Monica Heath Graduates as a Certified Economic Developer

NASHVILLE — Executive Director of the McKenzie Industrial Development/McKenzie Chamber of Commerce Monica Cravens Heath was part of The University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services’ (CIS’) 21st graduating class of its Tennessee Certified Economic Developer (TCED) Program. This cohort brings the total number of Tennessee Certified Economic Developers to 135. Heath is the lone person with that designation in Carroll County.

“Our Tennessee Certified Economic Developers have shown remarkable dedication in earning this designation,” said TCED Program Director Tintin Czach. “Their expertise will be a huge asset to their communities, helping to drive growth and lead innovation across the state. We’re excited to see the positive impact they will have on Tennessee’s future.”

Graduation was held at the UT Institute for Public Service (IPS) Training Center in Nashville, where graduates presented their Capstone Projects - the final requirement for earning the TCEcD designation. Heath’s final project was titled “Developing an Internship Program in a Rural, At-Risk Community.”

TCED candidates completed a week-long Basic Economic Development Course, along with six core courses and eight elective hours focused on economic and community development, totaling 92 instructional hours. The TCED Program provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of economic trends, tools and core components required to compete in today’s global economy.

Heath is the full-time executive director of the City of McKenzie Industrial Development Board that works to support existing industries and recruit additional industries. She is also the director of the McKenzie Chamber of Commerce and Industry, an organization to support the retail and business sectors of the city of McKenzie.

The offices are located on Broadway Street in downtown McKenzie.