Meet the Team

Lori Barton

Lori Barton

Economic Development Specialist
Office: (865) 974-6628
Tintin Czach, TCEcD

Tintin Czach

TCED Program Manager
Office: (615) 532-4922
Kim Denton

Kim Denton

Economic Development Director
Office: (865) 974-8464
Autumn Derrick

Autumn Derrick

Workforce Development Consultant
Office: (423) 506-2096
Tamera Parsons

Tamera Parsons

Performance Improvement Consultant
Office: (615) 532-4926

Completed TCED Capstones

TCED CAPSTONE

Illustration of a mountain with a flag at the top and stops along the way up the mountain.

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2024):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2024):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2023):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2023): 

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2022):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2022):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2021):


TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2021):


TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring & Fall 2020):


TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2019):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2019):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2018):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2018):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2017):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2017):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2016):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2016):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2015):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Spring 2015):

TCED Alumni Capstone Projects (Fall 2014):

TCED Certification

Certification in Three Steps

Participants who complete all TCED program and certification requirements are awarded the Tennessee Certified Economic Developer (TCEcD) designation.

Participants must complete the following required coursework:


To get started, review the TCED course listing and register for a course. Course offerings are structured so particpants can complete certfication requirements within two years.

Course Substitutions 

Participants may substitute up to two IEDC-accredited Basic Economic Development courses for TBEDC credit and up to two of the six core courses with IEDC equivalents. Substitutions are allowed if the IEDC courses were completed within three years of beginning the TCED program and proof of completion is provided to TCED Program Director Tintin Czach. 

Candidates apply their TCED knowledge to address a real challenge in their community or organization through a capstone project that includes:

  • Report (10–15 pages double spaced)
  • Presentation (five minutes)


Eligibility: Candidates may begin the capstone process after completing TBEDC and four of the six core courses. Timeline: Most projects take two to six months. Candidates must finish within two years of completing core coursework. Project Eligibility: Candidates can choose a new project or a project conducted within the final year of TCED coursework, ideally a topic they are passionate about implementing in their organization or community.

Past Projects: View past capstone projects.

Forms and Guidelines 

Recertification is required every three years and focuses on continuing education opportunities. Spring graduates must recertify by June 30, and fall graduates must recertify by December 31.  

Required hours may be satisfied by taking TCED courses and/or other economic development conferences and professional development. A minimum of 48 hours of professional development is required over the three-year cycle, with 16 hours of training recommended per year. 

To start the recertification process, download the three PDFs below, and follow the guidelines document.

  1. TCEcD Recertification Guidelines
  2. TCEcD Recertification Application
  3. TCEcD Recertification Worksheet
TCED

Get Certified

Ready to get certified? Download the TCED Capstone Project application.

Please direct questions to Tintin Czach.

Download an Application

Past Capstone Projects

Spring 2024


Fall 2024

Spring 2022

  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Rural Tennessee Agriculture: A Workforce Study - Katherine Bailey, TCEcD
  • Creating a Co-working Space in Rural Northwest Tennessee - Landy Fuqua, TCEcD
  • Economic Impact of Generational Revitalization Projects in Small Towns - Jeff Taylor, TCEcD

 

Fall 2022

  • Medical Expansion Zone - Asset Based Community Development - Helene Singer Cash, TCEcD
  • Growing a Workforce Development Program Amid a Contracting Labor Force, a Pandemic, and Shifting Approaches to Work - Adina Chumley, TCEcD
  • Education & Rehabilitation in ALICE Communities for Workforce Development - Aaron Frazier, TCEcD
  • Serving Customers: Professional Development for Economic Developers - Carol A. Jones, TCEcD
  • The Transformation of a Site to Capitalize on Missed Opportunities - Justin Snow, TCEcD
  • The Value of Technical College Graduates in Tennessee - Scottie McCormick Tudor, TCEcD

Spring 2021

  • Problems Can Lead to Prosperity with a Strategic Plan:  A Collaborative, Targeted Approach to Business Recruitment in Gallatin - Rosemary Bates, TCEcD
  • Leveling Up: Coffee County’s Economic Development Opportunity - Kalee Harryman, TCEcD
  • Repurposing the Madisonville City Industrial Park - Richard Kirkland, TCEcD
  • The Importance of Partnerships: Creating an Economic Impact with Fishing Tournaments - Jennifer Perryman, TCEcD

 

Fall 2021

  • Certified Retirement Communities as Economic Development: Discover Shelby - Find Retirement - Shelli Davis. TCEcD
  • How Strong Career and Technical Education Programs Help Build Rural Workforce - Anne Hosea, TCEcD
  • Determining the Best Quality of Place Assets for a Small Community - Kimber Sharp Ellard, TCEcD
  • Research and Development for a Marketing Plan of PowerCom Industrial Center’s North Campus in Hartsville, TN - Dan Tidcomb, TCEcD
  • The Powell River.  How an Underutilized Natural Asset Helped Spur Community Development and Tourism - Anna Beth Walker, TCEcD
  • Utilizing Revolving Loan Funds to Provide Working Capital and Create Job Growth - Sue Wilson, TCEcD

Spring & Fall 2020

  • The Marketing, Development, and Revitalization of La Vergne, TN in an Evolving Growing, and Competitive Market - Thomas Broeker, TCEcD
  • The Economic Impact of Low Earth Orbit Satellite Broadband Technology on Mountain Communities  - Brandon Chadwick, TCEcD
  • A Review of the Housing and Rental Market in McMinn County and Its Impact on Economic Development - Dana Ferguson, TCEcD
  • Opportunity Zones: Establishing Accountability Through Tools and Partnerships to Meet Community Needs - Dawn Michelle Foster, TCEcD
  • Taking Initiatives to Brand and Develop the City of Fayetteville - Kristi Gentry, TCEcD
  • Overcoming Identity Crisis through Placemaking: Perks and Pitfalls of Being Nashville’s Neighbor - Mary Laine Hucks, TCEcD

Spring 2019

  • The Warren County and Clay County Comprehensive Planning Process - Tommy Lee, TCEcD
  • Should Tennessee Create & Implement a Workforce Training Program Similar to Georgia Quick Start?- Stephanie Watkins, TCEcD
  • The Role of General Contractors in Economic Development - Shari Brown, AICP, TCEcD
  • Nashville Consortium of HBCUs Creating Economic & Community Development Growth - Mary Carpenter , TCEcD
  • "Giving Away the Farm?" Using A Cost/Benefit Approach to Evaluate Local Economic Development Incentives - Jonathon Connell, TCEcD
  • Economic Impact of A Proposed State of Tennessee Historic Tax Credit - Laura Todd, TCEcD

 

Fall 2019

  • Economic Development Strategies for Rural Downtowns: Building upon Tennessee’s Current Success and Resources - Dr. Bridget Jones, TCEcD
  • “Destination Hatchie“-A System of Parks on The Historic Hatchie River - Julian McTizic, TCEcD
  • Asset Based Planning: Leveraging Assets for Economic Growth - Kathy Barber, TCEcD

Spring 2018

  • The Importance of a Joint Economic Community Development Board (JECDB) in Stimulating Growth of a Tier IV Community (Campbell County) - James “Andy” Wallace, TCEcD
  • Using Parks and Natural Resources for Rural Economic Impact - Stephania Motes, TCEcD
  • Recognizing The Priorities Disconnect Between Economic Development Organizations And Elected Officials, Iliff McMahan, Jr., TCEcD
  • Developing a Work Ready Workforce: Closing the Gap, Creating the Path - Mandy Christenson, TCEcD
  • The New Gateway to Tennessee - Sherri Ferguson, TCEcD
  • Refocusing the Education of Youth Into Local Workforce Initiatives - Steve Hilton, TCEcD
  • Potential Site Due Diligence on a (Small) Budget - R. Darrell James, P.E, TCEcD
  • Changing the Perception of Manufacturing to Attract the Next Generation of Workers - Teresa Aikens Jones, TCEcD
  • Grit, Grace, Place:  Enhancing Place with Gallatin’s True Grit and Amazing Grace – Kimberly Baker, TCEcD

 

Fall 2018

  • The Port of Cates Landing: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow - R. Chad Davis, CFP, TCEcD
  • The Impact of Connectivity in Small, Rural Communities - Emily Hunt Johnson, TCEcD
  • Economic Impact of Trained Front Line Supervision in the Recruitment and Retention of Employees - Gordon H. Reed, TCEcD
  • How Dickson County and the City of Dickson Landed Daltile-Mohawk Industries - Bob Rial, TCEcD
  • Dayton Tennessee's Journey to Build a New Industrial Park without a Prospect in Hand - Dennis Ray Tumlin, TCEcD
  • Redevelopment VS New Construction for the Expansion of City Services - Kayce Williams, TCEcD

Spring 2017

  • Should Select Tennessee Expand to Include Investment in Buildings - Leanne Cox, TCEcD
  • The Way Back Up - Stacey Kidd, TCEcD
  • Travel Tourism and Economic Development in Tellico Plains, TN – Gregory Newman, TCEcD
  • Can a Foreign Alliance Center for Tennessee be Self Sustaining in Knoxville – Kathryne Ogrod, TCEcD
  • Strategic Planning In Benton County, TN – Amanda Paschall, TCEcD
  • The Economic Impact of Festivals on Small Towns – Gwen Shelton, TCEcD
  • Issues and Challenges of Local Government Supporting a Development Project of Regional Importance - Barrett M. Stevens, TCEcD
  • Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Tennessee Downtowns Program – Nancy Williams, TCEcD

 

Fall 2017

  • Tennessee’s Downstream Chemicals Cluster - Sally Avery, TCEcD
  • Improving Hawkins County’s Workforce by Becoming a Certified ACT Work Ready Community - Rebecca Baker, TCEcD
  • Establishing a Marketable Identity for the City of Lebanon - Sarah Haston, TCEcD
  • Red Boilings Springs - Honoring our History Understanding our Present and Looking to our Future - Crystal Justice, TCEcD
  • Prepared for Opportunity - Patricia Oldham, TCEcD
  • Business Education as an Economic Development Driver - Mason Worthington, TCEcD

Spring 2016

  • The Making and Marketing of a Competitive Tullahoma Airport Business Airpark – Winston Brooks, TCEcD
  • How Do Economic Development Organizations Measure Their Own Performance – Susan Robinson, TCEcD
  • The Electric Cooperative’s Role in Economic Development – Teresa Sampson, TCEcD

 

Fall 2016

  • Tourism Makes a Splash in Rural East Tennessee – Jody Bauer, TCEcD
  • The Making and Marketing of the Hatchie River Park and Nature CenterMuseum – Shelia Dellinger, TCEcD
  • Creating Community Resilience to Foster Business Resilience in the Tennessee Automotive Supply Chain Cluster – Misty DePriest, TCEcD
  • Developing a Workforce to Meet the Region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy – Mark Farley
  • The Virtual Building – Bryan Hall, TCEcD
  • What Is the Chattanooga Innovation District and What Role Does It Play in Economic Development – Miriam Hamilton, TCEcD
  • Securing a Site for a Publicly Owned Industrial Park – Allen Pitner, TCEcD
  • Working Together for a Stronger Local Economy – Jody Sliger, TCEcD
  • The Success of Public-Private Partnerships in Pigeon Forge – David Taylor, TCEcD

Spring 2015

  • Roadway Infrastructure Improvements and Their Importance – Kenny Martin, TCEcD

 

Fall 2015

  • Analysis of the Comprehensive Economic Development Planning Process as a Strategic Planning Document – Megan Raye Farris, TCEcD
  • A Case-Study of the Tri-County Industrial Park located in Sullivan County, TN – William Kelly Forrester III, TCEcD
  • Improving Industrial Park Readiness in Hamilton County through a Certified Sites Program – Lindsay Hiatt, TCEcD
  • Creating Economic Opportunity in Areas Limited by Zoning – Marie Lisco, TCEcD
  • Robert Creek Landing Golf Course- Rehabilitation and Reinvestment in Ridgeton, Tennessee – Michael P. McClanahan, TCEcD
  • Improving Industrial Readiness Through the Select Tennessee Certified Sites Program in Rural Tennessee – Michelle B. Price, TCEcD
  • Brave New City: Leveraging USDA Grant Funds to Contract with Retail Consultants to Develop a Retail Strategic Plan – C. Seth Sumner, TCEcD

Fall 2014

  • Revitalizing Rural Tennessee's ECD Efforts – Amy New, TCEcD
  • Role of Universities in ECD-UTM and City of Martin – Brad Thompson, TCEcD 
  • Creating an Economic Opportunity for an Economically Depressed City with a Vacant Industrial Park – Darrell Williams, TCEcD
  • Lewisburg Takes the Silver – Greg Lowe, TCEcD
  • The Renaissance of Downtown White Bluff – Jeff Martin, TCEcD
  • Brushy Mountain Distillery – Lisa Rutherford, TCEcD
  • Aviation Park I – Mark Canty, TCEcD
  • The Digital Hub, Job Development in Wayne County – Rena Purdy, TCEcD
  • The Revolving Loan Program – Wallace Austin, TCEcD

TCED Courses

2026 Course Schedule 


To begin the TCED program, simply choose a course and register.

TCED Testimonials

Required for TCED Certification

Core Courses

The TBEDC class at a Nashville Predators game.

Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course (TBEDC)

The Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course (TBEDC) is a four-day comprehensive course, accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), focuses on the fundamental concepts, tools and practices needed to be successful in today's complex economic environment.

TBEDC is considered the anchor course for the certification program; however, it is not a prerequisite to other course offerings, as courses may be taken in any order.

>> Read More & Register

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TN Business Retention & Expansion

This course focuses on developing, implementing and evaluating an effective retention and expansion program. Course topics include promoting existing businesses, addressing sudden and unexpected losses of major employers, and the importance of retooling both the workplace and workforce.

>> Read More & Register

Helen's BBQ restaurant in Brownsville, TN.

TN Entrepreneurship & Small Business Development

This course explores the economic impact of small businesses on local and regional economies; the needs of entrepreneurs and small businesses and available resources to assist them; and effective networks and strategies to support entrepreneurship and small business development.

>> Read More & Register

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TN Marketing & Attraction

This hands-on course covers the basics of developing and implementing a high-impact marketing and attraction plan. While this course emphasizes business attraction, new business development, existing business and community development are included as a part of a comprehensive approach.

>> Read More & Register

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TN Managing Economic Development

This course focuses on building an effective economic development organization at local, state and regional levels. Topics include examining organizational models, measuring performance, management approaches, roles of key leaders, stakeholder relations, navigating the political environment, board management, media relations, communications strategies and strategic planning.

>> Read More & Register

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TN Basic Economic Development Finance

This course focuses on the variety of development finance tools available in Tennessee, from bonds, tax credits, PILOT and TIF, to federal financing programs, revolving loan funds and access to capital lending resources. Through case studies, course participants will explore the pros and cons of utilizing the various tools in the economic development finance toolbox.  

>> Read More & Register

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TN Workforce Development

This course is designed to help economic development practitioners, government officials and other community leaders at state, regional and local levels understand best practices, available resources and partnership approaches to building a competitive workforce.

>> Read More & Register

Two-Day Courses

Elective Courses

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Nuclear 101 for Economic Developers: Tennessee's Next Big Opportunity

This TCED elective course, offered in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD), provides a clear, accessible introduction to the industry — including its history, modern applications, statewide opportunities and ways your community can be a part of the ecosystem.

>> Read More & Register

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TN Economic Resiliency

This interactive elective course will spotlight real life “cause and effect” case studies presented and dissected by leading economic development practitioners and resiliency experts. Topics include defining disasters, crisis mitigation, resiliency strategies, lessons learned and resiliency resources. 

>> Read More & Register

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TN Retail Development

This course helps participants understand what retailers are really looking for and how to position their community competitively. Participants learn to read retail trends, identify genuine market gaps and build recruitment strategies grounded in data.

>> Read More & Register

TN Economic Development Advanced Finance

Moving beyond the fundamentals, this course equips participants with the tools that close deals and fund transformations: PILOTs, TIF structures, industrial revenue bonds, revolving loan funds and federal programs, including Opportunity Zones.

>> Read More & Register

One-Day Courses

Elective Courses

AI & Cybersecurity

>> Read More & Register

The Art of Effective Economic Development Facilitation

>> Read More & Register

Delivering Exceptional Customer Service

>> Read More & Register

Proposing to Win

>> Read More & Register

Telling Your Community's Story

>> Read More & Register

Deep Dive on TIFs & Pilots

>> Read More & Register

Mastering Data & AI for Strategic Economic Development Impact

>> Read More & Register

"The courses offered through [UT CIS] have made a huge impact on my career. The knowledge and materials provided have been instrumental in my day-to-day in working with my counties...I highly recommend this program."

- Bryan Hall, Executive Director, Tellico Reservoir Development Agency, Vonore, TN

Philip Trauernicht Memorial Scholarship

Introducing a New Generation to Economic Development in Tennessee

Philip Trauernicht Memorial Scholarship

The Philip Trauernicht Memorial Scholarship for Rural Leaders enhances the development of rural leadership through scholarship support to the Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course (TBEDC).

About Phillip Trauernicht

The Philip Trauernicht Annual Scholarship was created in memoriam of Philip Trauernicht. A native Tennessean, Philip spent three decades dedicating his career to economic and community development throughout Tennessee. His service and dedication supported the creation of thousands of jobs and millions of dollars of investment across the state’s 95 counties. He worked closely with communities and industry to get much needed resources to rural and distressed areas of Tennessee.

He was known for his unwavering fairness, honesty, wry sense of humor and willingness to mentor, especially those new to economic development. Philip was a true servant of the people, and he is greatly missed by all who knew him.

Informed and innovative leadership in a community is critical to it achieving economic vitality. We know rural communities in Tennessee face unique challenges and require leaders who understand the building blocks of economic and community development and are able to work collaboratively to leverage the strengths and assets of their community to improve the quality of life for all residents.

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About the Scholarship

This scholarship provides full tuition to attend the annual Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course (TBEDC) and up to four nights’ lodging during the course. The award value per annual scholarship is approximately $1,800. The recipient will be required to pay a $100 processing fee upon the acceptance of the reward. The fee is non-refundable should a recipient withdrawal from the course.

The scholarship is now endowed so it will exist in perpetuity. The agreement for the endowment is by and between the Tennessee Economic Development Council and the University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. (Foundation). The Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation in the State of Tennessee. The creation of an endowment by a nonprofit protects charitable dollars as it receives prudent stewardship, while providing a lasting source of income for the scholarship.

 

TBECD Conference

Criteria for Award Selection

Preference will be given to scholarship applicants who meet the following criteria:

  • Applicants who are engaged in the practice of economic and community development in rural counties or regions in Tennessee
  • Applicants with limited resources to support professional development training and who would be unable to attend the TBEDC without scholarship support
  • Applicants who are new to the practice of economic and community development and who have less than five years of work experience in the profession
  • Applicants who demonstrate a passion and commitment to applying the knowledge gained through attending the TBEDC to advance rural development in Tennessee
  • Applicants who are members of the Tennessee Economic Development Council or will commit to TEDC membership after completing TBEDC (Note: TEDC provides a complimentary one-year membership for TBEDC graduates.)

This scholarship is open to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizen, disability, age, or veteran status.

TBEDC Conference

Submission and Timeline

Please see the TBEDC course page for scholarship application deadlines.

Submit application materials and direct questions to Tintin Czach at (615) 532-4922 or tintin@tennessee.edu

Download the Application

- DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION -
TDBEC Conf

Donors

Special thanks to Philip's family, colleagues and the donors who have made the Philip Trauernicht Memorial Scholarship for Rural Leaders possible.

Donate to the Scholarship

- MAKE A DONATION -

Made in Tennessee

Supporting Tennessee's Manufacturers

The Made in Tennessee program celebrates and strengthens the state’s manufacturing community by raising awareness of Tennessee-made products and the people behind them. We provide resources that help manufacturers grow and thrive, supporting economic opportunity in communities of every size.

Made in Tennessee is a no-cost membership program that gives registered manufacturers an online profile in a statewide directory, along with exposure through website and social media spotlights. The directory connects buyers with Tennessee manufacturers, making it easier to source locally and strengthen supply chains. Members also proudly display the Made in Tennessee logo to show that their products are made right here in Tennessee.

Buyers, businesses and individuals can use the directory to explore Tennessee member companies and the wide range of products they manufacture.

Economic Importance

Manufacturing is a cornerstone of Tennessee’s economy, driving innovation, investment and job growth. The state’s manufacturing strength reflects the skill of its workforce, the resilience of its companies and its ongoing commitment to high-quality production.

 

Visit Made in Tennessee
Made in Tennessee logo
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Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee logo over a manufacturing photo

The Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee 

The Coolest Thing Made in Tennessee competition aims to highlight the state’s vibrant manufacturing industry.

The contest not only brings attention to all the cool things made in Tennessee, but also the outstanding career opportunities available in manufacturing—an industry that employs one in eight people in the state and contributes over $62 billion to the economy!

See the Coolest Thing

Workforce Development

Our team offers a comprehensive suite of workforce development programs to promote economic development across the state.

We assist workforce development organizations, community leaders and businesses in identifying assets, building capacity and adhering to best practices through professional development and technical assistance.  

Explore professional development training, strategic planning, board certification, internal development strategies and more. 

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A woman with a microphone speaks from a panel of guest speakers.

Tennessee Workforce Development Academy

Equipping Tennessee's leaders with the skills to strengthen the workforce and grow the economy.

This program is for workforce development professionals, business, and HR leaders, community leaders, and economic development practioners.

Read More and Register
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Workforce Board Assessment & Certification

This assessment-based program supports high performing boards by identifying strengths, opportunities for improvement, professional development options and best practices.

Read More

About the Economic Development Program

Comprehensive Strategies for Economic Development

UT CIS delivers comprehensive economic and workforce development strategies designed to help communities be more resilient and better prepare for economic growth.

Through the TCED Program, TNWFD Academy, and board assessment and certification, UT CIS equips leaders with the tools, research access and professional development training to strengthen local economies and improve competitiveness.

UT CIS also offers technical assistance that supports organizations in enhancing productivity, navigating regulations and improving overall performance. By connecting businesses and communities to University of Tennessee expertise, UT CIS helps drive job creation, workforce readiness and economic resilience.

TCED Program


The Tennessee Certified Economic Developer (TCED) Program engages partnerships across the state to deliver comprehensive training in the principles and practices of economic development.   

Visit the TCED Program
Julian McTizic and Kim Denton.
A smiling woman sits in a small group talking with others at a conference.

Workforce Development Academy


The Tennessee Workforce Development Academy launched in February 2025 and helps economic and workforce development professionals bridge the gap between economic and workforce development.  

Join the Academy

Made in Tennessee


The Made in Tennessee Program highlights and celebrates manufacturing by giving Tennessee manufacturers an opportunity to promote the products they make.

Visit Made in TN
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Economic Development Administration Connections

EDA University Center

As a formerly funded University Center with the U.S. Economic Development Administration, we are proud to focus on three main objectives: 

  • Cultivate regional innovation capacity 
  • Help companies innovate and expand
  • Advance entrepreneurship and technology commercialization. 


This strategic government-university partnership unites academic professionals with local businesses and companies who need their expertise most. Learn more about how the University of Tennessee University Center operates.

Economic Development Association University Center logo over the Knoxville skyline
More Resources

Related Services

Optimized People Development System

Optimized People Development System

Visit OPDS
Tennessee Manufacturing Extension Partnership

Tennessee Manufacturing Extension Partnership

Visit TMEP
APEX Accelerator Government Contracting Support

APEX Accelerator Government Contracting Support

Visit APEX Accelerator
Volunteer State OSHA Training Institute

Volunteer State OSHA Training Institute

Visit the OSHA Training Institute

Tennessee Certified Economic Developer Program

 

The Tennessee Certified Economic Developer (TCED) Program provides high-quality training, continuing education and professional development opportunities. The program supports Tennessee's economic and community development practitioners, community leaders and elected officials. 

The TCED Program offers broad knowledge of economic opportunities, trends, core components and tools required to compete in today’s global economy, with a focus on economic development in Tennessee. 

Participants gain practical expertise and build a network of peers who understand the challenges and opportunities of economic development work. 

Are you ready? Join the leaders transforming Tennessee together! 


View TCED Courses

Get Started


Contact Tintin Czach to begin your journey.

Certification Requirements

The TCED Program offers 92 hours of economic development coursework across the state, providing economic developers with the tools to build stronger communities.

The Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course (TBEDC), an International Economic Development Council-accredited (IEDC) 24-hour course, is the anchor course for the certification program. It is not a prerequisite to other course offerings, and courses may be taken in any order.

To earn the TCED designation, participants must complete the following:

•Tennessee Basic Economic Development Course (TBEDC): 24 hours

•Six core courses: 10 hours each (60 total hours)

•Elective coursework: eight hours*

•Capstone project: including a written report and oral presentation

*Elective options vary based on emerging industry trends and community needs.

Participants are encouraged to complete all TCED core coursework within 2 to 2.5 years.

The TCED Program allows substitution of other IEDC-accredited Basic Economic Development courses in place of TBEDC. Additionally, up to two of the six core courses may be substituted with IEDC-equivalent courses, provided the courses were completed within three years of beginning TCED coursework. Participants must submit proof of completion to the TCED program director for approval.

Timeline: Most capstone projects are completed in two to six months. Candidates must complete the capstone project within two years after finishing their last core coursework.

UT Graduate Credit Opportunities

TCED graduates may be eligible for graduate credit opportunities with UT Chattanooga and the UT Knoxville-Baker School Master of Public Administration programs. Eligibility requirements apply.

UT Chattanooga - https://www.utc.edu/arts-and-sciences/political-science-and-public-service/graduate-studies/prospective-mpa-students

UT Knoxville - https://baker.utk.edu/graduate/

 

TCEcD Designation

Tennessee Certified Economic Developers (TCEcD) are recognized across the state as having reached excellence in their understanding of the principles and practices of economic development. 

Participants who complete all TCED program and certification requirements are awarded the TCEcD designation. Learn more about the certification process and requirements.

Learn More About Certification
Explore TCED Courses

Explore TCED Courses

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Get Certified

Get Certified

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Scholarship Opportunities

Scholarship Opportunities

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TCED Alumni Group

TCED Alumni Group

The TCED alumni group brings together Program graduates who share a passion for serving and strengthening our communities.

Connect through professional development and networking opportunities.

To learn more, contact Tintin Czach @ tintin@tennessee.com

Join the Alumni Group

TCED Partners

TCED Program partner logos.

The TCED program provides both new and seasoned economic development professionals with valuable resources through practical information, best practices, knowledgeable subject matter experts and a supportive peer network. The TCED program was a great experience for me!

- Marie Lisco, Senior Development Manager, JLL.

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