LAKE HAVASU CITY – The Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED) came to Lake Havasu last week to celebrate their 50th anniversary. This was a four-day celebration that kicked off on Tuesday, April 23 and ended on Friday, April 26 at the London Bridge Resort.
AAED is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 1974 and now has over five hundred members across the state of Arizona. They represent urban, rural, and suburban interest for economic development. The foundation of the organization is based on three standards; educate, advocate, and collaborate.
They strive to bring about positive change and expand the state’s investments as well as create jobs. There is an annual fee associated with being a AAED member. Membership fees vary and are based on goals of the individuals.
The celebration was organized by Lake Havasu’s Skip Becker of AZED Pro. The conference was jam packed with influential industry based keynote speakers, meals, and social networking cocktail gatherings. The first day was an AAED’s orange learning course. This class provided attendees information about developments in the workforce and the relationship it has with the economic development of Arizona communities.
Wednesday, the members eased their way into the activities that were ahead with a welcome reception followed by a celebration dinner. On Thursday, guests of the event got the scoop from the seven past presidents of AAED. As the veterans shared the situations they faced during their tenures. This was followed by their Five Generations, One Workforce speech by Managing Director of Sendero Consulting Amy Goad, who addressed the generational differences and similarities in the workplace and how both backgrounds and experiences can come together to create harmonious work environments.
Other topics discussed on that day were the affordable housing crisis of our state, Arizona tourism, the technology industries of Arizona, and many more subjects were addressed by numerous businesses. The conclusion of the conference ended with discussions about legislative updates for the upcoming election season by the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, and a cultivating leadership through community involvement speech which was lead by CEO Adam Goodman of Goodman’s furniture.
Goodman addressed his findings of unconscious bias in his own company, and what is being done about it. The powerful AAED organization was created for individuals who wish network with business leaders, elected officials, and economic workforce development professionals across the state of Arizona. For Becker, celebration was a way pay homage to those members who have provided inspiration to the many members of AAED.
“It was great to the AAED 50th Anniversary Celebration and Spring Conference in my hometown beautiful Lake Havasu City. The 5oth Anniversary was all about honoring those who served before us, who built the foundation that the association is today. The Spring Conference is our way of honoring members who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in economic development. It has been an honor to lead AAED from 2023 to 2024.”
Phaedra Veronique
