EDAA Young Professionals Explore Calhoun County’s Industrial Sector and Community Growth during Market Tour

Pictured from Left to Right: (Back Row) Joey Iverson, Nick Shaver, Synclair Goyer, Marley Schmid, Lucas Gockel, Hunter Gentry, Sheri Rollins, Don Hopper, Tim Holley. (Front Row) Laurel Harp, Alexus Clayton, Tatianna Turrentine-Long, Carissa Cratyon-Sabo, Kristen Key

October 20th, 2025

Calhoun County recently welcomed a group of young professionals in economic development from across the state for an EDAA Young Professionals Market Tour, an event designed to showcase the area’s thriving industrial sector, workforce initiatives, and community vitality.

The Calhoun County Economic Development Council (EDC) hosted state-level project managers, regional partners, and local developers over the course of two days, providing a firsthand look at how collaboration and partnerships have powered growth and positioned Calhoun County as a strong competitor for new business. The market tour served as both an educational experience and a celebration of Calhoun County’s continued momentum, featuring interactive tours, networking opportunities, and conversations centered on quality of place.

“Hosting the EDAA YP Market Tour was a great opportunity to visit with the rising leaders in economic development,” said Don Hopper, Executive Director of the Calhoun County EDC. “Calhoun County is built on relationships, and these young professionals represent the future of our state’s growth. We are thankful to have been able to share Calhoun County’s industries and community strengths with them.”

Two long-standing industrial partners of the EDC, Associated Metalcast and New Flyer of America, proudly opened their doors for the market tour on Wednesday, offering an inside look at innovation and precision through their advanced manufacturing processes. Both facilities demonstrate the use of automation and computer-aided design techniques, emphasizing efficiencies. From high-quality CNC operations to cutting-edge production of full-size transit buses, these industries play a vital role in shaping the overall economy. Beyond their operations, Associated Metalcast and New Flyer of America are deeply invested in the community, supporting local workforce development initiatives and partnerships with area schools and training centers.

Vice President of Operations at Associated Metalcast, Jon Douglas, shared that “AMI is proud to partner with the Calhoun County Economic Development Council to support the EDAA Young Professionals Market Tour. Opportunities like this allow us to showcase the strength of our region’s manufacturing community and inspire the next generation of leaders who will continue driving growth and innovation here in Alabama.”

Day two began with a walk-through of CREATE, a Regional Workforce Center that supports students and adults in the East Alabama Region. “CREATE was excited to be selected as a stop on the EDAA Young Professionals market tour. It’s important that Calhoun County ensures we are building relationships with future leaders of the state of Alabama. The EDAA Young Professionals organization is a crucial step to connecting those at the beginning of their career to the communities behind the names and faces that support economic development efforts at the local level,” said CREATE Director Lorie Denton.

The market tour concluded with a “Quality of Place” panel at CREATE, highlighting Calhoun County’s cultural assets, outdoor recreation, and public spaces that help shape the region’s identity and appeal. Panelists mentioned how investments in amenities such as the Chief Ladiga Trail, Main Streets, and local green spaces serve as powerful tools for attracting and retaining families and young professionals. The conversation encouraged emerging leaders in economic development to champion these types of projects in their own regions, recognizing that quality of place is just as essential to economic vitality as workforce and infrastructure.

The EDAA Young Professionals Market Tour is part of the Economic Development Association of Alabama’s statewide initiative to connect and equip young talent in economic development. Jacqueline Chandler, EDAA YP Committee Chair, mentions "We are grateful to the Calhoun County EDC and community leadership for hosting the EDAA young professionals. These tours serve as a meaningful gathering for young professionals across the state who share a mission of building communities and creates the opportunity for them to learn best practices and connect with their peers." By bringing together professionals from across Alabama, the program fosters collaboration, builds regional understanding, and strengthens the next generation of leadership, driving economic growth.

Additional Quotes: 

“I’m grateful to the Calhoun County EDC for the opportunity to speak on the Quality of Place panel and discuss how downtown revitalization continues to shape and strengthen our community." – Hunter Gentry, Director of Historic Main Street for the City of Oxford.

“Trails and outdoor recreation spaces are a key component of a healthy and thriving community, which is the foundation of economic growth. I’m grateful that the EDAA is engaged in this important work.” – Dr. Tim Lindblom, Dean of College of Science and Mathematics at Jacksonville State University.