BEDC Executive Director Mike Kamerlander Earns Certified Economic Developer Designation

BASTROP, Texas (April 23, 2019) – Mike Kamerlander, executive director of the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), is now a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD).

The national recognition from the International Economic Development Council denotes a mastery of skills in economic development, professional attainment and a commitment to personal and professional growth.

“This accomplishment exemplifies my commitment to pursue purpose-driven economic development, and it is an honor to join the esteemed group of economic developers who hold this designation. Together, with community and business leaders, the BEDC will continue to showcase why Bastrop is a great place to do business,” said Kamerlander.

There are currently over 1,100 active CEcDs in the United States. The designation recognizes qualified and dedicated practitioners in the economic development field and sets the standard of excellence within the profession. Candidates must pass a rigorous and comprehensive examination, which has three parts and spans two days. The exam tests a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency and judgment in the following key areas of economic development:

• Business retention and expansion
• Finance and credit analysis
• Marketing and attraction
• Strategic planning
• Entrepreneurial and small-business development
• Managing economic development organizations
• Neighborhood development strategies
• Real estate development and reuse
• Technology-led economic development
• Workforce development strategies

Key accomplishments during Kamerlander’s tenure to date include:

• Reformulating strategic plan to meet measurable and realistic goals and objectives;
• Employing an integrated communications strategy to advance the investment, development, growth and relocation of companies within the area;
• Attracting new, sought-after retailers and retail developments to the community; and
• Advancing education and workforce development.

“Mike is a leader in the field of economic development. He and his staff are committed to advancing its mission to create primary jobs and increase economic opportunities for our residents. This designation recognizes his business acumen and dedication to success,” Kathryn Nash, chair of the Bastrop EDC board of directors, said.

Kamerlander has nine years of economic development and marketing experience, most recently as the vice president of the Greater San Marcos Partnership. He previously served as the director of business retention and expansion for the Austin Chamber of Commerce and was a policy analyst for the Texas Senate. Mike is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor's degree in government.

About the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation
Established in 1995, the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) enhances the quality of life in Bastrop, Texas by advancing the investment, development, growth and relocation of companies within the area. In addition to providing appropriate infrastructure, it promotes and supports economic development in the community that offers the people of Bastrop sustainable, meaningful and rewarding employment opportunities, and greater access to desirable goods and services. Visit http://bastropedc.org.

About the International Economic Development Council
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a nonprofit membership organization serving economic developers. With more than 4,700 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, members are employed in a wide variety of settings and create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities and improve the quality of life in their regions. Visit www.iedcONLINE.org.

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