Charles County Economic Development Department (EDD) is excited to welcome Ericka Stevens as our new Business Enterprise Programs Compliance Manager.
Charles County is strategically located in the Mid-Atlantic, just outside the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and home to the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division (NSWC IHD). With opportunities ranging from local procurement to state, federal, and defense contracting, businesses need the right resources to navigate the contracting process and compete successfully.
In her role, Ericka will oversee Charles County's business enterprise compliance efforts, helping ensure contracting processes are fair, transparent, and aligned with local, state, and federal requirements. She will also work closely with county staff and the business community to strengthen compliance while expanding opportunities for local businesses.
As the wealthiest Black majority county in the United States, Charles County is home to a diverse business community that includes Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) and Small Local Business Enterprises (SLBE) across many industries. Ericka's work will support these businesses by helping advance equitable participation in county contracting and building on initiatives like the Charles County Vendor Diversity Contract Compliance Portal, which was created to increase transparency, expand opportunity, and strengthen local business participation in county procurement.
"While much of my work focuses on compliance and accountability, what motivates me most is knowing those efforts help businesses succeed, strengthen our local economy, and ensure public resources are administered fairly and effectively," Ericka shared.
Ericka is no stranger to Charles County. She and her family enjoy shopping at local businesses, dining at area restaurants, and attending community events. Those experiences have given her a firsthand appreciation for the people and businesses that make Charles County such a special place.
"I am excited to have the opportunity to contribute professionally to a community that has already been such a meaningful part of my personal life," she said.
Ericka brings extensive experience in contracts, compliance, procurement, and strategic operations, along with a passion for creating systems that strengthen organizations and expand opportunities for businesses. We are excited to have her on the team and look forward to the expertise and support she will provide to Charles County's business community.