Carrollton Ranks in Top 50 List of Economic Developers in the U.S.

The City of Carrollton's Director of Economic Development Jenny Zeilfelder was recently named to Consultant Connect's 2026 Top 50 Economic Developers in North America list.

The annual recognition honors outstanding economic development professionals nominated by their peers in the economic development and site consulting industries. Recipients are selected for exemplary leadership, innovative strategies, and measurable impacts in building thriving communities.

"The City is proud to see Zeilfelder recognized among North America's top economic development professionals," Executive Director of Development Services Ravi Shah said. "Her strong track record in recruiting business growth and increasing international investment in the City plays a crucial role in advancing Carrollton's economic development efforts."

Carrollton ranks among the region's leading cities for new job creation, total new development square footage, and the number of businesses experiencing relocation, as well as the expansion of existing businesses.

"I am honored to be recognized by Consultant Connect," Zeilfelder said. "Economic development is always a team effort, and I am proud to be shaping Carrollton's future alongside Mayor Babick and City Council, the City Manager's Office, City staff, and community partners whose collaboration and commitment make this possible."

With more than 17 years of experience in economic development, Zeilfelder has helped lead and support projects representing over $1 billion in capital investment and more than 10,000 jobs throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth region. Since joining Carrollton, she has brought that same expertise, leadership, and strategic vision to the City's economic development efforts. Her largest project last year involved Pennymac's decision to establish a new hub in Carrollton. As one of the nation's top mortgage lenders, the loan-servicing giant plans to bring more than 1,800 new jobs to the community and are on track to be Carrollton's largest employer.

Consultant Connect understands economic development goes beyond infrastructure and investment. The organization's goal is to shine a spotlight on exceptional leaders who drive meaningful change across North America where lives in all communities can be transformed for the better.

The 2026 Top 50 recipients will be officially recognized and presented with an award during the ECONOMIX event, hosted by Consultant Connect on November 10 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

For more information about the City of Carrollton's Economic Development Department, visit Carrollton's Economic Development webpage.