On June 6-7, interns from the Economic Development Association of Alabama (EDAA) embarked on an enlightening two-day journey into the heart of economic development. This immersive program, led by the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development team, offered these young professionals a unique opportunity to gain practical knowledge and insights crucial for their future careers.The two-day program was designed to provide interns with a comprehensive understanding of economic development in Alabama. The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development team guided the interns through mock economic site visits, simulating the perspective of potential industrial buyers. This hands-on approach allowed interns to experience the site selection process firsthand, showcasing the myriad opportunities available in Montgomery.
The program featured several key activities that enriched the interns' learning experience:
- Mock Economic Site Visits: Interns participated in simulated site visits, learning how industrial buyers evaluate potential locations for development. This exercise was instrumental in providing a real-world understanding of site selection and economic development strategies.
- Tour of Hyundai Motor Manufacturing: Interns toured the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing facility, gaining insight into one of Alabama's major industrial operations. This tour highlighted the significant role of manufacturing in the state's economy and offered a behind-the-scenes look at the production processes.
To balance the intensive learning sessions, interns participated in evening events designed to foster networking and camaraderie. These events included:
- Montgomery Whitewater Adventure: Interns enjoyed the excitement of Montgomery Whitewater. This recreational activity not only provided a fun break but also illustrated the importance of quality-of-life factors in economic development.
- Trilogy Hotel Mixer: An evening at the Trilogy Hotel allowed interns to unwind and connect with one another, as well as with industry professionals, in a relaxed setting.
- Dinner at Ravello: The interns dined at Ravello, enjoying good food and conversation while discussing the day's experiences and insights.
The EDAA internship program brought together interns from various state economic development organizations, including:
- Alabama Department of Commerce
- Economic Development Partnership of Alabama
- Alabama Power Company
- PowerSouth Energy Cooperative
- SpireEnergy
- SouthEast Gas
- Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development
The two-day program was a resounding success, providing EDAA interns with invaluable practical knowledge and a clearer picture of the economic development landscape in Alabama. As these interns continue their journey, the experiences and connections made during this program will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for their future careers in economic development.
