State of the Region looks at need for workforce development, career prep

TUPELO, Miss. (WCBI) – Business and community leaders from 17 counties throughout Northeast Mississippi heard about strengths and weaknesses of the area during an annual meeting sponsored by the CREATE Foundation.

The “State of the Region” meeting featured presentations by experts in manufacturing and education. One of the most pressing needs for the region and the state was workforce development.

Experts said programs like the Toyota Wellspring Education Fund are vital when it comes to helping students in elementary through high school, think about and prepare for a career.

Dr. Kristy Luse is president of the Toyota Wellspring Fund and said students must be exposed to the wide variety of educational options available after high school.

“Most students don’t understand that when they leave high school there are many options, they can receive a certificate, they can have a few college hours, community college or even higher ed, but students need to understand there are various options beyond a four year college degree to be successful, have a living wage and stay in their community and contribute to our local economy,” said Dr. Luse.

Experts at State of the Region also emphasized the importance of community colleges for workforce development and training.