Wes Moore\nMaryland Department of Commerce\nCity of Aberdeen\nAllegany County\nAnne Arundel County\nTown of Bel Air\nCarroll County\nCharles County\nCity of Crisfield\nDorchester County\nFrederick County\nFSC First\nGarrett County\nCity of Hagerstown\nHarford County\nHoward County\nKent County\nPocomoke Revitalization\nPrince George’s County\nCity of Rockville\nTEDCO\nWashington County\nWorcester County\n\nPlease do not mail proclamations to the MEDA P.O. box. Email them to info@medamd.com. — Thank you! \nSpecial Events\n\nSIGNATURE EVENT: MEDA FALL CONFERENCE: INNOVATIONS IN MANUFACTURING\, October 25\, 2023\nAnne Arundel County Economic Development Corporation’s Business Appreciation Week\, October 23-27\nCaroline County Economic Development  & Tourism “Thank You! Campaign\,” October 23-27\nFSC First’s Building Your Growth Team and Experts Roundtable\, October 26 from 5:30 PM – 7 PM\nGarrett County Business Ribbon Cuttings\, October 24-27\nHarford Award Celebration\, October 24 from 5 PM – 8 PM\nHoward County Economic Development Authority’s Business Appreciation Week\, October 23-27\nHoward County Economic Development Authority’s Open House\, October 26 from 9:00 AM – 12 PM\nMontgomery County Black Collective’s Business Growth and Resources Events\, October 23-27\nMontgomery County Black Collective’s 2024 Business Growth Roadmap: Growth Strategies from Industry Experts\, October 26 from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM\nMontgomery County Black Collective’s Truist Bank Financial and Small Business Lending Clinic\, October 27 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM\nMontgomery County Economic Development Corporation Site Visits and Business Proclamations\, October 23-27\nProtecting Maryland Agriculture: Smart Farming Cybersecurity Challenges & Solutions\, October 25 from 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM\nQueen Anne’s County Supporting Local Business Visits\, October 23-27\nSt. Mary’s County’s Young Professionals @ Xella Winery and Vineyard\, October 23 from 5 PM to 7 PM\nSt. Mary’s County’s State of the County Luncheon\, October 24 from 11:30 AM  to 1:30 PM\nSt. Mary’s County’s Business After Hours\, October 25 from 5 Pm to 6:30 PM\nSt. Mary’s County’s Lexington Park Facade Grant Workshop\, October 26 from 8:00 AM  to 9:30 AM\nSt. Mary’s County’s Celebrating St. Mary’s Businesses\, October 27\nWashington County Economic Development Week Scavenger Hunt/Trivia\, October 23-27\nWorcester County Tourism and Economic Development Business Visits\, October 23-27\nWorcester County Tourism and Economic Development’s Economic Development Week Interview with Ocean 98.1\, October 23\nWorcester County Tourism and Economic Development’s Open House\, October 24 from 4 PM – 6 PM\n\nCheck back often for more events! Hosting an event during Economic Development Week? Let us know at info@medamd.com\, and we’ll post it here. \nRead About Economic Development Week in Maryland\nMedia: Here’s Where Tech Fits into Maryland’s Economic Development Week \nMedia: Celebrate Maryland Economic Development Week! \nSponsor Spotlight: Rockville Economic Development\, Inc. Showcases Four Businesses in Honor of Economic Development Week in Maryland \nBlog:  Economic Development Transforms Lives Through Teamwork  \nBlog:  Supporting Businesses Supports our Communities \nBlog: Why Celebrate Economic Development? \nBlog: Women in Economic Development \nClick the links below to learn about previous Economic Development Week in Maryland activities\n\n2022\n2021\n2020\n2019\n2018\n2017\n2016\n2015\n2013\n2012\n2011\n\n  URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2023-economic-development-week-in-maryland/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development,Economic Development Week,Education,Networking,Professional Development END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230726T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230726T121500 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20230221T173815Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230728T193808Z UID:53644-1690362000-1690373700@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2023 MEDA Summer Conference DESCRIPTION:Thank you to everyone who attended the 2023 MEDA Summer Conference on Leadership Development in economic development organizations (EDOs)! The conference brought together an exceptional lineup of experienced speakers who shared their expertise through dynamic and engaging TED Talk-style presentations\, including presentations from: \n\nJessica Aiello\, Founder and CEO of Yellow Group\, presented “Inclusion Means All”\nShannon Bahrke Happe\, CEO of Team Empower Hour\, presented “Bringing the Olympic Athlete Mindset to Your EDO”\nCaitlin Cain\, Vice President of LISC and Director of Rural LISC presented “Best Practices for Leading a Rural EDO” (click here for presentation slides)\nTrayce McDaniel\, President of TIP Strategies\, presented “Leading the Way: Becoming an Inclusionary Economic Development Leader” (click here for presentation slides)\nLyneir Richardson\, CEO of Chicago TREND Corporation\, presented “Leadership By Doing … Urban and Inclusive Economic Development” (click here for presentation slides)\n\nThank you to our decorated speakers for sharing their insights\, skills\, and tactics for successful leadership development within EDOs. \n Click here to view the draft minutes from the April Business Meeting. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2023-meda-summer-conference/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230423T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230425T120000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20221219T160651Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230517T191854Z UID:51806-1682251200-1682424000@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2023 MEDA Annual Conference DESCRIPTION:Harnessing Education for Economic Development is the 2023 MEDA Annual Conference theme and a clear pathway forward. The link between education and economic advancement is well-established. Building competencies profoundly impacts outcomes\, but connecting the dots is a collaborative process. \n  \n \n \n \n  \n  \n  \n  \n \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \nClick here to learn how to support the MEDA Silent Auction \nClick here to view the Draft 2023 Winter Conference Business Meeting Minutes \nClick here to view the 2023-2024 Proposed Slate of Officers \n  \nCONFERENCE RECAP / SPEAKER SIDES \nFrom start to finish\, the 2023 MEDA Annual Conference was a wonderful time! We had record-breaking attendance and enjoyed three days of insightful discussions and camaraderie with Maryland’s leaders in economic development. From our entire team\, we thank everyone who attended — we loved sharing the conference with you! Here are just a few of the highlights from the Annual Conference. \nOn Sunday\, we welcomed Annual Conference attendees to Cambridge! Some attendees enjoyed an afternoon on the golf course for the MEDA Annual Golf Tournament\, while others took part in a tour of downtown Cambridge. We wrapped up the day with the Welcome to the Eastern Shore Networking Dinner\, featuring remarks from Maryland State Delegate Tim Hutchinson and MEDA Past President Danny Thompson. \nMonday\, we began the morning with breakfast and our Annual Membership Meeting before electing and swearing in our new Board of Directors for 2023-2024. Next\, we enjoyed keynote remarks from renowned Maryland economist Anirban Basu\, Arena Analytics CEO Myra Norton\, and five inspiring IGNITE presentations. Click here for Anirban Basu’s slides. \nDuring lunch\, Maryland Secretaries held an insightful panel discussion about their plans and priorities. We learned about exciting happenings in workforce development during the “Innovative Workforce Development Programs Supporting K-12 through Higher Education and Beyond” panel. \nTo round out the evening\, Governor Wes Moore participated in an inspiring fireside chat with TEDCO Chief Development & Marketing Officer Tammi Thomas\, in which he shared his vision for the State of Maryland. We ended Monday by celebrating the winners of the 2023 MEDA Awards. \nOn Tuesday\, our final day of the conference\, we started with an inspiring keynote speech from Dr. David Kwabena Wilson of Morgan State University\, who spoke on economic development and the future of work. Next\, two engaging panels on “Communities of Innovation” and “Communities of Collaboration” highlighted the intersection of education and economic prosperity\, the importance of innovation and collaboration in building strong\, resilient communities\, and how the panelists achieved success with their initiatives. The MEDA Young Leaders tour at the Eastern Shore Innovation Center\, featuring remarks from DHCD Secretary Jake Day\, concluded the day. \nTake a look at more pictures from the Annual Conference on our Flickr page. Stay tuned for details on other upcoming MEDA events\, and we look forward to seeing you at the 2024 MEDA Annual Conference! \n  \n  URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2023-meda-annual-conference/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230112T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230112T130000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20221014T212340Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230112T031047Z UID:50427-1673510400-1673528400@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2023 MEDA Winter Conference DESCRIPTION:2023 LEGISLATIVE OUTLOOK FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT\nSponsored by: \nMaryland Department of Commerce\nMaryland Department of Housing and Community Development\nAnne Arundel Economic Development Corporation\nCity of Annapolis Economic Development\nManis Canning & Associates\nThe Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay\nThe Project Resource Group’s Maryland With Pride\nPublic and private sector leaders share their thoughts on economic development-related legislation that will be considered by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2023 session. \n8:00 – 9:00 am REGISTRATION\, CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST AND NETWORKING\n9:00 – 9:05 am WELCOME TO WINTER CONFERENCE \n\nDanny Thompson\, MEDA President\n\n9:05 – 9:30 am WELCOME FROM ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY & ANNAPOLIS \n\nIntroduction: Jill Seamon\, President/CEO\, Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation\n\nHonorable Steuart Pittman\, Anne Arundel County Executive\n\n\nIntroduction: Stephen Rice\, Economic Development Manager\, City of Annapolis\n\nHonorable Gavin Buckley\, Mayor of Annapolis\n\n\n\n9:30 – 9:45 am MEDA BUSINESS MEETING \n\nPresident’s Welcome – Danny Thompson\nSecretary’s Report – Tammi Thomas\nMembership Report –Denise Beaver\n\n9:45 – 10:45 am MARYLAND BUSINESS LEADERSHIP REPORT \n\nModerator: Tiffany Harvey\, Vice President\, Government & Regulatory Affairs for\nMaryland and Delaware\, Comcast\nMark Anthony Thomas\, President/Chief Executive Officer\, Greater Baltimore Committee\nMary Kane\, President and Chief Executive Officer\, Maryland Chamber of Commerce\nMichael Sanderson\, Executive Director\, Maryland Association of Counties\nJack McDougle\, President and Chief Executive Officer\, Greater Washington Board of Trade\n\n10:45–11:00 am BREAK\n11:00–12:00 pm MARYLAND LEGISLATIVE OUTLOOK \n\nModerator: Josh Kurtz\, Founding Editor\, Maryland Matters\nHonorable Malcolm L. Augustine\, Senate President Pro Tem\nHonorable Vanessa E. Atterbeary\, Chair\, Ways and Means Committee\nHonorable Stephen S. Hershey\, Jr.\, Senate Minority Leader\nHonorable Jason C. Buckel\, House Minority Leader\n\n12:00–1:00 pm LUNCHEON AND KEYNOTE ADDRESS \n\nLieutenant Governor-Elect\, Aruna Miller\n\nClick here to view the MEDA Fall Business Meeting Minutes.  \nPARKING: Please consider your parking options prior to arrival on the 12th.  To assist\, this link provides a look at where the parking spaces are in Annapolis.  Keep in mind the hotel is also encouraging customers to use the Naval Academy stadium parking lot to take advantage of the Annapolis shuttle. \n  URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2023-meda-winter-conference/ LOCATION:Governor Calvert House\, 58 State Circle\, Annapolis\, MD\, 21401\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221207T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221207T133000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20221014T211808Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221205T224733Z UID:50422-1670400000-1670419800@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 Rural Economic Development Session DESCRIPTION:Join the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) for the\n2022 Rural Economic Development Session – Lower Shore Edition\nDecember 7\, 2022\n8:00am – 1:30pm\nStudent Services Center\, University of Maryland Eastern Shore \nEvery community has a unique vibe with distinct commercial centers designed\, organized\, and promoted to create a sense of livability. Economic developers are charged with identifying and enhancing those unique features to help the community attract new businesses to locate and grow there. But how do you assess your community\, strategically plan\, and attract the right balance of business\, workforce\, entertainment\, and services to meet your community’s needs? \nJoin us as we discuss how the region can leverage K-12 education\, higher education\, and talent assets to achieve maximum economic impact regarding workforce\, tax base\, and jobs. \nThis invitation is extended to MEDA members\, elected and appointed officials or one representative and is non-transferable. \nParking: Lot S (walk across the bridge to the Student Services Center). Click here for a campus map. \n  \nDRAFT AGENDA \n8:00 AM    Continental Breakfast\n8:30 AM    Welcome Remarks   \nDanny Thompson\, Director\, Somerset County Economic Development Commission  \nDr. Heidi Anderson\, President  University of Maryland Eastern Shore \nThe Honorable Mary Beth Carozza\, State Senator \n8:45 AM    PNC Bank Welcome  \nFranklin N. McNeil\, Jr.\, Vice President\, Community Consultant\, Community Development Banking \n9:00-9:30    Opening Keynote: Blueprint for Maryland’s Future \nKirkland Murray\, President and CEO\, Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation \n9:30-10:15    Our Future Workforce: College & Career Readiness  (Apprenticeships) \n\nModerator: David Ryan\, Salisbury-Wicomico Economic Development Corporation\n\n\n\n\nSteve McGee\, Chesapeake Shipbuilding \n​​Chris Eccleston\, Delmarva Veteran Builders\nMitzi Scott\, Tidal Health\nMaria Waller\, President\, Quality Staffing Services\n\n\n\n10:15 – 10:30    BREAK \n10:30- 11:15     Partnerships for Success: Community Schools  \n\nModerator: Danny Thompson\, Executive Director\, Somerset County Economic Development Commission \n\nDiane L. Stulz\, CTE and Blended Learning Facilitator\, Worcester County Public Schools – \nKaren L. Olmstead\, Ph.D.\, Provost and Senior VP of Academic Affairs\, Salisbury University \nDr. Theresa Queenan\, University of Maryland Eastern Shore \nLori Smoot\, Director of Career and Testing Services\, Wor-Wic Community College\n\n\n\n11:15 – 11:30     BREAK \n11:30 – 12:15    Investment in Equity: Local Services Panel  \n\nModerator: Melanie Pursel\, Director\, Worcester County Office of Tourism & Economic Development\n\nDion Banks\, Eastern Shore Network for Change \nKisha Petticolas\, Eastern Shore Network for Change \nShawna N. Kearsley\, Vehicles for Change \n\n\n\n12:15 – 1:00    LUNCH \n1:00 – 1:15    The Future of Higher Education – Maryland Higher Education Commission URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-rural-economic-development-session/ LOCATION:University of Maryland Eastern Shore CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221027T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221027T190000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20221017T223449Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221017T223539Z UID:50473-1666857600-1666897200@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:MCCEI Symposium: Solving the Workforce Development Puzzle DESCRIPTION:The construction industry has been struggling to meet workforce demands for over a decade\, and since the pandemic\, it has only gotten worse. There are steps employers can take to overcome this and meet their hiring needs. We’ll hear from experts in our field\, and other industries\, on how they are setting their firms apart\, attracting and retaining talent\, and leading the industry into the future. Join us in-person on October 27th in a celebration of the amazing work being done in Maryland to promote career pathways in the built environment. \nSolving the Workforce Development Puzzle will consist of roundtable discussions\, a keynote speaker\, and a networking and cocktail hour. \nThe Pathway Awards were created to recognize all the people\, companies\, and partners in the AEC industry who embody the values of MCCEI and who have championed workforce development initiatives in the built environment in the past year. We will also award six student scholarships to young people pursuing careers in the built environment. \nTentative Agenda \n8:00-9:00 Networking Breakfast \n9:00-9:30 MCCEI Welcome \n9:30-10:30 Mental Health in Construction \n10:45-11:45 Investing in the Future Workforce \n12:00-1:00 Keynote Lunch \n1:15-2:15 How to Capitalize on Construction Innovation in Recruitment \n2:30-3:30 DEI: More than a Buzzword \n3:30-5:00 Networking & Cocktail Hour \n5:00-7:00 Pathway Awards \nBuilding Map: https://stamp.umd.edu/about_us/directions_stamp/building_map URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/mccei-symposium/ LOCATION:University of Maryland – College Park\, Adele H. Stamp Student Union (Colony Ballroom) 3972 Campus Drive\, College Park\, MD\, 20742\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development,Economic Development Week END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221027T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221027T163000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220817T170241Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220817T170259Z UID:49419-1666855800-1666888200@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:Tech at the Gap: Unlocking Potential DESCRIPTION:Join us for our 6th annual Tech at the Gap conference at Rocky Gap Casino Resort! \n\n\nAbout this event\n\n\n\nTech at the Gap is a one-day conference for web developers\, digital marketing professionals\, network and security specialists\, managers\, and anyone else who works in the tech industry. \nEmerge from the countless setbacks of the pandemic and unlock your full potential by learning from engaging and informative speakers from all across the country. Connect with other professionals as you learn about the latest concepts and tools in the industry and how you can apply them with your company. \nArrive on Wednesday evening\, October 26\, 2022\, and attend our complimentary Welcome Networking session (appetizers and cash bar) hosted by the Mountain Maryland Tech Network from 6-8pm and network with conference attendees\, presenters and sponsors. Visit our event website for full conference schedule\, accommodation options\, and presentation information. \nNow in its sixth installment\, Tech at the Gap is presented by The Western Maryland IT Center of Excellence. The Center is funded in part by the State of Maryland’s EARN Maryland Grant Program\, administered by the Maryland Department of Labor\, Licensing\, and Regulation. EARN Maryland focuses on industry-led partnerships to bridge Maryland’s skills gap and drive growth. \nInfo and registration here.  URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/tech-at-the-gap-unlocking-potential/ LOCATION:Rocky Gap Casino & Resort\, 16701 Lakeview Road\, Flintstone\, MD\, 21530\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221026T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221026T200000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220929T225047Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220929T225104Z UID:50139-1666807200-1666814400@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:MMTN Welcome Reception @ Tech at the Gap '22 DESCRIPTION:Mountain Maryland Tech Network members are exclusively invited to Tech at the Gap’s Pre-Conference Welcome Session! \nAbout this event\n\n\n\n\nMountain Maryland Tech Network members are exclusively invited to Tech at the Gap’s Pre-Conference Welcome Session! Join us on Wednesday\, October 26 from 6:00-8:00 pm on the outdoor patio space (weather permitting) near the Conference Center at Rocky Gap Casino Resort. \nIn partnership with MEDA\, and in celebration of Maryland’s Economic Development Week\, this event is also open to all MEDA Young Leaders. The MEDA Young Leaders Group connects young economic development professionals as they grow in their careers. This group is open to economic developers under the age of 40 who are looking for collaboration opportunities and chances to network. \nEnjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar while networking with conference attendees and some of the conference presenters and sponsors. Enjoy live acoustic music and win great giveaways! (Tech at the Gap ticket NOT required for this event.) This event is sponsored by the Maryland Department of Commerce. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/mmtn-welcome-reception-tech-at-the-gap-22-tickets-422466457547 URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/mmtn-welcome-reception-tech-at-the-gap-22/ LOCATION:Rocky Gap Casino & Resort\, 16701 Lakeview Road\, Flintstone\, MD\, 21530\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development Week END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221025T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221025T140000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220809T193310Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221019T221022Z UID:49278-1666688400-1666706400@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 MEDA Fall Conference DESCRIPTION:2022 MEDA Fall Conference\nOctober 25\, 2022\n9:00 am – 2:00 pm \nMaryland Innovation Center (MIC) \n6751 Columbia Gateway Dr\nColumbia\, 21046 \nMEDA invites you to attend the 2022 MEDA Fall Conference on October 25\, in-person at the Maryland Innovation Center in Howard County. This conference is the signature event for Economic Development Week in Maryland\, happening October 24-28. (Please visit the Economic Development Week in Maryland page for participation information and a calendar of events.) \nSpeakers and panelists will be discussing the Fall Conference theme: Cybersecurity Strategies for Success. \nCybersecurity is a necessity for all businesses in today’s technology-driven world. Without strategic processes and systems for protection\, there is no defense against cyber attacks\, leaving private and sensitive data vulnerable to threats with serious and potentially devastating consequences for businesses involved. The goal of this conference is to inform\, discuss\, and explore the most current cybersecurity strategies\, principles\, and practices for businesses throughout Maryland (and beyond). \nJoin MEDA for this special event and be a part of the conversations around this important topic! Seating is limited — register below today! \n \nView the Agenda for the 2022 MEDA Fall Conference \nClick here to download the 2022 MEDA Summer Conference Business Meeting Minutes URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-meda-fall-conference/ LOCATION:Maryland Innovation Center\, 6751 Columbia Gateway Dr\, Columbia\, Maryland\, 21046 CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development,Economic Development Week,Education END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221024 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221029 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220222T190211Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221104T145711Z UID:44658-1666569600-1667001599@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 Economic Development Week in Maryland DESCRIPTION:Save the Date:  October 24-28\, 2022  \n\nOverview\nEconomic Development Week in Maryland will emphasize the importance of economic development for the State of Maryland. The week is designed to increase understanding of economic development’s contribution to the state’s business climate\, job retention and growth\, the tax base\, and the overall quality of life in Maryland. \nRecognition\nEconomic development will take center stage in counties\, cities\, and towns throughout Maryland when proclamations are made heralding the significant projects that have made Maryland a great place to live\, work\, and play. Recognizing the dedicated work of economic developers is a primary focus of the effort. Listed below are the activities planned during Economic Development Week in Maryland (check back for weekly updates to this list). \nRead About Economic Development Week in Maryland\n**Blog:  Economic Development Transforms Lives Through Teamwork  \n**Blog:  Supporting Businesses Supports our Communities \n**Blog: Why Celebrate Economic Development? \n**Blog: Women in Economic Development \nHow to Celebrate Economic Development Week in Maryland\nPlease check out our Toolkit\, Proclamation Template\, and Press Release Template  (<< click these links) to plan for your participation in Economic Development Week in Maryland. Whether elaborate or small\, there is something for every level of participation. \n\n \n \n \n \n Toolkit\n \n \n \n \n \n Proclamation Template\n \n \n \n \n \n Press Release Template\n \n \n\nSponsorship\nJoin us in making this event a success! If you’re interested in sponsoring Economic Development Week in Maryland\, please click here. \n         \nMedia Coverage\nOp Ed:  Economic Development: Worth the Investment \nPress Release: MEDA Celebrates Economic Development Week in Maryland October 24 – 28 \nProclamations\nPlease do not mail proclamations to the MEDA P.O. box. Email them to info@medamd.com. — Thank you! \nTake a look at photos sent in of organizations with their proclamations: \nClick to view photos\n  \nState of Maryland \n******************* \nAllegany County Department of Economic and Community Development \nAnne Arundel Economic Development Corporation \nCecil County Office of Economic Development \nCharles County Department of Economic Development \nCity of Aberdeen \nCity of Frederick \nCity of Greenbelt \nCity of Hagerstown \nCity of Hyattsville \nCity of Rockville \nFrederick County Office of Economic Development \nGarrett County Department of Business Development \nHarford County Office of Economic Development \nHoward County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) \nKent County Department of Economic Development \nPrince George’s County Economic Development Corporation \nQueen Anne’s County Economic & Tourism Development \nSalisbury Wicomico Economic Development \nSt. Mary’s Department of Economic Development \nTalbot County Economic Development and Tourism \nTEDCO \nTown of Bel Air \nTown of Princess Anne \nWorcester County Economic Development  \nSpecial Events\nCheck back often for more events! Hosting an event during Economic Development Week? Let us know at info@medamd.com and we’ll post it here. \nFEATURED EVENT:  October 25\, 2022  MEDA Fall Conference on Cybersecurity Strategies for Success \nOctober 21\, 2022  Strengthening the Emerging Workforce: A Career Technology Tour & Business Luncheon at Chesapeake College \nOctober 24-28\, 2022: Frederick County Business Appreciation Week \nOctober 25\, 2022  Free Small Business Digital Marketing Workshop \nOctober 25\, 2022  Salisbury Wicomico Economic Development 54th Annual Meeting and Mixer \nOctober 26\, 2022  Disruption! The Power of DEIB Strategies \nOctober 26\, 2022  Maryland’s Coast Mixer \nOctober 26\, 2022  MMTN Welcome Reception @ Tech at the Gap ’22 \nOctober 27\, 2022  MCCEI Symposium: Solving the Workforce Development Puzzle \nOctober 27\, 2022  Security Awareness 101 \nOctober 27\, 2022  Tech at the Gap: Unlocking Potential \nOctober 28\, 2022  Family Fun Night at The Grove \nOctober 28\, 2022  Grants for Organizations – Call for Panelists (deadline) \nNovember 1\, 2022  Charles County Fall Meeting– Staying Power: Helping Existing Businesses Thrive and Grow \nClick the links below to learn about previous Economic Development Week in Maryland activities\n\n2021\n2020\n2019\n2018\n2017\n2016\n2015\n2014\n2013\n2012\n2011 URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-edw/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development,Economic Development Week,Education,Networking,Professional Development END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221018 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221019 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220929T224558Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220929T224559Z UID:50137-1666051200-1666137599@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:Latino Business & Entrepreneurship Summit 2022 - The Aspen Institute DESCRIPTION:The Aspen Latino Business & Entrepreneurship Summit brings together high-level Latino and Non-Latino cross-sector leaders at the national and local levels to uplift policies\, practices\, and programs supporting Latino business owners and entrepreneurs. \nRepresenting total economic output of $2.7 trillion in 2019 and the fastest-growing segment of U.S. small businesses\, Latinos are setting the stage to reimagine the U.S. economy with their hiring and buying power\, labor force participation\, and other key economic indicators. Nevertheless\, it remains an urgent priority for U.S. policymakers\, innovators\, investors\, and business\, philanthropic and civic leaders to collectively address the myriad systemic inequities that have unjustly capped the potential of the Latinos\, especially in the business community. We will also identify actions to help Latino businesses thrive in this changing economy. \nThe second annual event will feature in-person keynotes and panels hosted at the Park Hyatt\, as well as interactive breakout sessions to workshop solutions around key topics. \nhttps://www.aspeninstitute.org/events/latino-business-entrepreneurship-summit-2022/ URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/latino-business-entrepreneurship-summit-2022-the-aspen-institute/ LOCATION:VIRTUAL CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221009 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221012 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220922T190958Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220922T191000Z UID:49990-1665273600-1665532799@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:Maryland Municipal League (MML) Fall Conference DESCRIPTION:MML Fall Conference\nOctober 9-11\, 2022 \nThis will be an in-person only event.\n \nThe Graduate Hotel \n126 West St\, Annapolis\, MD 21401 \nRegistration: http://www.mdmunicipal.org/65/Fall-Conference \n\n\n\n\n\n\nBe the Leader! Secure your organization as the information resource for Maryland’s Cities and Towns. Become a conference sponsor and show you want to do business with Maryland’s 157 local governments. More details to follow.\n\n\n\n\n\nPast MML conference attendees report that attending educational workshops and meeting with conference exhibitors have saved significant amounts of money from what their municipality had previously been spending for the same service or product. Attending MML’s 2022 Fall conference could pay big dividends.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMML is Nonpartisan\nThe Maryland Municipal League is a tax exempt\, nonpartisan association. As such\, and in compliance with IRS rules\, the association cannot promote nor do we participate in any demonstration of preference or bias toward a particular candidate or political party. \nMML reserves the right to decline any sponsor/exhibitor/advertiser/attendee requests who\, in the opinion of the League\, is not in keeping with its mission and goals. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/maryland-municipal-league-mml-fall-conference/ LOCATION:The Graduate Hotel\, 126 West St\, Annapolis\, MD\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference,Economic Development END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221006T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221006T163000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220823T211109Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220823T211110Z UID:49521-1665041400-1665073800@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:Maryland Manufacturing Innovation Conference DESCRIPTION:Event by partner of Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland (RMI) \nVisit event website for more info and sign up: \nhttps://web.cvent.com/event/eb320dfa-f231-4b58-b7ca-b320377b567f/summary URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/maryland-manufacturing-innovation-conference/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220918 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220922 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220520T222310Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220520T222311Z UID:47131-1663459200-1663804799@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 IEDC Annual Conference DESCRIPTION:Join us September 18-21\, 2022 in Oklahoma City\, OK for the 2022 Annual Conference!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConnect with thousands of economic development professionals at the 2022 IEDC Annual Conference and turn disruption into innovation and opportunity. This year’s program is officially live; make sure to check out the amazing sessions\, keynotes\, and more we have lined up. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEconomic developers today are facing unprecedented challenges. Rapidly changing\ntechnology and use of data are generating a sea change in how we work\, which has only been furthered by the pandemic. The pandemic has also exposed economic inequality in our communities to a degree not seen before. In OKC\, we’ll work through these obstacles together and build bold solutions for the future. Learn invaluable industry insight from the experts about today’s most pressing topics\, including economic reinvention\, community innovation\, and disaster recovery and resiliency. Finish off Economic Development Week strong and register today!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nREGISTER TODAY\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSEE THE PROGRAM\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAbout Oklahoma City\, OK\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNamed one of the Best Places to Visit by Frommer’s Travel and Travel + Leisure\, Oklahoma City offers all of the culture\, cuisine\, attractions and amenities you’d expect in a modern metropolis. And with its rugged Western past\, working stockyards and title as “Horse Show Capital of the World\,” it’s rich in cowboy culture\, as well. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEvent Location & Lodging\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOur room blocks close on August 24\, 2022. We recommend booking early as the room blocks may fill before this date. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConference Location:\nOKC Convention Center\n100 Mick Cornett Dr\,\nOklahoma City\, OK 73109 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAdditional Lodging:\nSheraton Oklahoma City Downtown\n1 N Broadway Ave\nOklahoma City\, OK\, 73102\nPhone: (800) 325-3535 (group code: C38)\nRoom Rate: $199/night \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMain Lodging:\nOmni Oklahoma City Hotel\n100 West Oklahoma City Blvd\nOklahoma City\, OK 73109\nPhone: (888) 444-6664\nRoom Rate: $229.00/night \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAdditional Lodging: \nCourtyard by Marriott Oklahoma City\nDowntown/Bricktown\n2 W. Reno Ave.\nOklahoma City\, OK\, 73102\nPhone: (800) 217-9905\nRoom Rate: $179/night URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-iedc-annual-conference/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220912 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220915 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220301T153424Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220808T191650Z UID:44888-1662940800-1663199999@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 Raising the Bar DESCRIPTION:The Raising the Bar Conference is back and we hope to see you there! We will be LIVE in person for AMAZING opportunities for your personal and professional development. This event gives you the chance to connect and foster relationships with other professionals in the region. Mark your calendars! URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-raising-the-bar/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220817T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220820T170000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220720T205307Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220720T210215Z UID:48933-1660723200-1661014800@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:Summer MACoCon News & Notes - 4 Weeks To Go! DESCRIPTION:4 Rs TO GET READY FOR SUMMER #MACoCon \n  \n1. Renew Your View of Maryland – \nPlan to Visit the County Exhibits in Hall ABC \nDon’t miss the county exhibits in Hall ABC\, especially the Taste of MD Reception on Thursday from 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm…county exhibits will offer tasting samples from around the state – oysters\, pickles\, cheese\, jams\, charcuterie\, cookies\, cakes\, beer\, wine\, coffee\, AND MORE! \n2. Reserve Your Discounted Hotel Room \nView the discounted hotel rooms and BOOK NOW – some of our blocks are already full\, expired\, or are selling out quickly \n3. Register for the Golf Tournament \nMACo’s Golf Tournament is on Wednesday\, August 17\, at the Ocean City Golf Club. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people or reconnect with old friends – set your own foursome or let MACo assign you to a group based on your business interests. Register for the Golf Tournament online\, view the rates\, or contact Virginia White for more details. \n4. Review our Showcase Sessions \nMACo’s Solutions Showcase features case studies and real-world examples of solutions and supports on topics like public safety and emergency communications\, ransomware attacks\, wind energy\, nuclear power\, solar permitting\, health insurance options\, and MORE are all being covered in our 30-minute showcase sessions. View the schedule for more info! \nRead More on MACo’s Blog \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/summer-macocon/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220727T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220727T121500 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220523T213634Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220726T181025Z UID:47169-1658912400-1658924100@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 MEDA Summer Conference DESCRIPTION:2022 MEDA SUMMER CONFERENCE\n“WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT“ \nJuly 27\, 2022\n9:00 am – 12:15 pm\nVirtual\nWorkforce development is an essential aspect of economic development. Businesses can’t thrive\, grow\, and succeed without a trained\, skilled\, and educated workforce to employ. There are so many innovative ideas and programs being created and implemented in the workforce development sphere; our 2022 MEDA Summer Conference is about bringing together an engaging group of experts and professionals to share and discuss what’s new\, what’s happening\, and what’s next in workforce development. \nHere are just a few of the topics our panelists and keynote speaker will discuss: \n\nmicro-credentialing and other “new” initiatives that help with a career path\nstrategies for talent recruitment and retention\nhow “paper ceiling” degree requirements hurt upward mobility for employees\, and impact employers’ diversity efforts and business growth\nhow apprenticeship\, upscaling\, and rescaling efforts can keep a business relevant\nhow to leverage your current workforce development infrastructure to maximize economic impact\nhow industry is adapting and evaluating their recruitment requirements\n\nSpeakers and panelists will discuss and share\, and be available for Q&As. \nClick here to view the Agenda.  \nClick here to view the minutes from the April Business Meeting. \n** Register Below ** \n\nOpening Remarks: James E. Rzepkowski\, Assistant Secretary\, Division of Workforce Development & Adult Learning\, Maryland Department of Labor \nPanel 1: “Future of Workforce Development: Building Local Workforce Development Systems that Produce Talent & Meet the Needs of Businesses” \nModerator: Amanda Wagner\, Chief Operating Officer\, Employ Prince George’s \nPanelists: \n\nChris Guidry\, Vice President\, Council for Adult & Experiential Learning (CAEL)\nManoach (Manny) Lamarre\, ETA\, United States Department of Labor\, Employment & Training Administration\nDr. Christopher Laney\, EdD\, CWDP\, Senior Workforce Strategist\, Lightcast\n\nMaryland has 13 different local workforce development areas\, with 13 different local workforce development boards\, over 30 different job centers\, and thousands of staff operating them\, but each of Maryland’s local workforce development areas have a common group of core partners and elements that can help drive the success of local economies. This panel of local and national experts will examine the current state of local workforce systems\, the future of Maryland and America’s workforce systems\, and how economic development organizations can leverage their local workforce systems to maximize economic outcomes in their local economy. \n\nPanel 2: “Advancing Workforce Preparation: Adaptive Strategies and Solutions to Current Skills Shortages” \nModerator: Ellen Flowers-Fields\, Associate Vice President for Continuing Education and Workforce Development\, College of Southern Maryland \nPanelists: \n\nNicholas D’Antonio\, Workforce Development Strategist\, Lockheed Martin\nBecky Klein-Collins\, Vice President of Impact\, Council for Adult & Experiential Learning (CAEL)\nTim Tatsui\, Vice President for workforce development career & technical education\, National Education Foundation\nKelly Koermer\, Vice President of Continuing Education & Training\, Carroll Community College\n\nPanelists will engage in an interactive discussion on effective strategies that are accelerating credential completion.  Learn how the blueprints for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)\, stackable credentialing\, micro-credentialing\, and digital badging supports this. \n\nKeynote Speaker: Bridgette Gray\, Chief Customer Officer\, Opportunity@Work \nBridgette will be speaking on “STARs: The Strategy to Find The Skilled and Diverse Talent You Need in Today’s Workforce” \nEmployers today say there’s a talent shortage – but what if they’re just not looking in the right place? There are more than 70+ million workers Skilled Through Alternative Routes (STARs)\, rather than through a bachelor’s degree\, who are being overlooked today. Nearly half of these STARs have the skills to thrive in in-demand roles\, but they’re overlooked and held back by the paper ceiling – the invisible barrier that comes at every turn for workers without a bachelor’s degree – and it’s hurting their upward mobility and employers’ diversity efforts. Learn about the size\, demographics\, and skills of the STARs talent pool\, ways to find them\, and how your organization can start supporting STARs. \n  \nKeynote Speaker \n\n \n \n \n \n Bridgette Gray\n \n Bridgette Gray is a strategist\, operator\, and organization builder. She exemplifies leading-edge best practices in inclusive talent development and onramps to opportunity\, and currently leads the Customer Success & Delivery team as Opportunity@Work scales the hiring of workers who are Skilled Through Alternative Routes (STARs) nationwide. \nGray joins Opportunity@Work after seven-and-a-half years at Per Scholas\, where she was their first Chief Impact Officer\, responsible for managing all training operations\, and organizational impact for Per Scholas’ 17 campuses. Bridgette joined Per Scholas in 2014 as the startup Managing Director for the National Capital Region where she was instrumental in leading Per Scholas’ cybersecurity training efforts\, including a regional cybersecurity task force\, which led to sizable investments from Symantec and Capital One. In 2015\, Bridgette joined the Executive Leadership team as the Executive Vice President of national program operations\, managing all training locations. \nIn 2019\, Bridgette became the Chief Impact Officer responsible for managing org-wide training operations & delivery\, impact\, and strategic programmatic growth. Under Bridgette’s leadership\, Per Scholas expanded its gold-standard evidenced-based model from five to 17 campuses\, from 800 to 3\,000 learners trained with a strategic plan to expand to 25 campuses and 10\,000 learners trained by 2025; and built a national team to support the growing campuses. Additionally\, and in response to COVID-19\, under Bridgette’s leadership\, Per Scholas expanded its traditional training model to not only in-person but also remote offerings. \nPrior to Per Scholas\, Bridgette held several senior and executive leadership roles at Year Up\, the Points of Light Foundation\, and the Corporation for National and Community Service. Bridgette has spent the last 20+ years helping diverse talent access and benefit from training and employment opportunities\, and helping businesses to acquire this talent\, and influencing DEI as central to their bottom line. \nBridgette can often be found adding her thought partnership and leadership to collective impact work with the Markle Foundation’s Rework America Alliance\, JFF’s Thrive @Work Innovation Council\, Racial Equity Learning Community @PolicyLink\, America Forward WFD & Economic Justice Task Force\, as a LEAP Ambassador\, and as a Founding Member of Chief DC. Bridgette served on the Montgomery County Maryland Workforce Board from (2014-2019). \n\n \n \n\nSpeakers \n\n \n \n \n \n Ellen Flowers-Fields\n \n Ellen Flowers-Fields serves as Associate Vice President for Continuing Education and\nWorkforce Development at the College of Southern Maryland. She is responsible for the\noversight of all areas of the non-credit economic and community development programming in\nSouthern Maryland\, including the Center for Trades and Energy Training\, MCET\, the Workforce\nCenter\, the SBDC\, the Non-Profit Institute\, the Transportation Center and adult basic education\nat all CSM campuses. \nEllen has over 25 years of progressive professional experience in the field of workforce\ndevelopment and human capital management. Her diverse background includes the acquisition\,\nproject management and implementation of various federal\, state and local programs that\naddress community economic development needs. Throughout her career she has acquired\nand managed nearly $100 million dollars in support of various economic and community\ndevelopment initiatives. Funding acquisition from USDOL\, USDA\, US Dept of Commerce\,\nVeterans Administration\, Federal Highway Administration\, and numerous state and local\nagencies\, in NY\, GA and MD. \nPrior to serving in her current role\, Ellen served Regional Director of the Small Business\nDevelopment Center at CSM. Ellen served as Acting Assistant Secretary\, and Deputy Assistant\nSecretary of the Division of Workforce Development & Adult Learning at the Maryland\nDepartment of Labor\, Licensing & Regulation from 2011 – 2014; Regional Director of Economic\nDevelopment at the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland from 2006 – 2011; and Executive\nDirector for Southern Maryland Works from 2000 – 2006. In this role\, Ellen led the efforts to\nestablish the region’s first One Stop workforce service delivery system and Workforce\nInvestment Board under the Federal Workforce Investment Act. \nEllen holds a Bachelors of Business Administration from Pace University in New York;\nCertification from the International Business Innovation Association in Business Incubation\nManagement; and is credentialed as a Global Career Development Facilitator from the Center\nfor Credentialing and Education. She is a 2009 graduate of the inaugural Class of Leadership\nSouthern Maryland\, an entrepreneur\, and a self-published author. \nAffiliations include Executive Board member Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland;\nMember of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals and the Maryland\nEconomic Development Association; Past Board Member Maryland Broadband Coordination\nBoard; Past board chair\, Bethel House Inc.; Immediate past Board chair\, Community\nFoundation of Southern Maryland; Alumni of the Inaugural class of Leadership Southern\nMaryland 2009.\nRecognitions include recipient of 2017 Excellence Award from the National League for\nInnovation in Community Colleges; 2018 recipient of CEO award from the Southern Maryland\nMinority Chamber of Commerce; Calvert County Commissioner’s Business owner appreciation\nrecognition 2008 & 2014; Recipient of 2008 Woman of the Year award from Calvert County\nConcerned Black Women; Recipient of 2005 Charles County Minority Business of the Year;\nNominations for the 2006 Leadership Maryland class and 2006 Maryland’s Top 100 Women. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Becky Klein-Collins\n \n Becky Klein-Collins is the vice president for research and impact at the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL). In this role\, she directs CAEL’s research agenda\, oversees research initiatives\, develops strategic partnerships\, and advocates for policies and strategies to support the adult learner. Becky’s work has focused on prior learning assessment\, competency-based education\, career pathways leading to economic mobility\, public policy change\, and system-transforming practices in workforce development. In 2018\, she published Never Too Late: The Adult Student’s Guide to College (2018). Becky has a bachelor’s degree from Grinnell College and master’s degrees from Indiana University and the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Tim Tatsui\n \n Dr. Tim Tatsui is Vice President of Workforce Development\, CTE and Higher Education at the National Education Foundation. Tim is a lifelong educator and began his career in education as a classroom teacher and Teach for America corps member in the Compton Unified School District. He served in Compton\, CA as a classroom educator and district trainer and curriculum coach\, and he advised teacher candidates and directed clinical practicum graduate studies at California State University\, Dominguez Hills\, Pepperdine University and Loyola Marymount University. Tim moved to the Los Angeles Unified School District where he advised and managed policy and program development and impact evaluation in the Offices of the Executive Officer and Chief Instructional Officer. \nIn 2007\, Tim joined Pearson and led consulting and implementation services with K12 District and State partnerships and Higher Education enterprise accounts in North America. He held a number of executive roles at Pearson\, launching and leading evaluation and research teams in the US and Canada and founding and heading the company’s Learning Analytics Business as Vice President of Data and Analytics at Pearson North America. \nTim is a Board Member at the UCLA School of Education and is an advisory Board Member at Jazz Hands for Autism and Edily Learning. Tim earned a B.A. from Baylor University\, teaching credentials from California State University\, Los Angeles\, a Doctor of Education at UCLA\, and an M.B.A. from the Anderson School of Management at UCLA. Tim enjoys reading\, spending time with his family\, and training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Nicholas D’Antonio\n \n Nicholas (Nick) D’Antonio currently serves as a Senior Workforce Development Strategist at Lockheed Martin managing the corporation’s relationships with community and technical colleges. In his capacity\, Nick also manages federal and state training incentives that support the company’s workforce and training needs. Previously\, Nick held roles at Amazon\, Koch Industries\, the United States Department of Labor\, and the National Association of Manufacturers. Nick is a Talent of Tomorrow Fellow with Jobs For the Future\, he serves on the advisory committee for Northern Virginia Community College’s Engineering Technology Division\, and is the Co-Chair of the Lockheed Martin Enterprise Operations PRIDE resource group. Nick is also a member of the Burlington County New Jersey Workforce Investment Board. \nNick is a graduate of Washington State University’s Carson College of Business (Master of Business Administration) and of American University (Bachelor in Business Administration). He is now pursuing his doctorate from North Carolina State University in Community College Leadership and Administration. Nick lives in Asheville\, North Carolina with his partner (Emily) and two cats (Wonk and Buna). \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Manny Lamarre\n \n Senior Advisor\nU.S. DOL\, Employment and Training Administration (ETA) \nManny’s career has been focused on the intersection of workforce development and education policy\,\npractice\, and research that leads to economic mobility for youth and adults across several states. His\nbackground includes developing and managing career pathway strategies and policies\, registered\napprenticeships\, public and private sector engagement\, postsecondary pathways\, federal and state\nworkforce policies such as WIOA and Perkins.\nManny’s direct experience designing and implementing workforce policies at the state level informs his\napproach. He is the former founding Executive Director of the Nevada Governor’s Office of Workforce\nInnovation and served as the Governor’s Designee on the Governor’s Workforce Development Board\nguiding the Board’s strategy and WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) implementation. In\naddition\, he led the implementation of the state’s workforce vision and key policies from 2016-2019\nwhile building a new state agency and overseeing the state’s Registered Apprenticeship system. Before\njoining ETA\, Manny led and supported research and technical assistance projects on workforce and\neconomic mobility at WestEd\, a national nonpartisan research organization. Earlier in his career\, Manny\nwas a classroom teacher and associate at a community foundation working in several states.\nManny holds a B.A. in Political Science with honors from Wittenberg University\, and a Master’s in\nEducation Policy and Management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education\, where he was the\nrecipient of the Class Marshal Award for leadership and service to the Harvard community. He has\nauthored several workforce reports and presented both nationally and internationally. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n James Rzepkowski\n \n James E. Rzepkowski is the Assistant Secretary for the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning at the Maryland Department of Labor. Within the Division are five Offices that implement the mission of the Division: Workforce Development\, Adult Education & Literacy Services\, Correctional Education\, Fiscal Administration\, and Workforce Information & Performance. From January 2019 to August 2019\, he served as Acting Secretary of the Maryland Department of Labor.\nPrior to his appointment by the Hogan-Rutherford Administration in February 2015\, he served 8 years as the Corporate Director of Workforce Development at Constellation Energy Nuclear Group\, LLC (CENG)\, headquartered in Baltimore\, Maryland. He developed and implemented the company’s mission critical workforce development initiative leveraging strategic partnerships with educational institutions in multiple states to provide a pipeline of skilled and qualified workers to meet the growing needs of the energy industry. Mr. Rzepkowski represented CENG on numerous national industry association boards focused on adult learning and technical training as well as state and local workforce development organizations.\nConcurrent to his employment at CENG\, Mr. Rzepkowski was appointed to the Anne Arundel County Board of Appeals in January 2007 to a four-year term by unanimous vote of the Anne Arundel County Council. The quasi-judicial Board that renders final decisions on appeals related to zoning\, variances\, licenses\, permits\, personnel\, and executive\, administrative\, and judicatory orders in Anne Arundel County\, Maryland.\nPrior to joining CENG in February of 2007\, he served 12 years in Maryland State Government in both Executive and Legislative capacities – three years as an Assistant Secretary within Maryland’s Department of Business and Economic Development and nine years as an elected member of the Maryland House of Delegates representing the 32nd Legislative District in Anne Arundel County.\nHe earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Government and Politics\, with Phi Beta Kappa Honors\, from the University of Maryland – College Park. \n\n \n \n \n \n \n Amanda Wagner\n \n Amanda Wagner is the Chief Operating Officer at Employ Prince George’s. In her current role Amanda\nleads the internal operations of the $18 million nonprofit and serves as the organizations principal staff\nmember tasked with overseeing the Administrative Agent duties for the Prince George’s County\nWorkforce Development Board. Prior to becoming the Chief Operating Officer at Employ Prince\nGeorge’s\, Amanda served as the Director\, Strategic Planning & Development\, leading the organization in\npursuing millions of dollars in workforce development funding to support the delivery of workforce\ndevelopment services to job seekers and businesses.\nAmanda is a decorated workforce development professional with certifications as a Global Career\nDevelopment Facilitator\, Certified Workforce Development Professional\, and a Certified Business\nServices Consultant. Prior to joining Employ Prince George’s Amanda worked for two national workforce\ndevelopment organizations\, Henkels & McCoy and Eckerd Connects\, leading teams across the United\nStates as One Stop Operators\, WIOA Title I Adult\, Dislocated Worker and Youth Career Service\nproviders.\nAmanda has been a member of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals for\nover a decade. Along with a decorated history in the Workforce Development Industry\, Amanda holds a\nMaster of Science (M.S.) focused on Youth Development from Clemson University and Bachelor of Arts\n(B.A.) in Communications from Southern New Hampshire University. When not building the America’s\nworkforce\, Amanda enjoys being a wife\, mother to her two children\, volunteer in the Charleston Area\,\nbeing a triathlete\, competing in marathons and triathlons across the United States. \nAmanda is a decorated workforce development professional with certifications as a Global Career Development Facilitator\, Certified Workforce Development Professional and a Certified Business Services Consultant. Prior to joining Employ Prince George’s Amanda worked for two national workforce development organizations\, Henkels & McCoy and Eckerd Connects\, leading teams across the United States as One Stop Operators\, WIOA Title I Adult\, Dislocated Worker and Youth Career Service providers. Amanda has been a member of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals for over a decade. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-meda-summer-conference/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220424 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220427 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20211007T163704Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220503T180817Z UID:42096-1650758400-1651017599@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 MEDA Annual Conference DESCRIPTION:Infrastructure plays a crucial role in creating cohesive\, economically vibrant communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced communities to rethink the framework\, adapting social and physical structures to reflect shifting priorities. The 2022 MEDA Annual Conference will explore these shifts\, and their implications on economic developers hoping to increase jobs and community investment. \nDecisions made today will impact our economy and our quality of life for decades\, so it’s important to get them right. Nationally-recognized keynotes and experts in workforce development\, economic equity\, small business development\, multimodal transportation\, broadband\, and more will lend perspective and purpose to our efforts ahead. \nScroll down this page to register for the\n2022 MEDA Annual Conference\nUpdate: Early bird registration deadline is extended to April 18! \nRooms start at $195 a night. Please use this reservation link. The cutoff for reservations is April 18\, 2022. \nSupport MEDA’s Scholarship Funds by contributing to our 15th Annual Silent Auction! This year’s Silent Auction will be held at the 2022 MEDA Annual Conference. Although we’ll be in person\, we’ll continue to use the Handbid Silent Auction website. In the past\, we have received some great items from weekend getaways to wine tastings\, Oriole Tickets to brewery tours and more. For more information\, contact Margaret Bollhorst at margaretb@medamd.com or 410-456-6459. Thank you for your continued support! \nSilent Auction Now Live! \nThe auction is taking place on the Handbid app and website. To access our Silent Auction:\n–Download the Handbid app to your iPhone or android phone and search for MEDA Foundation\n-or-\n–go to the Handbid website online at: www.events.handbid.com/auctions/meda-foundation-15th-silent-auction \nView Speaker Slides \nKeynote Stu Solomon\, CEO of Connected DMV\, spoke on “Regionalism: Together We Can.”  He shared the slides from his presentation\, which you can view here. \nAnirban Basu\, Chairman & CEO of Sage Policy Group\, Inc.\, shared his slides for his presentation titled “No Time to Buy.” View his slides here.  \n  \nAccess the 2022 MEDA Winter Conference Business Meeting minutes here. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-meda-annual-conference/ LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay\, 100 Heron Blvd. at Route 50\, Cambridge\, MD\, 21613\, United States CATEGORIES:Conference,Networking END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220308T084500 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220308T103000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20220216T172044Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220308T040006Z UID:44586-1646729100-1646735400@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 Economic Development Day DESCRIPTION:Public sector leaders share their mid-session thoughts on economic development-related legislation that will be considered by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2022 session. \nThis event is open to MEDA Members\, and Elected and Appointed Officials. \nThis is a virtual event. \nClick here to view the agenda. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-economic-development-day/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20220113T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220113T123000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20210730T173306Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220112T203913Z UID:40457-1642064400-1642077000@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:2022 MEDA Winter Conference DESCRIPTION:Public and private sector leaders share their thoughts on economic development-related legislation that will be considered by the Maryland General Assembly during the 2022 session. \n\n\n\n\nThe health and safety of our community\, staff\, and event attendees is MEDA’s highest priority. MEDA has moved this conference to a virtual format. \nAccess the draft agenda by clicking on this link. \nClick here to view the 2021 Fall MEDA Business Meeting minutes. \n  URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/2022-meda-winter-conference/ LOCATION:VIRTUAL CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20211201T081500 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20211201T110000 DTSTAMP:20260415T203200 CREATED:20211118T152956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211118T153745Z UID:43105-1638346500-1638356400@www.medamd.com SUMMARY:RMI Event: Sustainability in Manufacturing Virtual Conference DESCRIPTION:There are substantial benefits for manufacturing companies to develop and invest in sustainability strategies. Operational efficiency\, cost and waste reduction\, workforce attraction\, customer expansion\, long term business viability\, regulatory compliance and public trust are just some of them. And a commitment to sustainability not only directly impacts businesses but also the communities in which they operate and the world in which we live. \nIf sustainability is a long-range goal\, but the costs seem unsustainable to your company\, you’re not alone. You may think it’s unrealistic that your company can achieve sustainability\, but you can\, and our industry experts will show you how. \nWherever your company is on the sustainability path\, join us to hear from local\, national\, and global manufacturing firm leaders who will help you move forward. Regardless of your company’s size\, sector\, or grasp of the subject matter\, you’ll leave with practical strategies to begin or enhance your own journey to sustainability and positively impact the greater good. URL:https://www.medamd.com/event/rmi-event-sustainability-in-manufacturing-virtual-conference/ LOCATION:MD CATEGORIES:Conference END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR