Response: Broader Lessons from Visser and Wright's Research on Professional Education in Economic Development

Abstract

Universities and national professional associations have increased attention to professional education and training of economic developers. Visser and Wright s research provides useful insights into this arena. Three broader issues may be drawn from this research. First, knowledge about the professional education and training of economic developers is not well understood by practitioners or educators. Second, neither group has articulated and agreed upon the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in economic development practice. Third, little is understood about the economic development labor market and future needs for education and training. Three future actions are urged. First, more research on economic development education should be conducted. Second, the current body of economic development research should be assessed to help determine what should be taught in future courses. Third, a study of the economic development labor market should be conducted, defining job prospects in the field.