Leigh Hopkins, AICP, CEcD is a Senior Project Manager with the Center for Economic Development Research (CEDR) at Georgia Tech’s Enterprise Innovation Institute (EI²).
Leigh transfers her expertise in economic development data research and analysis into practical solutions for complex community problems and helps create competitive climates for communities and businesses to grow and thrive. Leigh currently manages the Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership (IMCP) initiative for the 15-county northwest Georgia region and the development and implementation of the region’s first Advanced Manufacturing Strategy. Leigh also co-manages a project to gauge the feasibility of developing Atlanta’s next “innovation neighborhood”. For the last three years, Leigh has organized and led the Georgia Tech Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC), now in its 49th year, accredited through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Interested in the sustainability of the growing Georgia manufacturing sector, Leigh has assessed feasibility of creating a Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED)-standard industrial park. Other interests include using ArcGIS to visually convey the impact of firm attrition, job growth, zoning regulations, and economic incentives on communities.
Leigh is an active member of the American Planning Association (APA)/Georgia Planning Association (GPA) and has held American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification, since 2010. She participates in regular professional development courses through membership with IEDC, and is also an active member of the Georgia Economic Development Association (GEDA). Leigh holds a Bachelor’s degree in Forest Resources from the University of Georgia, and a Master’s degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology in City and Regional Planning.
Leigh Hopkins, AICP, CEcD
Georgia Tech Enterprise Innovation Institute
75 Fifth St. NW, Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30308
Phone: 404-894-0933 | Fax: 404-410-6910
Email: ude.hcetag.etavonninull@snikpoh.hgiel