PIEDMONT — The region has a new state certified Work Ready Community, an effort that recognizes efforts to align the needs of the workforce and education to meet economic needs.
Wayne County has met all of the criteria to become part of the growing list of ACT Work Ready Communities, according to a press release.
“This will not only be a great benefit for Wayne County for future economic development, but also a great tool for Wayne County business owners as well,” said Vinnie Clubb, president of the Piedmont Area Chamber of Commerce.
The WRC recognition means a county has a system in place to provide employers irrefutable data that it can deliver a quality workforce with the skills employers need, according to the group.
Butler, Ripley and Dunklin counties are also certified. Stoddard County is a participating member, with 91% of its goals obtained, according to Work Ready Communities.
To become certified, counties must demonstrate a commitment to developing a strong workforce pipeline, desirable to employers, economic developers and current and future citizens of the county, the organization reports.
The ACT Work Ready Communities initiative empowers states, regions and counties with data, processes and tools that drive economic growth by identifying skills gaps and quantifying the skill level of their workforce, according to the organization.
To begin the certification process, Wayne County leaders attended the ACT Work Ready Communities Boot Camp, an executive leadership and training program designed and led by ACT to initiate, deploy and drive carefully tailored efforts to improve the county’s work readiness, officials reported. Leaders met with local employers, policymakers, educators and economic developers to establish goals and build a sustainable WRC model to fit community needs.
“Congratulations to Wayne County for becoming an ACT Work Ready Community, and joining a growing list of counties dedicated to building a robust workforce,” said ACT Regional Manager of Workforce Initiatives, Tony Garife. “The efforts of the county leadership to achieve WRC certification will provide the community with a tremendous economic development advantage and help it stand out for its workforce development efforts.”