The MEDC is one of only 20 programs in the nation accredited by the American Economic Development Council. The 30-hour course enables participants to qualify for that organization's Economic Development Institute, and is the first step in acquiring the designation of Certified Economic Developer. Course presenters include Judy Moore of the Kalamazoo Chamber of Commerce, Dan Ogema from the City of Grand Rapids, George Erickcek of Kalamazoo's W.E. Upjohn Institute and James Hettinger of Battle Creek Unlimited, along with other business experts from Southwest Michigan and around the nation. Classes run Monday through Friday, with Wednesday afternoon reserved for recreational activities including fishing, golf or shopping. The course concludes Friday afternoon with an awards ceremony.
Registration is limited and space is filling quickly.