YCDA Leads Economic Development Session for Leadership Yakima Program

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Tour at Rankin

Last week, Yakima County Development Association’s Economic Development Manager, Joe Schmitt, took center stage to lead an engaging session on Yakima County’s business climate and economic development as part of the Greater Yakima Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Leadership Yakima Program.

Here’s a recap of the days events that included a mix of tours and presentations :

  • Yakima Airport- Participants explored the role of the Yakima Airport as a hub for regional connectivity and potential growth.
  • Rankin Equipment Company- A behind the scenes look at how this company supports agriculture and industry in the Yakima Valley.
  • Ace Retail Support Center- An exclusive view of logistics operations, that supporting regional retail locations.

Informative Presentations Included:

  • Mike Darrow (Washington Small Business Development Center): Shared valuable insights on small business growth and development.
  • Joe Schmitt (YCDA): Provided an Economics 101 session, breaking down Yakima Count’s economic landscape.
  • Scott Clark (Clark Development and Consulting): Provided updates on Amazon and other exciting industrial developments in the area.

We appreciate our local businesses and partners who dedicated their time and expertise to this program.  Leadership Yakima participants are gaining hands-on experiences and the tools necessary to help shape our community’s future.

YCDA is proud to support the Leadership Yakima Program and looks forward to fostering the next generation of leaders in Yakima County.  

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