Name: Jonathan Smith, CEcD

Position: Executive Director

Organization: Yakima County Development Association

Years In Economic Development: 17 years

Years As A Member of IEDC: 5 years

What is a podcast or book you recommend?

Thinking, Fast and Slow,  by Daniel Kahneman.

What was the first IEDC event you attended?

The very first Workforce Development class IEDC offered. It was a brand new manual!

Why did you choose to join IEDC?

Professional Development and Certification.

How has being a member of IEDC benefitted you and/or your organization?

Knowledge about programs, tools, policies, and resources that I can bring to use for my community. Plus, great networking with other professionals to who I can reach out for advice and insight. 

What IEDC event do you look forward to attending each year? Why?

Annual Conference. 

Is there a project your organization is currently working on that you are excited about?

We just hired a Bilingual Small Business Support Specialist that is working with our minority business community.

How has your organization adapted to support your community and/or clients during the pandemic?

YCDA administered over $12 million in small business COVID relief grants to 1,400+ small businesses and nonprofits.

What is something you and/or your organization have accomplished this year that you are most proud of?

We partnered with our Workforce Council and the local chapter of SHRM (HR Professional Association) to produce a Wage and Benefit Survey for the manufacturing, food processing, warehouse, and packing businesses in our area. 

What are some ways you hope you and your organization can continue to support your community and/or clients?

We are in the planning phase of developing a co-working space and also launching an Ag-Tech Summit to help attract talent to our community.

Coffee or Tea?

Coca-Cola Slurpees from 7-11.

Audio Book or Podcast?

Audio Book - I listen to two or three a month.

Favorite Movie?

It's a Wonderful Life.

Favorite Book?

Watership Down.

Night out or Night In?

Night out camping or exploring the wilderness.

Dress-shoes or Sneakers?

Sneakers.

What is something you like to do in your free time?

Activities with my family whether it's 3-D printing with my STEM oriented eldest son, visiting Army Surplus stores with my JROTC enthusiast middle son, or fishing and canoeing with my youngest son. Plus, every now and then, me and my wife get a chance to go for a hike in the woods or down by the river..