With more than three decades of public service and community investment, former District 4 Councilmember Ingrid S. Watson (D) is expanding her impact as the newly minted president and CEO of Prince George’s County’s Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC).
Effective Jan. 16, Watson, who previously served in PGCEDC’s Workforce Services Division, returns to the corporation in a new realm dedicated to propelling business development and economic opportunity throughout the heart of Maryland’s second most-populous county.
“Ingrid Watson brings a deep understanding of Prince George’s County and a strong record of public service to this role,” said Orlan Johnson, chair of the PGCEDC Board of Directors. “Her prior experience within PGCEDC, combined with her leadership on the County Council and her deep knowledge of workforce development and economic policy, provides valuable perspective as we continue our work to support businesses, create jobs, and promote inclusive economic growth.”
A longtime champion of community betterment, Watson brings a deep background in expanding economic opportunity, workforce development, infrastructure investment, and grassroots outreach.
In addition to strengthening workforce and education pipelines, the former at-large council member of the City of Bowie has led initiatives that support sustainability and public health and safety, among others, while championing the causes of seniors, youth, nonprofits, and small businesses.
Beyond managing day-to-day operations at PGCEDC, her new role welcomes an opportunity to advance a collective vision to strengthen communities through business development and job creation – furthering a vast commitment to helping Prince Georgians thrive.
“Having previously worked within PGCEDC and spent my career focused on workforce development, economic growth, and community engagement, I understand the critical role the organization plays,” said Watson in a press release, “in supporting existing businesses, attracting new businesses, and expanding opportunities across our County.”
During her tenure on the council, the District 4 representative is also credited with chairing the Accessory Dwelling Unit Task Force and the Council’s Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee, where she oversaw a $5.8 billion county budget, and serving in leadership and representative roles across education, workforce, and health and human care services.
More than 30 years into her public service mission, Watson views the appointment as a fitting capstone to establish what’s next for the area.
“I am honored to return to the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation and to serve as president and CEO,” said the PGCEDC president. “I look forward to working with county leadership, the business community, and regional partners to continue building a strong, inclusive economy that benefits all Prince George’s County residents and businesses.”