Laredo, TX – (August 28, 2024) – Justin L. Heather earned the nationally recognized designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), denoting a mastery of skills in economic development and a dedication to personal and professional growth. This milestone marks a significant achievement and underscores Justin’s commitment to excellence in the field of economic development.
Justin is an accomplished legal and economic development professional with extensive experience in both in-house and law firm environments. Currently serving as Deputy General Counsel for Killam Development, Ltd., Justin provides strategic legal advice to a diverse portfolio of family-owned businesses in oil and gas, real estate, construction, ranching, and media. Justin is an active member of the Laredo community, serving as Chair of the Business Improvement District (BID), Vice Chair of Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) #1, a member of the Board of Directors of Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC), and incoming member of the Board of Directors of the Laredo Chamber of Commerce. With a strong background in economic development, Justin has led business development and retention initiatives and supported infrastructure and workforce growth. He holds a J.D. from Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law (cum laude) and an A.B. in Government and History from Dartmouth College.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation,” said Justin L. Heather. “This certification underscores my commitment to advancing economic development initiatives that promote sustainable growth and empower communities. I am excited to continue working with business leaders, public officials, and community members to create lasting economic opportunities that benefit everyone.”
The CEcD designation is a prestigious acknowledgement of skilled and committed professionals in the field of economic development, establishing a benchmark of excellence within the industry. To attain this designation, candidates must successfully complete a rigorous and comprehensive examination, consisting of three parts and spanning two days. This examination assesses a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency, judgement, and critical thinking abilities among the following areas of economic development:
• Business retention and expansion
• Finance & credit analysis
• Marketing and attraction
• Strategic planning
• Entrepreneurial & small business development
• Managing economic development organizations
• Neighborhood development strategies
• Real estate development & reuse
• Technology-led economic development
• Workforce development strategies
• Foreign direct investment & exporting
Certified Economic Developers operate as highly skilled economic development professionals and collaborate with public officials, business leaders, and community members to establish astute leadership and serve as a driving force in the economic development landscape. Their commitment to excellence translates into a profound impact on well-being, elevating the quality of life, and unlocking a myriad of opportunities for individuals, businesses, and communities alike.
Justin is one of over 1,250 active CEcDs throughout the world.
About Killam Development
Killam Development is a premier real estate development company dedicated to creating vibrant communities in South Texas. With a legacy of excellence spanning over 100 years, The Killam Family and organization specialize in master-planned communities, commercial properties, and developments that prioritize quality and innovation. For additional information about Killam Development and our portfolio, visit www.killamdevelopment.com.
About the International Economic Development Council
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With more than 4,300 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth and provide a stable tax base. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, IEDC’s members engage in the full range of economic development practices. Given the breadth of economic development work, our members are employed in various settings, including local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and a variety of other institutions. When we succeed, our members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions. Learn more at iedconline.org.
