Tuesday, Feb. 09, 2010

Troup County one of eight named new Certified Work Ready Communities

LAGRANGE, Ga. — Troup County was one of eight localities named as new Certified Work Ready Communities by Gov. Sonny Perdue on Monday.

Those counties receiving the distinction have a skilled workforce and the education infrastructure needed to drive economic growth, a press release from the governor's office stated. In order to receive the designation counties must show show a specific percentage of the workforce has earned "work force ready certificates" and make progress on the graduation rate during a three year span.

Troup County produced 1,972 work ready certificates and boosted the public high school graduate rate from 73.2 to 76.3 percent, according to the press release.

The Work Ready initiative, which was created by Perdue in 2006, is geared toward generating workers with the right skill sets for specific jobs by looking at the current workforce and what type of industry communities need.

“Establishing a path for life-long learning empowers Georgians to improve their skills and take on the challenges of today’s economy,” Perdue stated in the release. “By building a strong, well-trained workforce, these communities have taken charge of their futures and are equipped for economic growth and success.”

The other seven counties to receive the certification were: Bulloch, Camden, Dodge, Early, Houston, Johnson, and Worth counties. Counties will also receive a $10,000 grant to continue their work.