Laserfiche WebLink
GOAL: WORKFORCE EXCELLENCE <br />Create aworkforce development system that allows businesses to be <br />globally competitive and enhances economic opportunity for workers. <br />The quality of a community’s workforce is the number one issue i <br />development today. Companies will not be able to expand, nor will they be interested <br />in Greater San Marcos if they do not feel they can find the work <br />provide the skilled workers that companies are looking for, the region will have to <br />optimize its Pre-K to 16 pipeline to the labor force, particularly as it relates to priority <br />target business sectors. This goal focuses on the workforce development needs of <br />Greater San Marcos, from the public school systems to two- and four-year degree <br />programs and beyond. <br /> <br /> <br />Currently, residents of Greater San Marcos must travel outside o <br />educational and skill development needs at the community college level. This is a <br />significant barrier that discourages participation in certification and technical <br />programs, creating a break in the pipeline of qualified workers. <br />Through the community input process of this Comprehensive Economic Development <br />Strategy, major employers indicated there is a desperate need for vocati <br />technical training – at certificate and Associate’s levels as well as in high school. <br />Businesses need easy access to the specialized certificate and technical <br />delivered through Austin Community College. The rapid change th <br />evolving technology brings to the workplace creates an urgent an <br />upgrade worker skills. Businesses that do not have access to the kinds of cert <br />and customized training that community colleges provide are not able to remain <br />competitive in today’s business climate. <br /> <br /> <br />Final Strategy <br />September 2009 11 <br /> <br />