This Committee began several years ago with the development of GEDA's "TERRIFIC" Education Awards program, through which GEDA has recognized successful models in the K-12, technical, and university systems. As workforce preparation emerged as a critical issue for economic development, this committee has sought to identify critical issues, gaps between business needs and workforce capabilities, existing resources, and has made recommendations for GEDA's role related to supporting economic development practitioners as they encounter workforce development challenges. This committee has helped monitor and provided recommendations for GEDA communications related to the education reform legislation, and helps to link GEDA to the Governor's Office of Workforce Development, and the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education.

For more information, contact Committee Chair Dr. Joe Whorton.

2008-2009 Action Plan

Action Items:

• Evaluate the depth and breadth of international resources in secondary and post-secondary education in Georgia and help communicate the linkages between these resources and economic development.
• Support the Work Ready initiatives of the Governor’s Office of Workforce Development.
• Create awareness of economic development resources within the University System as a whole.
• Arrange top speakers or panels with education/workforce development officials for presentations at GEDA meetings.
• Support the GEDA web site improvement initiative by developing content, assembling links and other useful tools for the page devoted to Education/Workforce Development resources and best practices.

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