At the December 2024 conference, a panel of experts convened to discuss the critical factors in attracting and supporting energy-intensive industries, such as data centers and large-scale manufacturing facilities. This session explored how economic developers can position their communities as prime locations for these high-impact projects while prioritizing community interests and maximizing economic benefits. The panel included Rick Hall, Partner at Barnes & Thornburg, Devin Hillsdon-Smith, Director of Integrated Site Selection – Industrial at Cushman & Wakefield, and Jonathan Leist, Director of Community Development for the City of Fort Wayne. Moderating the discussion was Jeff Quyle, President/CEO of Radius Indiana.