JOSH CROSS EARNS TENNESSEE CERTIFIED ECONOMIC DEVELOPER DESIGNATION

The Gallatin Economic Development Agency (GEDA) has announced that Special Projects Director Josh Cross has earned the Tennessee Certified Economic Developer (TCEcD) designation through the University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services, completing a two-year professional development program focused on the principles and practices of economic development in Tennessee.

Less than 1% of colleges and universities in the United States offer a degree in economic development, making the TCEcD designation a specialized path for professionals working to attract investment and strengthen local economies. Cross joins approximately 160 Tennessee alumni who have completed the two-year program while continuing their full-time economic development work.

“Josh brings a valuable combination of local knowledge, strong relationships, and a commitment to serving Gallatin’s business community,” said Rosemary Bates, Executive Director of the Gallatin Economic Development Agency. “This certification is an important professional milestone, and we’re proud to see him continue to build the expertise needed to support our existing industries and attract new investment to Gallatin.”

Cross’s capstone paper focused on the importance of customer service in economic development, a critical component of building relationships with existing industries and companies considering Gallatin for future investment.

“Economic development is most successful when it makes a meaningful, lasting difference in people’s lives,” Cross said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to my hometown by supporting local businesses and those they employ in our community.”  

Since joining GEDA in 2024, Cross has worked across several areas of economic development, including prospect recruitment, site availability, and grant funding. A Gallatin native and Middle Tennessee State University graduate, Cross previously served as Senior Deputy Press Secretary for the Tennessee House Republican Caucus.

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