Christian County awarded Work Ready Community in Progress Certificate

HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. (Nov. 15, 2012) – Christian County has been certified as a Work Ready Community in Progress by the Kentucky Workforce Investment Board (KWIB) and the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet.  The Work Ready Community certification program assures employers that a local workforce has the talent and skills necessary for existing jobs and the ability to master the innovative technologies new jobs will require.

“The certificate shows prospective industry that the community's workforce is ready for employment in a broad range of positions," Mitch Robinson, Executive Director of the Economic Development Council for Christian County.
 
The Work Ready Community in Progress designation means that Christian County is a step closer to meeting all the Work Ready Community criteria established by the KWIB. To achieve this level, a county must present a viable plan to meet all of the criteria within three years. The designation shows that a community is making strides and working with its business, education, workforce and economic development leaders to set and meet common goals that will give the county an economic edge. 
 
“This is a positive step as it signifies that our community is working hard to be Work Ready and we already have many aspects already in place,” said Carter Hendricks, President/CEO of the Christian County Chamber of Commerce.
 
To be designated a Work Ready Community a county must gather local support and commitment and apply for the certification. Counties have to meet criteria in six areas including high school graduation rate, National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) holders, demonstrated community commitment, educational attainment, soft-skills development and digital literacy. 
 
“The designation of a Work Ready Community in Progress status gives Christian County an economic advantage when companies are looking for a place to locate. Additionally is shows established businesses that we will continue to have a strong pool of skilled workers for the future,” added Hendricks.
 
For more information about the efforts of the Workforce/Education programs, contact Lanita Ballard at the Christian County Chamber of Commerce at (270)885-9096 or www.christiancountychamber.com.