We are thrilled and proud to share that two GPEC senior vice presidents have been selected as honorees of the economic development profession’s 40 Under 40 award, presented by Development Counsellors International (DCI).

GPEC SVPs win 40 under 40 award in economic development

Published: 01/28/2019
Updated: 10/09/2019

After over 170 nominations, six judges were on the search for the most innovative, impactful young economic developers around the globe.

We are thrilled and proud to share that two GPEC senior vice presidents have been selected as honorees of the economic development profession’s 40 Under 40 award, presented by Development Counsellors International (DCI).

An independent five-member selection committee chose the winners from a pool of more than 170 qualified candidates based on their exceptional accomplishments and contributions to the economic development industry.

“The awardees this year embodied passion for the profession and a commitment to excellence, innovation and place-making,” said Chris Camacho, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council and 40 Under 40 selection committee member. “The field of economic development is evolving and we’re seeing many people rise up to assure this profession is on the edge and inclusive. Congrats to the new class of 40 Under 40.”

Learn more about our awardees:

Mitchel Allen, Senior Vice President, Business Development

We are thrilled and proud to share that two GPEC senior vice presidents have been selected as honorees of the economic development profession’s 40 Under 40 award, presented by Development Counsellors International (DCI).

What do you enjoy most about working in economic development?
I love learning about different industries as I assist companies in their expansion efforts but I also love seeing the impact those companies make within the community.

If you could pick one word to embody the impact of economic development, what would it be?
Not one word, but being a change agent within the community.

Stephane Frijia, Senior Vice President, Strategy & Research

We are thrilled and proud to share that two GPEC senior vice presidents have been selected as honorees of the economic development profession’s 40 Under 40 award, presented by Development Counsellors International (DCI).

What do you enjoy most about working in economic development?
I love the opportunity to work on project and strategic initiatives that have the potential to impact and shape the future trajectory of the region and make it a better place to live for generations to come.

If you could pick one word to embody the impact of economic development, what would it be?
Future. True economic development is about laying the foundation for what our community will be. What we do today will continues to have impacts 20+ years for now.

Congratulations to all the honorees! Meet the rest of them here.