“Anyone working in the economic development space knows that they can do very little for their communities on their own. It literally takes a village and strong partnerships to accomplish goals, no matter the level of economic development.
Dan Lytle’s passion for the topic of economic development is palpable. For years, he’s been fostering economic growth in west-central Wisconsin.
Lytle, director of economic development and regional campus management at Chippewa Valley Technical College, has received the Momentum West Young Professional of the Year Award.
The award is an honor given by Momentum West to recognize a young professional who has made significant contributions to the economic development of the west-central Wisconsin region.
The majority of the Momentum West region falls within the 11-county CVTC district, “which creates immediate opportunities for collaboration and partnership throughout west-central Wisconsin,” Lytle said.
“Being recognized for an award like this is humbling,” he said. “Anyone working in the economic development space knows that they can do very little for their communities on their own. It literally takes a village and strong partnerships to accomplish goals, no matter the level of economic development.
“Although it is an individual recognition, I would not be in the position of being recognized in this way without the help of others throughout the CVTC district, for which I am grateful.”
At CVTC, Lytle identifies, develops and implements strategic initiatives that support economic development in the College’s district. It involves collaborating with local businesses, industry leaders, government agencies and community organizations to support workforce development, he said.
“By being responsive to community concerns, CVTC ensures that the College’s resources and programs align with the interests of the local population and the needs of our industry partners,” Lytle said.
He is proud of the work he has been able to complete between the College and business community. Notably, he co-authored the City, County, and University partnership agreement for Menomonie, Dunn County, and UW-Stout.
“The partnership was multiple years in the making and required a collaborative approach that engaged every stakeholder group for the city and county to find common ground and a common set of priorities to build a work plan,” Lytle said.
Although not everyone may feel the passion for economic development that Lytle exudes, he implores people to consider the impact on their communities.
“Economic development drives job creation, strengthens local businesses, improves infrastructure, and enhances the overall quality of life,” he said. “Economic Development in your communities, whether it be industrial, commercial or residential, can mean more funding and resources for community projects and initiatives, like hiring first responders, creating community green spaces in addition to bringing in high-paying, high-demand work opportunities that help to retain a local workforce.”
Get involved in local economic development, support local businesses; join a local economic development organization; advocate for local, state and federal policy change; and seek volunteer opportunities to help promote economic growth for local communities, Lytle said.
