Michelle Parkkonen

Michelle Parkkonen, AICP has extensive work experience in urban planning and community development. Michelle started their career at CUPPAD Regional Commission in 2007, where they served as a Senior Planner. In this role, Michelle worked with local government units to prepare master, comprehensive, and policy plans, as well as zoning ordinances and land use controls. Michelle also provided technical assistance and conducted planning analyses.

In 2012, Michelle joined Partners for Community Development, Inc. as a Grants/Resource Development Specialist. During their time there, they worked with program managers to develop funding proposals for various programs and researched new funding options.

Since 2013, Michelle has been with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), where they have held several roles. Michelle started as a Redevelopment Ready Communities Planner and progressively advanced to Manager, Director of Redevelopment Ready Communities, and eventually Managing Director of Technical Assistance Programs. In their current position, Michelle is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the Technical Assistance Programs, which include initiatives such as Redevelopment Ready Communities and Michigan Main Street toolkits. Michelle'steam provides tailored technical assistance to communities, downtown management organizations, and developers to support a vibrant Michigan.

Michelle Parkkonen, AICP holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Northern Michigan University, which they obtained between 1998 and 2003. Michelle further pursued their education at the same university and completed their Master of Public Administration with a field of study in State and Local Administration from 2005 to 2007. In terms of additional certifications, Michelle has obtained the AICP certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners in December 2017. Additionally, they hold a certification as an Economic Development Finance Professional from the National Development Council, although the specific month and year of obtaining this certification are not provided.