The Leadership Dodge Class of 2015 recently visited Atlanta to learn about economic
development and state government.
Leadership Dodge 2015 pictured with Jenny Robbins (middle row, second from right) of Georgia EMC at the Centergy Center in Atlanta.
The session began February 24, 2015, at the Centergy Center in Atlanta, which houses the
Georgia Department of Economic Development, Georgia EMC Community & Economic
Development, Georgia Power Company’s Georgia Resource Center, and Georgia Quick Start
Training Program.
Jenny Robbins, Community Development Consultant with Georgia EMC welcomed the class
and presented an overview of the economic development processes and the many services
offered to Dodge County through Ocmulgee EMC and Georgia EMC.
Leadership Dodge 2015 pictured with State Representative Jimmy Pruett on the House floor.
Robbins explained the vital role of leadership development as an essential component to
economic development, as well as continued commitment of resources. One of the services
offered to communities, site planning, was demonstrated by Jim O’Bryan, Retail Specialist with
Georgia EMC, using interactive models and mapping resources. O’Bryan also made the
presentation “Where’s My Steakhouse?” to show the class where Dodge County ranks among
major industries and areas of spending compared to nearby counties.
Leadership Dodge 2015 pictured with Secretary of State Brian Kemp at the Capitol.
Next, Georgia Power Company’s Georgia Resource Center presented an overview on the
economic development process using role-play. The class saw how companies choose
communities based upon certain attributes such as airport accessibility, infrastructure, and
incentives, and how the Georgia Resource Center utilizes satellite imagery, virtual models, and
other tools to market communities using technology.
A tour of Georgia Quick Start Training Program allowed the class to view one of the innovative
incentives Georgia offers prospective companies. A comprehensive training program, Quick
Start develops training materials and programs and implements them onsite for companies who
decide to open, relocate to or expand in Georgia. The training materials include videos, manuals,
computer programs and more, and are offered to companies creating a minimum of 15 new jobs
in Georgia.
Due to weather delays, Leadership Dodge class traveled back to Atlanta on March 24 to tour the
Capitol and meet with state leaders.
Throughout the day, Leadership Dodge met with various speakers including Mark Williams of
the Department of Natural Resources, Secretary of State Brian Kemp, Saralyn Stafford of the
Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Todd Long of the Georgia Department of
Transportation, and lobbyist Andrew Long.
The class visited the Chamber of the Georgia House of Representatives, where Representative
Jimmy Pruett welcomed them from the floor.
Rep. Pruett explained some of the challenges facing Dodge County and encouraged the class to
get involved in economic and community development. Serving on the Appropriations
Committee, Children and Youth, Economic Development and Tourism, and Industrial Relations,
Rep. Pruett reported on the issues important to Dodge County and work he is doing to improve
its economic development and quality of life.
Rep. Pruett urged the class to form the relationships necessary for responsible leadership, and
educate themselves regarding the issues Dodge County faces related to economic development.
The next Leadership Dodge session will be Local Government and Elected Officials day on
April 14.