Pat Topping, Senior Vice President of Macon Economic Development Commission has been awarded recertification by the International Economic Development Council effective September 30, 2015.  Topping first achieved the Certified Economic Developer designation in 2003. CEcD recertification, required every three years, was awarded to Topping after meeting demanding requirements for continuing education and service to the profession.  In his 24 years of economic development experience, Topping has served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Georgia Economic Developers Association, as Georgia’s State Director to the Southern Economic Development Council, the oldest and largest regional economic development association in North America and on the Boards of numerous industry organizations.

In his economic development career, Topping has been part of teams responsible for creating over 7,200 jobs, located or assisted with expansions of 92 companies with investment of over $1.5 billion.

The designation of Certified Economic Developer is a highly recognized national designation that denotes a mastery of principal skills in economic development, professional attainment and a commitment to professional growth.  Topping first earned certification by passing a rigorous three-part, two-day examination, testing his knowledge, proficiency and judgement in the key areas of economic development.

As highly skilled economic development practitioners, Topping and over 1,000 other Certified Economic Developers work with public officials, business leaders and community members to create and retain high-quality jobs, establish economic vibrancy, and improve quality of life for the people they serve.