2025 Fall Meeting Highlights the Power of Partnership

News Release # 2025-119

Wednesday Nov. 12, 2025

On Tuesday, Nov. 4, the Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD) hosted the 2025 Fall Meeting at the College of Southern Maryland's Velocity Center in Indian Head. This year's event, themed "The Partnership Economy," brought together business leaders, community partners, and government officials to explore how collaboration at the local, state, and regional levels accelerates growth, sparks innovation, and strengthens Charles County's economy.

"Charles County's economic vitality is built on the strength of its business community," said Jim Chandler, CEcD, Director of Economic Development. "Through collaboration and partnership, we can ensure continued growth and opportunity. That's why we dedicated this year's Fall Meeting to showcasing the many resources, connections, and programs available to help businesses in our community grow and succeed here."

In his opening address, Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II, Esq. confirmed, "Partnership is the engine that drives our progress."

Maryland Secretary of Labor, Portia Wu, delivered the opening keynote, sharing insights into the state's workforce development strategies and how Maryland's initiatives align with local efforts to expand employment opportunities and strengthen workforce readiness in Charles County.

The EDD also presented Charles County's inaugural Partner of the Year award, created to honor an individual, business, or organization that exemplifies collaboration, leadership, and commitment to the community. The award was presented to the Military Alliance Council (MAC) for its leadership in strengthening connections between Naval Support Facility Indian Head, the Town of Indian Head, and the broader Western Charles County Technology Corridor.

The Fall Meeting featured two panel discussions that showcased partnerships supporting business growth and industry advancement. The first panel, titled "Supporting Business Growth," focused on the statewide network of partners available to help small businesses expand and grow. The second panel, "Partnerships that Drive Innovation - Western Charles County Technology Corridor," highlighted efforts to transform the Western Charles County Technology Corridor into a hub for innovation and advanced technology.

The Fall Meeting concluded with a keynote address by Kelly Schulz, Chief Executive Officer of the Maryland Tech Council, who discussed how technology, innovation, and strong partnerships are driving business growth across the state, and how Charles County is well-positioned to capitalize on these emerging opportunities.

Materials from the 2025 Charles County Fall Meeting are available on the Charles County Economic Development Department's website. A full recording will be available soon.

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