At the MACo Summer Conference, the Large County Coalition (LCC) convened county leaders and industry experts for a high-level discussion on workforce, economic growth, and innovation in Maryland’s largest jurisdictions.
Prince George’s County Council Member Wanika Fisher, Chair of the LCC, opened the session by stressing the importance of sustained dialogue between counties and industry leaders to bolster Maryland’s economic foundation.
LCC Panel Speakers
- Kelly Schulz, CEO, Maryland Tech Council
- Greg Akerman, President, Baltimore/DC-Metro Building Trades Council
- Thomas Penny, President, Donohoe Hospitality
Greg Akerman addressed the evolving nature of economic development in the building trades. He noted that counties can play a pivotal role by aligning workforce development with industry demand — particularly through apprenticeships and training programs that equip residents with the skills needed for long-term infrastructure projects.
Thomas Penny spoke about the hospitality sector’s recovery and future growth, emphasizing the importance of workforce retention and tourism promotion. He explained that infrastructure — from transportation to broadband — plays a direct role in attracting investment. He stressed that by investing in these essentials, counties place themselves ahead in the competition for growth.
Kelly Schulz highlighted the expanding technology and life sciences sectors, pointing to opportunities for counties to foster innovation while ensuring equitable access to new jobs. She urged local leaders to remove barriers to investment, streamline the permitting process, and strengthen partnerships that connect employers with a skilled talent pipeline.
M-NCPPC Remarks
The meeting also featured remarks from Artie Harris, Chair of the Montgomery County Planning Board, and Darryl Barnes, Chair of the Prince George’s County Planning Board, representing the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC).
The Commission plays a critical role in shaping communities across Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, serving more than two million residents and countless visitors.
Both chairs emphasized the importance of collaboration between state and local governments in managing population growth, advancing economic development, and targeting infrastructure investments. They noted that planning must be transparent, equitable, and responsive to the needs of both residents and counties.
The session took place on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at the Roland Powell Convention Center in Ocean City, Maryland.
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