RASHARD HOWARD - INTENSIVE ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT September 2024

Jennifer Ryan

As GEDI celebrates its 40th class of the Intensive Economic Development Training Course, we have been chatting with some of our course alumni to learn where they are now and how their participation in the program has impacted their professional careers.

Rashard Howard currently serves as the Business Development Director for CSX. Mr. Howard is a graduate of Intensive Class 2015.

Q & A with Rashard

Job while attending the Intensive Program?

• Business Development Manager with CSX

Career highlights since graduating Intensive?

• Since graduating from the Intensive program in 2015, I have been able to play a pivotal role as an economic development logistics lead, acquiring over $15 billion of capital investment and creating 13,000+ jobs in key projects within my territory. Notable projects I have led include Novelis in Baldwin County, AL; James Hardie in Prattville, AL; Georgia Pacific in Talladega, AL and Jackson, TN; Wayne Farms in Newton, AL; Montgomery Inland Port in Montgomery, AL; Diageo Beverages in Montgomery, AL; Ford Motor Company in Stanton, TN; and Enviva Biomass in Pascagoula, MS. Additionally, I am a proud graduate of the Leadership Alabama Class XXXII.

Favorite thing about the Intensive course?

• One of the things I enjoyed the most about the program was understanding from a strategic level how all of the allies work together at various levels, including the C-Suite, government, local economic development agencies, real estate brokers, site consultant professionals, leading utility companies, and transportation partners to achieve the same goal - winning the project for the community to create jobs and opportunities.

Biggest lesson you learned through Intensive?

• The cultivation of meaningful relationships is essential in expediting various processes and achieving a positive impact for everyone involved.

Are you still in contact with people you met through Intensive?

• I collaborate with my classmates on a daily basis in various capacities, and it's evident that many of us have taken on additional responsibilities in our professional lives. The trust and rapport established in this program provide a great sense of comfort, as it underscores the knowledge base we rely on to successfully navigate and close deals.

What would you tell someone who is considering going through Intensive but not sure if they can make the time or financial commitment?

• It is essential to go through this program if you are looking to expedite your knowledge base and build relationships in the economic development space and become a true subject matter expert. The classes provide you with real case studies to learn from and a platform to build the necessary knowledge to be successful and achieve your goals.
  
  The Auburn Intensive Economic Development Program is one of the best places to enhance your knowledge of industrial development. The classes are practical, and you have the opportunity to learn from seasoned industry veterans. This program helped me shorten my learning curve when I was new to economic development, and I have had a successful career thus far as a result.