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WOODFORD COUNTY DEVELOPS WORKFORCE EDUCATION PROGRAM
Workforce Education Mini-Summit to be Held December 2, 2011

Versailles, KY - The Woodford County Chamber of Commerce is collaborating with local government officials, Woodford County Schools, Economic Development Authority and regional workforce groups to develop an on-going program to address workforce issues in Woodford County.  Over the past two months, representatives from this group have been meeting to discuss the needs for workforce education and skills training needed by employers.  With the assistance of the Bluegrass Area Development, Midway College, KCTCS, Central Kentucky Career Centers, and Bluegrass Workforce Investment leaders, Woodford County will be applying for designation as a “Work Ready Community” meeting or exceeding criteria as defined within the application.

Tami Vater, executive director of the Woodford Chamber commented, “This is an important issue to our local businesses that need to find and keep qualified skilled employees.  Not only are we developing a program to address these issues, we are looking for ways to fund and assist businesses allowing them the option to receive services relative to their employment needs.”  Vater is also a member of the Bluegrass Workforce Investment Board which recently developed a new strategic plan that addresses some of these issues defined locally in Woodford County, she added.  Daryl Smith, chairman of the Bluegrass Workforce Investment Board added, “As we continue to be more strategic in our efforts, we are excited to see the enthusiasm and support locally to address the needs of employers and their employees.”

The Woodford County Work Ready Initiative plan of work include the following objectives, as defined and determined by the group, to include working closing with local businesses and industries to educate them on skills training assistance; creating better communication with local government and community organizations to educate them on services available to Woodford County citizens and businesses; recognize local high school aged students for reaching benchmarks achieved through completion of study components, soft skills and work ethics training; and increase awareness and completion of skills training testing, GED and post-secondary degrees.

On Friday, December 2, 2011 the Chamber of Commerce will host a FREE educational workshop from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. that will inform participants about the Work Ready Communities application process; services available to businesses for employee training; and understanding how a college degree can be a successful tool for employers and employees.  Guest speakers will include representatives from state and regional workforce investment programs, Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, Central Kentucky Career Center, Woodford County Chamber and Economic Development representatives.