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Our mission is to develop transportation related economic development projects for disadvantaged communities.
What We Do
- Economic Vitality: Monarch EDC works to create a strong and vibrant business community by providing resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for our disadvantaged communities. Your donation helps us develop transportation related projects that will support the growth of our local economy.
- Community Development: Monarch EDC is committed to making our community a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Your donation helps us support community programs and initiatives that improve the quality of life for all residents including residents of disadvantaged communities.
- Learning: Monarch EDC is the voice of business in our community. We work to advocate for policies that support economic growth and create a positive business environment. Your donation helps us continue this work and make sure our voices are heard by policymakers.
Proposed Project List
Our first project is the development of an Aeronautical Museum & Children's Learning Center. We ask that you consider donating to this project. Monarch Economic Development Corp is a 501(c)3 tax exempt nonprofit organization (EIN 93-2457151).
Principals
Our mission is to develop and operate transportation related programs and projects that benefit underrepresented groups and disadvantaged communities.
Professionalism
Troy D. Hightower (CEO) founded Monarch EDC in 2022. He is also the CEO of TDH International LLC an economic and community development firm based in Bakersfield, CA formed in 2016. He has over 30 years’ experience with land use and transportation planning, modeling, renewable energy, and economic development projects in disadvantaged communities. He has been one of the California State University, Bakersfield President's Community Ambassadors for over 8 years.Mr. Hightower has the equivalent of a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering from Marseille Polytechnique University, France. He is fluent in French and has been a licensed pilot for over 45 years. He holds the rank of Lieutenant as a pilot in the US Air Force Civil Air Patrol.
Aida Smith (Secretary) is a project management and business operations leader with over a decade of experience. Her PMP certification is a testament to her proficiency in project management methodologies and best practices. As the Director of Aviation Resources, her leadership was pivotal in shaping operational standards and instilling a culture of continuous improvement. Her expertise in regulatory compliance ensured that practices were established and implemented in alignment with FAA Regulations and the Department of Education. . She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, a Master of Science in Aviation Science and is a Certified Project Manager (PMP) through the Project Management Institute (PMI).
Monarch EDC has the Guidestar Silver Seal of Transparency for Non-profit Organizations.
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