CAREER CENTER

AZED Pro Certification

Certification Program

The Economic Development Academy of Arizona (The Academy) offers the Arizona Economic Development Professional (AZED Pro) certification to professionals and service providers in Arizona. Those who complete six core courses and one elective within three (3) years of beginning the program will become certified.

Graduation from The Academy occurs during the Spring Conference and Fall Forum.

AAED is introducing the Economic Development Cohort Program starting January 1, 2024. The cohort program is a new way to earn your AZED Pro certification. More information on the cohort program and information on how to apply can be found on the cohort page.

You do not need to be an AAED member to participate in The Academy program or the cohort program.

AZED Pro Cohort Program

Once you are AZED Pro certified, you are responsible for maintaining your certification. Recertification guidelines are outlined below.

AZED Pro Recertification Program

2024 Course Schedule

  • March 27, 2024 – Economic Development and Arizona (Green)
  • April 23, 2024 in Lake Havasu City – Workforce Development (Orange)
  • May 14, 2024 – Northern Summit Overlay on Tourism (Grey)
  • June 26, 2024 in Phoenix – Arizona Taxation, Finance & Incentives (Gold)
  • August 28, 2024 in Phoenix – Marketing and Business Development (Red)
  • September 25, 2024 in Phoenix – Business Retention and Expansion (Blue)
  • October 23, 2024 in Prescott – Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development (Purple)

*The dates and topics are subject to change in the next couple of weeks; however, the months will remain the same*

 

Thank you to our classroom sponsor for 2024!

I joined AAED to gain knowledge and understanding of economic development across Arizona. Within my first two years in the organization, I have not only enhanced my understanding and knowledge but have also been able to build relationships among professionals in the field through my involvement in AAED committees, conferences and events, and AZED Pro courses. AAED has allowed me to expand my professional network, garner planning and leadership skills through committee work, and further foster my passion for economic development.

Ashley Mazariegos, AZED Pro

Economic Development Specialist, City of Buckeye

Recertification Form – Submit Online

Name

PLEASE NOTE: Must have points from each category

Place the date or event name in the appropriate column to earn points.

Level 1 Points: (3 points each; Max of 6 points)

Panelist on AZED Pro seminar/webinar

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Presenter at a Conference

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Serve on AAED Board

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Chair or Vice Chair of an AAED Committee or Affinity Group

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Serve as a mentor for Young Professionals

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Recruit new AZED Pro candidates

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Write a white paper for AAED

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Level 2 Points: (2 points each; Max of 6 points)

Attend Spring Conference

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Attend Fall Forum

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Wrote a news article for AAED

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Secured a sponsorship for AAED events

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Level 3 Points (1 point each; Max of 3)

Attend a webinar

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Attend an AAED special event (Legislative Lunch on the Lawn, After Hours, etc.)

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

Serve on an AAED standing committee or Affinity Group

Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name
Place the date or event name

AZED Pro Courses

Economic Development in Arizona (green)

This course provides an overview of Arizona’s economic development and key economic drivers. Topics covered are Arizona’s leading industries, legislative processes, rural and tribal economic development, ethics, and inclusive economic development.

Business Retention & Expansion (blue)

This course covers the core components of BRE.

Arizona Taxation, Finance, & Incentives (gold)

This course provides expert training on Arizona’s business taxes, Arizona’s Business Assistance Programs, marketing and use of each program, small business financing, and foreign direct investments.

Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development (purple)

This course covers entrepreneurship in Arizona, small business development, and downtown development.

Marketing & Business Development (red)

This workshop helps attendees identify their brand’s critical elements, create a strategy to tell their story, and reach their target audience.

Arizona Workforce Development (orange)

This course covers building a workforce that ensures Arizona’s economic health and vitality. Topics covered are data-driven workforce development strategies, labor market trends, finding and attracting talent, and workforce funding.

Elective Courses (grey)

Students must complete one elective course. Topics may include Tourism, Retail Development, Tribal Issues, Advocacy, or other timely topics.