ROI’s Meet the Team Series is meant to showcase some of our exceptional team members and share in their passion for all things economic development. We also have a little bit of fun to help you get to know the ROI Team more personally.
Meet Trusha Chauhan, ROI’s Associate Consultant. Trusha is part of our “savant team” and plays a pivotal role in shaping EDOs plans and strategies through her expert research, analysis, and recommendations. Learn more about the trends she is seeing happening in the #Economic Development landscape and a bit more about her personal story.
Can you tell us more about yourself and how you discovered the world of economic development?
I have always been interested in the relationship between the economy and how it shapes communities and the world we live in. I was fortunate enough to get a taste of these dynamics from a governmental perspective when I was working in the Civil Service in the UK. But really, it was after exploring these topics in more depth during my Master’s in Political Science that I knew that I wanted to work in a field that made a positive impact on economic development, and that’s how I ended up at ROI.
What is your role here at ROI?
I work on the consulting side of the organization. In simple terms that looks like extracting and analyzing trade, labor market, and other economic data to offer clients research-based recommendations for their region. Projects differ from contract to contract, but the one common thread that runs throughout all of them is providing personalized support that responds to the needs and questions of each client.
What trends are you seeing in the world of economic development? What are clients looking for?
The creation of green jobs is something I am seeing more of in regions around the world. Clients are looking to understand how they can shift their ecosystems towards sustainable industries and what potential their region has to make the most of their assets in these sectors. It is really encouraging to see and I think it’s a trend that will likely gain more momentum in the next few years.
What does economic development mean to you?
The meaning has changed for me over time because what is economically salient has been in flux, especially over the last two years. I would say right now, economic development is about sustainability and propelling growth in a way that is responsible to people and the planet.
If there was one thing you wish everyone knew about economic development, what would it be?
Though it can sometimes appear to be a niche industry, decisions made by economic development organizations have a high impact and affect everything from the kinds of jobs available in a region to how easy it is for a big firm to enter a local market.
Do you have an inspirational quote you enjoy?
I’m not really an inspirational quote kind of gal, but I do draw inspiration from the people I love.
What’s the one song you can play on repeat all day long?
El Carretero by Guillermo Portabales
What trend do you hope makes a comeback?
Anything Princess Diana was wearing in the 90s.
What’s your favorite emoji or most used emoji??
As anyone that knows me well can attest to, I use this guy 😩 to emote everything from joy to annoyance to despair.
If you had to pick. Comedy or a drama?
A drama. I’m always up for a well-written story.