Calhoun County, AL – Calhoun County recently hosted a group of emerging leaders in economic development from across Alabama for the EDAA Young Professionals Market Tour — a two-day event highlighting the region’s industrial strength, workforce initiatives, and growing sense of community.
The Calhoun County Economic Development Council (EDC) organized the event, welcoming state-level project managers, regional partners, and developers to explore how collaboration and partnerships have fueled Calhoun County’s growth and positioned it as a competitive location for new business. The market tour featured interactive site visits, networking sessions, and discussions focused on innovation and quality of place.
“Hosting the EDAA YP Market Tour was a great opportunity to visit with the rising leaders in economic development,” said Don Hopper, Executive Director of the Calhoun County EDC. “Calhoun County is built on relationships, and these young professionals represent the future of our state’s growth. We are thankful to have been able to share Calhoun County’s industries and community strengths with them.”
Two of the EDC’s long-standing industrial partners—Associated Metalcast and New Flyer of America—opened their facilities for the tour, showcasing advanced manufacturing processes that drive local and regional economic success. Participants saw firsthand how both companies use automation and computer-aided design to maximize efficiency and quality. Beyond their production capabilities, both firms are deeply involved in workforce development and education partnerships across the county.
“AMI is proud to partner with the Calhoun County Economic Development Council to support the EDAA Young Professionals Market Tour,” said Jon Douglas, Vice President of Operations at Associated Metalcast. “Opportunities like this allow us to showcase the strength of our region’s manufacturing community and inspire the next generation of leaders who will continue driving growth and innovation here in Alabama.”
Day two featured a visit to CREATE, the Regional Workforce Center serving East Alabama. “CREATE was excited to be selected as a stop on the EDAA Young Professionals market tour,” said Director Lorie Denton. “It’s important that Calhoun County ensures we are building relationships with future leaders of the state of Alabama.”
The event concluded with a “Quality of Place” panel at CREATE, where community leaders discussed how Calhoun County’s cultural assets, outdoor recreation, and public spaces contribute to economic vitality. Panelists highlighted investments in the Chief Ladiga Trail, Main Streets, and green spaces as critical to attracting families and young professionals.
“I’m grateful to the Calhoun County EDC for the opportunity to speak on the Quality of Place panel and discuss how downtown revitalization continues to shape and strengthen our community,” said Hunter Gentry, Director of Historic Main Street for the City of Oxford.
“Trails and outdoor recreation spaces are a key component of a healthy and thriving community, which is the foundation of economic growth,” added Dr. Tim Lindblom, Dean of the College of Science and Mathematics at Jacksonville State University.
The EDAA Young Professionals Market Tour is part of a statewide initiative by the Economic Development Association of Alabama to connect and empower emerging professionals. “We are grateful to the Calhoun County EDC and community leadership for hosting the EDAA young professionals,” said Jacqueline Chandler, EDAA YP Committee Chair. “These tours create meaningful opportunities to learn best practices and build lasting relationships among peers across the state.”
Through events like this, Alabama’s next generation of economic developers continues to build connections, exchange ideas, and advance the shared goal of sustainable community growth.
