Proud to have Julie Pruett, CEcD, as part of our team!
This week we're highlighting NCEDA Board Member, Julie Pruett, CEcD! Julie is the Development Manager for the Marlboro Development Team. We asked her some questions to help you get to know her better. Learn more about Julie below! What aspects of serving on the NCEDA Board do you find most fulfilling or meaningful? A: I love serving and giving back to an organization that has given me so much. Despite having only completed my first year on the Board, I have gained a deep appreciation for the contributions made by all board members to advance the profession of economic development. The critical involvement in transformative legislative initiatives, comprehensive educational and training programs, and informative conferences focused on networking and timely content for its members is remarkably motivating. Furthermore, the creation and support of the NCEDA Foundation has significantly expanded the availability of scholarships and Fellowships for our members and the next generation of economic development professionals. This is truly a working Board, and I am honored to serve alongside some of the brightest and most dedicated professionals in the field today. Reflecting on your career, what accomplishment or contribution has been particularly significant to you? A: Showing an empty building or greenfield site to multiple clients and finally closing an economic development project, then watching the building fill with people and machinery or a site transform into a state-of-the-art facility filled with newly created jobs, is the most rewarding feeling. Each project is deeply meaningful and personal because you know you have impacted individuals and their families. Having watched the transformation of Catawba County over the past 20 years and knowing I have contributed to this remarkable change is immensely rewarding. What do you appreciate most about the NCEDA? A: When I began my career in economic development 27 years ago, NCEDA was the first organization that I joined. Through this organization, I have forged some of my closest friendships and professional relationships. I didn't just join an organization; I joined a family. The lifelong connections I have made during my involvement with NCEDA are invaluable and have even helped me transition into a new role in industrial development a few years ago. The altruistic people within this organization lend their unwavering support and guidance to one another, making NCEDA truly unique. Learn more about Julie here: www.nceda.org/about/board/