How can economic development professionals better connect with their communities and create a shared vision for regional success?
In this episode of Develop This!, Dennis Fraise sits down with Mark Perna to discuss the importance of understanding the "why" behind economic development and creating stronger connections between communities, education, employers, and young people.
Mark explains why younger generations want purpose and relevance, and how economic developers can help students understand the opportunities available to them long before they enter the workforce. The conversation explores early career exploration, career trees, and the importance of balancing academic achievement with technical and life skills.
Another major focus is breaking down the silos that often exist between education, employers, economic development organizations, and community groups. Mark shares why bringing these stakeholders together is essential to building a workforce strategy that reflects the needs of the entire region.
The conversation also highlights the power of storytelling. Mark explains how communities can use compelling stories to communicate their vision, attract talent and investment, and help residents understand why economic development matters.
Throughout the episode, Dennis and Mark emphasize the importance of community engagement, experiential learning, and creating a shared rallying point that brings people together around a common vision.
Explaining the "why" creates stronger community engagement
Early career exploration can help young people understand future opportunities
Breaking down silos strengthens regional workforce development
Storytelling can help communities attract talent and investment
Education, employers, and economic developers must work together
Experiential learning helps connect young people with real-world opportunities
A shared community vision can create momentum for regional growth
Taking action early is critical to building community buy-in
The importance of explaining the "why" in economic development
Career exploration and workforce development
Connecting education, employers, and communities
Breaking down silos between regional stakeholders
Storytelling and community engagement
Building a shared vision for regional success
Engaging younger generations
Strategies for bringing diverse stakeholders together
"Are we good at explaining the 'why'?"
"Young people refuse to waste their time."
"You can be successful with a 2.5 GPA."
