For Immediate Release:
January 20th 2026
For more information, contact
Rhett Butler
Marketing & Communications Manager
Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation
rbutler@co.pg.md.us
Cell: 240-427-7926
Prince Georges County, MD – Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation (PGCEDC) announced the appointment of Ingrid S. Watson as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 16, 2026.
Ms. Watson joins PGCEDC following her service as the Prince George’s County Council Member representing District 4, where she advanced policies supporting economic opportunity, workforce development, infrastructure investment, and community well-being.
PGCEDC also welcomes Ms. Watson back to the organization, where she previously served in the Workforce Services Division prior to its transition to Employ Prince George’s, playing an integral role in the visioning and development of workforce programs, services, and outreach that connect residents with employment opportunities and support business growth.
“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.”
Ms. Watson brings more than 30 years of experience serving Prince George’s County across local government, economic development, workforce initiatives, and government affairs. In addition to her service on the County Council, she previously served as an. At-Large Council Member of the City of Bowie and as an elected member of the Prince George’s County Democratic Central Committee. Her professional experience also includes serving as Government Affairs Manager for Children’s National Hospital and Outreach and Communications Manager for Employ Prince George’s.
During her tenure on the County Council, Ms. Watson focused on responsive constituent services and championed initiatives supporting workforce and education pipelines, infrastructure improvements, environmental sustainability, fiscal responsibility, public health, public safety, healthcare access, and support for seniors, youth, nonprofits, and small businesses. She served as Chair of the Council’s Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee, where she helped oversee a $5.8 billion County budget, and as a member of the Education and Workforce Development Committee and the Health, Human Services, and Public Safety Committee. She also chaired the Accessory Dwelling Unit Task Force and represented the Council on the Council of Governments Board of Directors and the Prince George’s County Workforce Board.
“I am honored to return to the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation and to serve as President and CEO,” said Watson. “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 in supporting existing businesses, attracting new businesses, and expanding opportunities across our County. 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.”
As President & CEO, Ms. Watson will lead PGCEDC’s strategic vision and day-to-day operations, with a focus on business attraction and retention, entrepreneurship, and cross-sector partnerships that position Prince George’s County as a competitive and welcoming destination for investment. Her leadership will advance PGCEDC’s mission of strengthening communities through business development and job creation.
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About Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation
PGCEDC's mission is to cultivate and promote a strong local economy supporting entrepreneurs' and businesses' growth and prosperity. It is dedicated to strengthening communities through business development and job creation. For more information about Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation's services to local companies, visit www.pgcedc.com.