For Immediate Release Contact:  Erin Way, Media Relations
October 19, 2008 (202) 942-9474, eway@iedconline.org

Regional Development Corporation to receive honorable MENTION at economic development conference

Santa Fe, NM-based Organization Recognized for Sustainable Development Initiative

Acknowledging the Regional Development Corporation (RDC) for its sustainable development initiative, the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) will recognize the Santa Fe, New Mexico-based entity with an Honorable Mention at IEDC's Annual Conference, which is scheduled to take place in Atlanta, Georgia, October 19-22. The organization will be noticed for this achievement during an awards ceremony on Tuesday, October 21st. 
 "Economic development efforts have long been a keystone in the quest to bolster the economy and improve quality of life in every locality across the country," said Robin Roberts Krieger, IEDC chair. "As the nation continues to tackle longstanding challenges in the midst of an inhospitable financial climate, these efforts have taken on an even greater significance. With the award, we laud trendsetting organizations like the Regional Development Corporation for leading the charge."

Competing in the category of Sustainable and Green Development by organizations serving areas with populations exceeding 200,000, RDC was a clear standout. RDC developed a Renewable Energy Program (REP) to address both environmental and economic concerns in Northern New Mexico. Serving as a clearinghouse for clean energy projects, REP creates strategic partnerships between the private and public sectors to enable more clean energy projects. REP identifies new or existing wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, and other clean energy opportunities throughout New Mexico and works with the local communities to implement their clean energy projects. RDC responded to a growing need within the wind energy industry for qualified wind energy technicians by helping develop the North American Wind Research & Training Center (NAWRTC) at Mesalands Community College in Tucumcari, New Mexico. 

A collaborative effort between REP, Mesalands Community College, New Mexico State University, Florida Power & Light, Sandia National Labs, and Governor Richardson's administration, NAWRTC is designed to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree in Wind Energy, customized industry training for wind energy technicians, and R&D for operations and maintenance issues related to wind farm operations. The NAWRTC is also establishing important relationships with surrounding school districts, enabling students in science classes to learn about the value of wind energy as a contribution to the nation's energy challenges and as a source of employment within a rapidly growing industry.

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is headquartered in Washington, DC. Its mission is to provide leadership and excellence in economic development for communities, members and partners. IEDC's professional economic development awards annually recognize excellence in the economic development profession.
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