October 2026 Chair's Column

Turning Connections Into Opportunities

As we enter the final quarter of the year, I look back on the tremendous momentum we continue to experience across Georgia and the important role our economic development community plays in that success. Last month's GEDA Annual Conference in Savannah provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, exchange ideas, and celebrate the partnerships that make our profession so rewarding. It was especially meaningful to welcome so many of you to the Savannah region, and I want to thank everyone who contributed to making this year's conference such a success. The importance of our work is reflected in several recent announcements across the state, including Audi's plans to invest approximately $4 billion and create 4,500 jobs in Middle Georgia, Mitsubishi Power's $490 million expansion in Chatham County, and Pirelli's $1.2 billion expansion in Rome. These investments represent much more than impressive numbers. They reflect years of preparation, strong relationships, strategic infrastructure investments, and the collective efforts of economic development professionals who understand that success rarely happens overnight.

As we look toward the remainder of the year and beyond, these announcements should serve as both a source of pride and a reminder that our work is never finished. Georgia's continued success depends on our ability to prepare communities, develop our workforce, support existing industries, and anticipate the needs of tomorrow's businesses. Whether we represent a small rural community or one of our state's larger metropolitan regions, each of us contributes to Georgia's competitive advantage. One of the things I appreciate most about GEDA is the willingness of our members to share ideas, support one another, and celebrate successes throughout the state. That spirit of collaboration is something we should never take for granted. As Chairman, I am proud to serve alongside such dedicated professionals, and I remain confident that Georgia's greatest opportunities are still ahead. Thank you for your commitment to GEDA, your leadership, and the difference you make every day in communities across our great state.

Stacy Watson
Director, Economic & Industrial Development
Georgia Ports Authority