The Women in Economic Development session at IEDC’s Annual Conference stood out as a powerful testament to the strength, resilience, and leadership of women in the field. Expertly moderated by Julie Curtin, president of economic development for Development Counsellors International (DCI) and IEDC board member, the panel created an intimate and supportive atmosphere where speakers and attendees alike shared their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. 

The session focused on empowering women to lead boldly and fearlessly while addressing the unique issues faced by women and mothers in economic development. Tracye McDaniel, FM, HLM, president of TIP Strategies and former IEDC board chair, set the tone with an important reminder: "Everything is negotiable." She pointed out that women often leave thousands of dollars in salary and benefits on the table simply because they're too grateful to receive a job offer. McDaniel's message was clear: Know your worth and don't be afraid to negotiate. 

Maria Satira, director of marketing and communications for Greenville–Eastern North Carolina Alliance, shared her inspiring journey of transitioning into economic development as she sought a career that aligned with her passions and allowed her to balance work and family life. Her experience highlighted that economic development can be a viable and fulfilling career path for women with young families. Satira's advice was unequivocal: If your employer isn't supportive of your family or doesn't offer flexibility, it's time to find a new opportunity. 

St. Tammany (La.) Corporation vice president Ashley Llewelyn's story underscored the importance of supportive leadership in fostering professional growth. She spoke about having a boss who believed in her abilities, sometimes more than she believed in herself. This support has been instrumental in boosting her confidence and advancing her career, highlighting the positive impact of mentorship and encouragement in the workplace. 

IEDC board chair Dr. Eloisa Klementich, CEcD, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, shared a touching tip for staying motivated in the face of challenges: she keeps a drawer filled with thank-you notes as an ever-present reminder of the impact and importance of her work. This powerful technique exemplifies how simple habits can sustain passion and drive in a demanding field. 

Throughout the session, the relaxed and intimate atmosphere fostered open dialogue. The audience of women and their allies were encouraged to share their experiences as well, creating a tapestry of wisdom and mutual support. The discussion touched on both the highs and lows of being a woman in economic development, with a focus on uplifting and empowering one another through all experiences. 

The session did more than just highlight challenges faced by women in economic development—it celebrated women’s strengths, showcased their resilience, and provided practical advice for thriving in the field. By creating a space for open dialogue and mutual support, the panel reinforced the idea that women are indeed everyday superheroes, balancing multiple roles and making significant impacts in their communities and beyond. 

As the economic development landscape continues to evolve, creating spaces for women is crucial for fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and growth. These spaces serve as a reminder that diversity in leadership enriches the entire profession with varied perspectives and innovative approaches.