GRATEFUL. AUTHENTIC. ZESTY
In her personal profile, Danielle King describes herself as “a passionate advocate for the North Country region. An economic and business development professional with experience in business attraction, workforce development, business retention and expansion, foreign direct investment, and commercial leasing.” WOW! Those are significant accomplishments for someone who graduated from college just over six years ago. In addition to her career responsibilities, King finds time to volunteer with Shine On, an empowerment program for middle school girls designed to promote self-esteem and self-confidence.
Current Business & Job Title: The Development Corporation (TDC), Business Development Manager
Hometown: Malone, NY
Age: 27
Education: Master’s degree in Community & Economic Development (SUNY Empire), Advanced Certificate in Workforce Development (SUNY Empire), Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations (SUNY Plattsburgh)
Community Involvement: Mountain Lake PBS Community Advisory Board, Involved with the Shine On! Girls program since 2011
What’s your biggest professional success?
Every time we welcome a new company to the region, or see a business in our park expand and add quality jobs to the community, those are big successes. Working with regional partners and TDC’s Board to develop programming and provide support for workforce development initiatives that bring local students that much closer to a wonderful career, those are big successes. Focusing on every “big win” reminds me of the true value in the work.
What important lesson have you learned in your career?
Never assume, always ask the question. Don’t be afraid to stray from the plan. Taking chances can be intimidating but so rewarding.
How has COVID-19 impacted you professionally and personally? What are you doing differently?
While it has definitely been difficult for everyone, I feel very fortunate. TDC’s president made the decision mid-2019 to switch our workstations to a more remote-work-friendly setup so our transition was pretty seamless and our team has been doing a great job at continuing to support our tenants and keep our projects on schedule.
What can the North Country do to make this region more appealing to a younger generation?
Be receptive to change and willing to include different voices at the table. Also, I can’t speak for an entire generation but I know one thing I value is flexibility. While not possible in every industry or position, the ability to work remotely to accommodate family or other needs is a small step that can lead to a happier and more productive workforce.
What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?
(Aside from skydiving) I would say taking the position I have now. I had mapped out my career trajectory and was not expecting another opportunity to present itself. It took a seriously robust pro/con list and many discussions with those I trust to make the decision.
What is something that no one would guess about you?
I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to speak at a TEDx event! I was able to share my experience with the Shine On program and the power of harnessing your character strengths to build your career.