The Georgia Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Center for Talent and Workforce Preparedness, in partnership with the Georgia Department of Education, awarded Pickens County School District with state with funds to support workforce preparedness programs.
Thirty-one school districts were awarded the grant based off their proposed initiatives that strengthen alignment with business and industry needs, expand awareness of post-secondary and high-demand career opportunities, and increase entrepreneurial and work-based learning opportunities for rural students.
“We are very excited to hear this news! The grant will go to help fund both our Career Field Trip held in February for our younger high school students, and our Career Boot Camp we are having in March for some of our seniors,” said superintendent, Dr. Travis Thomas. “These events align very closely to our district's vision to have every Pickens high school graduate either enrolled, enlisted or employed once they earn their diploma.”
The Georgia Chamber’s annual executive insights survey revealed that talent remains the number one issue facing our state’s businesses. Georgia’s business leaders continue to focus on engaging with local K-12 school systems to increase awareness of opportunities available post-graduation. Early exposure to careers, and access to industry-recognized training and credentials, are vital to ensuring our students gain the skills needed to enter the workforce.
To learn more about the Rural Talent and Workforce Preparedness Grants and the Georgia Chamber’s partnership with the Georgia Department of Education, visit www.gachamber.com/foundation.
