September 2024
Jennifer Ryan
As GEDI celebrates its 40th class of the Intensive Economic Development Training Course, we have been chatting with some of our course alumni to learn where they are now and how their participation in the program has impacted their professional careers.
Rashard Howard currently serves as the Business Development Director for CSX. Mr. Howard is a graduate of Intensive Class 2015.
Q & A with Rashard
Since graduating from the Intensive program in 2015, I have been able to play a pivotal role as an economic development logistics lead, acquiring over $15 billion of capital investment and creating 13,000+ jobs in key projects within my territory. Notable projects I have led include Novelis in Baldwin County, AL; James Hardie in Prattville, AL; Georgia Pacific in Talladega, AL and Jackson, TN; Wayne Farms in Newton, AL; Montgomery Inland Port in Montgomery, AL; Diageo Beverages in Montgomery, AL; Ford Motor Company in Stanton, TN; and Enviva Biomass in Pascagoula, MS. Additionally, I am a proud graduate of the Leadership Alabama Class XXXII.
I collaborate with my classmates on a daily basis in various capacities, and it's evident that many of us have taken on additional responsibilities in our professional lives. The trust and rapport established in this program provide a great sense of comfort, as it underscores the knowledge base we rely on to successfully navigate and close deals.
It is essential to go through this program if you are looking to expedite your knowledge base and build relationships in the economic development space and become a true subject matter expert. The classes provide you with real case studies to learn from and a platform to build the necessary knowledge to be successful and achieve your goals.
The Auburn Intensive Economic Development Program is one of the best places to enhance your knowledge of industrial development. The classes are practical, and you have the opportunity to learn from seasoned industry veterans. This program helped me shorten my learning curve when I was new to economic development, and I have had a successful career thus far as a result.
