Iredell Ready Recognizes Founding Partners for Workforce Certification Achievement
We are excited to announce that two of our founding partners, Shannon Viera, President & CEO of the Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce, and Jenn Bosser, President & CEO of Iredell Economic Development Corporation, have successfully completed the Certificate in Workforce Development Fundamentals program, offered through a partnership between the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Foundation and the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). As members of the second cohort, both Ms. Viera and Ms. Bosser have demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing their skills and promoting inclusive workforce development practices. This cohort builds on the momentum of the inaugural group, marking continued progress in advancing IEDC and ACCE’s commitment to enhancing the skills of chamber staff and economic development professionals while expanding equitable workforce opportunities and outcomes.
This joint program prepares professionals to navigate the intersection of economic and workforce development while addressing education gaps. Ms. Viera and Ms. Bosser completed a rigorous six-week curriculum, including expert-led sessions, interactive learning, practical exercises, and an online exam. Upon completion, they earned a digital certificate and social media badge from ACCE and IEDC to commemorate their success. ACCE offered (3) points towards the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) program and maintenance; IEDC additionally provided (3) Level-I points towards Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) recertification requirements. Two of just 112 professionals to earn this certificate, Ms. Viera and Ms. Bosser now join an esteemed group of workforce development leaders.
“IEDC is honored to recognize the second cohort of certificate recipients for their remarkable achievements in completing this program,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “As each new cohort joins, the program’s influence grows, propelling economic growth, talent development, and sustainable business practices in an integrated approach. Together with ACCE, we are shaping the future of economic and workforce development.”
“Congratulations to this cohort who are bringing essential skills back to their regions to address workforce challenges and promote economic prosperity. Their dedication highlights the pivotal role chambers of commerce and economic development organizations play in shaping the future of our communities,” said ACCE President and CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “This program drew interest from across the country, and I am excited to watch the catalytic leadership participants will bring to the workforce challenges employers in their communities face.”
“Participating in this cohort reinforced the importance of convening partners with diverse roles and perspectives to develop and deploy a comprehensive workforce strategy,” Ms. Bosser shared. “I was thrilled to share this experience with my colleague and partner, Shannon Viera with the Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce. The program supported the work we have done to date with Iredell Ready while providing us with new insights and best practices that we can build upon as we move forward. I applaud the ACCE, IEDC, and the instructors for their diligence to put together such an exceptional program.”
“This achievement reflects my commitment to advancing Iredell County’s economic growth by strengthening our workforce,” said Ms. Viera. “Completing the Certificate in Workforce Development Fundamentals program provides me with valuable knowledge and tools to effectively address the workforce challenges facing our community.”
ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION OF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVES FOUNDATION
The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) is a professional society serving the chamber of commerce industry focused on strengthening its 1,600 member chambers across the U.S. ACCE members represent 1.2 million organizations, nearly 3 million executives, and 70 million employees. Founded in 1971, the ACCE Foundation (ACCEF) provides chamber executives with tools, research, leadership development, and knowledge to be players in shaping the futures of their communities.
ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the largest nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization for economic developers, bringing together nearly 4,500 professionals. Members work across cities, counties, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, and more to create jobs, drive growth, and build vibrant, resilient communities. IEDC offers education, resources, and connections that empower professionals to drive meaningful change in communities and regions.