Members’ Corner: Joyce La Padula

Name, Title, Organization:

Joyce La Padula, Managing Director, Maryland World Class Consortia

Explain your role within your organization:

Since 2018, I have been Managing Director of the Maryland World Class Consortia (MWCC). I bring a unique perspective, having played an integral role in the inception and 1998 launch of the Consortia while at the Maryland Department of Commerce (formerly the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development/DBED). As the Managing Director, I am responsible for developing and implementing strategic plans to advance the organization’s mission and objectives. A key aspect of my role involves building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations. Additionally, I design and implement programs that support the organization’s goals, such as training, workshops, and consulting services.

What are your thoughts about economic development in Maryland?

Economic development in Maryland is driven by a diverse and robust economy, including key sectors that are significant to the Consortia such as biotechnology, cybersecurity, aerospace, and defense to name a few. Maryland benefits from its strategic location and its highly educated workforce, bolstered by renowned institutions. Maryland’s economic initiatives focus on fostering innovation, supporting small businesses, and enhancing infrastructure to ensure sustained growth and competitiveness in the global market.

Where do you think economic development fits in the non-profit community?

MWCC is Maryland’s only Lean membership organization dedicated to providing Lean and Six Sigma training. As a non-profit, we share knowledge across all industries in the state. Lean business practices streamline processes, reduce waste, and foster continuous improvement, enhancing productivity and quality. Implementing Lean boosts businesses’ efficiency and competitiveness, driving job creation, innovation, and overall economic growth in the community.

If you could wave a magic wand, what would you want to work with MEDA on to move Maryland forward?

The Consortia can add enormous value to the conferences and courses taught by MEDA by providing speakers at their events and vice versa. And in a perfect world, the MWCC and MEDA could support each other by leveraging MWCC’s expertise in Lean and continuous improvement to enhance the operational efficiency of Maryland businesses. MWCC could provide training and consulting services to companies identified by MEDA, while MEDA could facilitate connections and resources to help MWCC expand its reach and impact, ultimately driving economic growth and competitiveness across Maryland.

Do you have a memorable MEDA moment you would like to share?

I’m sure I’m not the only one who eagerly anticipates the MEDA annual conference. With its dynamic speakers, impressive award winners, and meticulous attention to detail, it’s truly a world-class event not to be missed. In addition, I have had the distinct honor of being a MEDA member, serving on staff, and volunteering. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Pam, Margaret, Sandy, and Gwen for their outstanding efforts in providing MEDA members with top-notch conferences and training events.

What is one thing you have been impacted by at a MEDA conference or event?

As a former DBED/Commerce employee, retaining my MEDA membership has positively impacted me by allowing me to stay connected with valuable city, county, and state economic development representatives and officials. This engagement provides me with access to MEDA’s extensive resources, ensuring I remain informed about critical economic issues that could affect the companies we support. Staying involved with MEDA helps me maintain valuable relationships and stay up-to-date on the latest developments in economic policy and strategy.

Please include any personal background information that you’d like to share (Alma mater, Military Service, hobbies, etc):

I am a huge animal lover, so animal rescue is a big part of who I am. I also love kayaking and seize every chance to be out on the water. I now have 12 grandchildren, ranging in age from 2 to 13 years old!