Jonathan Cooper, community and economic development specialist at the Bennington County Regional Commission, has earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer from the International Economic Development Council. The recognition denotes a mastery of principal skills in economic development, professional attainment and a commitment to personal and professional growth. IEDC certification is one of the highest benchmarks of professional competence a practicing economic developer can attain.
Candidates must pass a rigorous and comprehensive three-part, two-day examination, which tests a practitioner's knowledge, proficiency and judgment in the key areas of economic development. On average, only 30% of the candidates pass the exams, and only 10% pass on their first attempt. Cooper successfully passed all three exams on his first try
“Jonathan has worked tirelessly to learn and implement the tools and practices of community and economic development,” said Jim Sullivan, executive director of BCRC. “Jonathan’s commitment to this effort, resulting in this esteemed certification, offers countless benefits to our regional businesses, municipalities and to the BCRC.”