Krista Rodgers
Marketing and Communications Manager
Henrico EDA
Henrico, VA

How long have you worked in economic development?

1 year

How did you enter the economic development profession?

I like to say, "it found me," because it's true!

What is your favorite thing about working in economic development?

It's evolution is lightning fast!

Tell us about the community or organization you represent.

Henrico is a diverse community in the greater Richmond area with the greatest Internet infrastructure on the planet, a robust and dynamic business climate, AAA bond rated community that is looking to the future in projects like GreenCity, Virginia Center Commons, White Oak Technology Park, and Innsbrook Tech Park as models of development and placemaking and redevelopment projects that represent what the future of work and life looks like.

What makes your community a great place for business and people to thrive? If you don’t represent a community, how do you help economic development organizations succeed?

There are more than 330,000 residents who are choosing to live in Henrico to live their best, and that number is expected to surge by 26.4% in the next 30 years. Top talent is falling in love with Henrico because word has spread that the cost of living is low (2.5% below the national average!) and the quality of life is high. In fact, the neighborhoods of Innsbrook and Short Pump were recognized as two of the Top 50 Best Places to Live in America.

Choose from a large pool of prospective recruits who are enjoying every moment. They’re excited about our commitment to creating thriving mixed-use communities, dedication to inclusion, and our focus on placemaking. Put simply, Henrico is a premier location to attract and retain the fulfilled workforce needed to advance your success. Because wherever you live, everywhere you look, there is always something fun to do in Henrico.

See what makes Henrico so special: Henrico EDA | Why Henrico | Qualityoflife

Tell us about your favorite place/thing to do in your community.

I LOVE our library system. We just release a video about it today, as a matter of fact! View the video here!

If you had a message to those considering a career in economic development, what would it be and why should they enter the field?

If you enjoy being on the forefront of the change in your community, to give your heart and your service to it, to find out all the great things about it and shout it from the rooftops, this job's for you.

Share your favorite quote or the best piece of advice that has helped to guide your professional development.

Follow where your interest guides you. That's where you're going to make the most impact.