DT #596 Navigating IEDC's 2026 Course Catalog: What's New and What's Next

Develop This: Economic and Community Development

🎧 Episode Summary

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Lynn Kreach, Learning & Development Associate with the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), to explore the evolving world of professional development in economic development.

From IEDC's new 2026 course catalog to the rise of virtual training and the importance of certification and continuous learning, Lynn shares a behind-the-scenes look at how IEDC equips professionals with the tools, skills, and confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing field.

The conversation covers how courses are designed for immediate, real-world application, the impact of networking and peer learning, and how becoming an IEDC instructor can be a natural next step in leadership. Whether you're a new practitioner or a seasoned pro, this episode will inspire you to take charge of your learning journey.

💡 Key Takeaways

• IEDC provides a complete pathway for economic developers at every stage of their careers.
• Courses focus on practical application—tools and strategies you can use the next day.
• Networking remains a cornerstone of professional growth and knowledge sharing.
• Certification pathways are built around IEDC's core competencies.
• Partnerships enrich the learning experience and expand access to expertise.
• Virtual learning requires new engagement strategies—and IEDC is leading the way.
• Instructors bring real-world experience and case studies to life in the classroom.
• Continuous learning keeps professionals ahead in a dynamic, fast-evolving field.
• Emerging trends include skills-first hiring and greater use of data-driven insights.
• The best time to plan your professional development? Right now.