Competitive Workforce Alliance Wins Groundbreaking Grant for the Region

$250,000 Awarded to Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership

The Competitive Workforce Alliance Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership is proud to announce that it is the recipient of a $250,000 grant award. The Partnership is one of only four groups in the state to receive this highly competitive implementation grant.

Awarded by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the $250,000 grant will fund a two-year initiative to address workforce shortages and skills development in the Allied Health industry. The Centralina Workforce Development Board, which serves as the workforce intermediary for the Partnership, will be the administrator for the grant funds.

In announcing the grant, the Department of Commerce commended the Competitive Workforce Alliance Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership for its understanding of workforce needs in its 16-county region, and applauded the projects identified to help address those needs.

Partnership initiatives include increasing public education and awareness of Allied Health occupations by expanding its website and conducting career expos. Other projects for the Partnership include developing additional training programs for Physical and Occupational Therapy Assistants and developing a career pathways model that will enable entry-level healthcare employees to move to higher skilled, higher paying jobs.

The Alliance formed the Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership, which is a consortium comprised of employers, economic, education, workforce development and economic development professionals and training providers that meet regularly to create strategies and programs that continually assess, prioritize, and respond to the workforce training needs of employers in the allied health industry. Its mission is “to assure that the region has the allied health resources necessary to meet the healthcare needs of its citizens”.

The Competitive Workforce Alliance and its Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership are very excited to have won this grant. Work has already begun on the initial stages of project implementation. Stay tuned for future developments! For more information on the Competitive Workforce Alliance and the Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership, please visit www.agreatworkforce.com or contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by email at dhollars@centralina.org.


Approximately twenty educators and counselors spent the majority of the week of June 22, 2009 traveling Stanly County and becoming more familiar with local business and industry. The CAFÉ (Career Academy for Educators) program offered high school educators a glimpse into some of the businesses that call Stanly County home. The program was sponsored by the Stanly County Chamber of Commerce, Stanly Community College, Stanly County Schools, and the Centralina Workforce Development Board.

Presentations by David Hollars, Executive Director of Centralina Workforce Development Board, Natasha Pender, Centralina Workforce Development Board Program Associate, and Betty O’Neal, Stanly Community College, provided regional workforce development information on job skills needed in our region, Centralina WDB’s 3rd Annual Youth Services Summit, and a training session called “The Right Answer”.

The program began each day with the educators meeting at Stanly Community College to discuss and tour parts of the Albemarle and Locust campuses. The focus of the morning tours was to make sure that educators had information to pass on to students about the innovative and emerging careers including the community college’s new Heavy Equipment program, new one year Welding Certificate program, SIMS Lab, and Technology programs. In addition, information with regards to another area of educational opportunities and new collaborative program between Stanly Community College and Pfeiffer University was shared.

The remainder of the days were spent touring and meeting with local employers including Storm Technologies, GHA, Chicago Tube and Iron, Carnes Miller Gear, and the Uwharrie Vineyards. Educators and counselors were provided information from the businesses about what skills and education levels were needed to obtain jobs with their companies. Information was also presented concerning the Jobs NOW “12 in 6” initiative of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which begins on July 1 and the Career Readiness Certificate program. The CAFÉ program concluded on Thursday with a presentation by David Rudisill, President Stanly County Chamber of Commerce and Kevin Gullette, Executive Director Economic Development Commission.

CAFÉ was “reinvented” from a program available in the mid-90’s for teachers. The Career Readiness Task Force of Stanly County, headed by Dr. Mike Taylor, President Stanly Community College, Tom Ramseur, President and CEO, Stanly County Chamber of Commerce and Centralina Workforce Development Board member, and Dr. Samuel DePaul, Stanly County Schools were responsible for planning the event.

Shannon Batchelor and Susan Norris with the Stanly County Schools along with Kathy Almond, Kathy Gardner, and Marion Kinley with Stanly Community College’s Continuing Education Department made up the committee that put on this year’s CAFÉ program. The committee would like to thank the local companies and businesses that contributed gifts for the CAFÉ participants and a special “thank you” to VAC and DASH owner, Peter Asciutto, for his donation of T-shirts for each participant.

One of the CAFÉ attendees stated that their most lasting impressions of CAFÉ were “networking with professionals throughout the county to enrich my classroom instruction and the development of personal contacts.”

Another attendee is quoted as saying their most lasting impressions were, “the amazing amount of opportunities in Stanly County and the immediate needs of the future workforce.”

“I will now be able to better inform my students about classes at SCC and job opportunities in Stanly Co.,” commented one of the CAFÉ participants. Another stated, “this has helped me better understand the needs of our local employers and to help guide our students when they feel like there is no opportunity for them after school.”

Would you recommend that other educators attend the CAFÉ in the future? “Definitely!! Wonderful educational opportunity for educators to observe first had great resources we have available in Stanly County and great networking – great to meet many other educators.”

The program was co-sponsored by SCC, Stanly County Schools, Stanly County Chamber of Commerce and the Centralina Workforce Development Board.

“It took everybody working together to make this program such a success,” Almond said.  “But we really appreciate the effort from Centralina. Without them, the funding for this event would not have been possible.”

Funding for the CAFÉ program this summer was provided by the Centralina Workforce Development Board. For more information on the CAFÉ program or to find out how you can get involved, please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by email at dhollars@centralina.org.

The 2009 CAFÉ class stops to pose for a picture during one of their daily learning sessions at local employers in Stanly County.


Working Together – for a Great Workforce

Competitive Workforce Alliance Holds Meeting

The Competitive Workforce Alliance held their quarterly meeting on Tuesday June 23, 2009 at the Dole Facility in Bessemer City in Gaston County. The Gaston Workforce Development Board served as host for the meeting. Acting Gaston WDB chair Selina Lee welcomed the group.

The members of the Alliance discussed the recent grant award received for the Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership, as well as the upcoming release of the updated State of the Workforce Study. John Metcalf with Corporation for a Skilled Workforce gave a report on the Study to Alliance members and discussed the differences between the 2005 Study and the current Study. The 2009 State of the Workforce Study is expected to be released in early September. The Alliance also received an update from Steve Partridge with the Charlotte Regional Economic and Workforce Recovery Initiative. The state’s review of the Alliance’s efforts with the Regional Collaboration Planning Grant from 2008 was discussed. Alliance members agreed to move forward with plans for the fourth annual Workforce and Economic Development Summit in November 2009.

In the midst of a changing economy, the Centralina, Charlotte-Mecklenburg, and Gaston Workforce Development Boards in North Carolina along with the Western Piedmont and Region C Workforce Development Boards joined forces with the Catawba Regional and the Pee Dee Workforce Investment Boards from South Carolina and the Charlotte Regional Partnership to create the Competitive Workforce Alliance.

The Competitive Workforce Alliance is the workforce network for the greater Charlotte Region. Together, the Alliance members are driving solutions to workforce and business issues in the region. Mirroring the Charlotte Regional Partnership’s 16 counties, Alliance members saw the value in speaking as one workforce voice for the entire economic development region. This unique alliance provides resources, training, and business services through a network of JobLink/One-Stop Career Centers. Local Boards are encouraged to preserve and promote their own unique services and relationships in their counties.

Special thanks to Angela Karchmer and Pat Bailey from the Gaston WDB for their arrangements with Dole for the meeting. For more information on the Competitive Workforce Alliance, please visit www.agreatworkforce.com or contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by e-mail at dhollars@centralina.org.

Members of the Competitive Workforce Alliance discuss the recently received $250,000 grant for the Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership.

Putting Faith in the Future of the Community

Centralina WDB Sponsored SHARE Network Faith-Based Job Resource Event Draws Crowd

The Centralina Workforce Development Board partnered with Mecklenburg Ministries to host an event targeted at reaching faith-based and community organizations. This historical event, held on Tuesday June 9, 2009 at Park Road Baptist Church in Charlotte, was attended by 140 clergy and staff representing 99 different organizations in the region.

Attendees discovered resources available through the local JobLink Career Centers and other workforce organizations. The group also heard best practices from several churches currently sponsoring Job Support groups.

This event was made possible through the efforts of the NC SHARE Network (Showing How Access to Resources Empowers) that continually brings together faith-based organizations, community organizations, business and governmental agencies. The NC SHARE Network allows these business and organizations to better reach out into the community and help individuals get the services that they need. The NC Department of Commerce awarded American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds to the Centralina WDB to help expand the Board’s existing SHARE Network services to more communities in our region, especially those with significant layoffs from the financial services industry.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is conducting follow up with the groups represented and will be distributing printed job hunting resource materials to them. The Centralina WDB continues to be a leader in the state and the nation in linking faith-based and community organizations with the workforce and business communities.

Do you know of a faith-based and/or community organization that would like to work with the SHARE Network? If so, please contact Vail Carter, Business Services Representative with the Centralina Workforce Development Board for more information. You can reach him by phone at (704) 348-2710 or by e-mail at vcarter@centralina.org.

Dr. Maria Hanlin, Executive Director of Mecklenburg Ministries spoke at the ground breaking event on Tuesday June 9, 2009.
 
Moira Quinn, Senior Vice President of Communications with the Charlotte Center City Partners presented at the event.

What’s Up with Local Community Colleges?

Update on New Programs at Centralina WDB Area Community Colleges

During the economic downturn, local organizations are working hard to help those that are unemployed, looking to be retrained or looking to start their own businesses. Local community colleges in the Centralina WDB region are no exception. Here are some recent new offerings and assistance available to help those looking to improve their skills.

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC) hosted an employer forum on Tuesday June 2, 2009 at the North Carolina Research Campus’ David H. Murdock Core Laboratory Building in Kannapolis. The College was seeking input from local employers as it plans a number of time condensed programs under the “JobsNOW 12-in-6” initiative.

JobsNOW is a program requested by Gov. Beverly Perdue, developed by North Carolina Community College System, and funded by American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds through the Division of Workforce Development of the NC Department of Commerce. JobsNOW 12-in-6 addresses the need to quickly train workers to re-enter the job market in fields that are in demand locally and across the state.

The JobsNOW initiative uses a “12-in-6” approach, initially targeting 12 occupational areas a worker can be trained in from one week to six months. RCCC is eligible to receive $350,000 in stimulus funds to develop 12-in-6 programs and hire instructors to teach the classes. RCCC will develop and offer six 12-in-6 programs, with the possibility of adding at least three more. The planned programs are in: air conditioning, heating and refrigeration; automotive systems technology; electrical/electronics technology; nurse assistant; office systems technology, with a medical terminology focus; and welding technology. Programs under consideration include construction/masonry, machining technology, and energy and green technologies.

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College plans to open most of its 12-in-6 programs as soon as August 2009. Unemployed and under-employed people are eligible to apply. Applications must be completed and submitted through local JobLink Career Centers. Applications will be available in July.

In addition to receiving the job skills necessary to enter a new career, those completing a 12-in-6 program will receive the Career Readiness Certification (CRC). The CRC is a national program that helps job applicants show proof of their basic skills to employers. For more information on the Career Readiness Certification and the 12-in-6 program please call RCCC at (704) 216-3545 or (704) 216-3709.

PLEASE NOTE that all local community colleges have prepared and submitted plans for new JobsNOW 12-in-6” initiative. More information on specific course offerings will be shared in upcoming editions of this e-newsletter and on www.centralinaworks.com.

Gaston College recently received a $220,000 Gold Leaf Opportunities for Work grant. This grant will provide short-term training to fill gaps between the supply and demand for certified nursing assistants, phlebotomists and emergency medical technicians in Lincoln County.

The grant will be used to develop curriculum into a fast-track program and pay for instructional supplies, training and equipment. Gaston College was one of only 17 community colleges in North Carolina to receive one of the Golden LEAF Grants. For more information on the Gold Leaf Opportunities for Work grant, please contact Dr. Linda Greer at (704) 922-6266.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is a proud partner with all community colleges in the region and encourages you to find out what your community college can offer you. These are just a few examples of what our community colleges are doing to assist during this downturn. For more information on your local community college, please contact Emily Clamp at (704) 348-2732 or by e-mail at eclamp@centralina.org.



City of Kannapolis Receives Prestigious Honor

2009 Excellence in Economic Development Award

US Commerce Secretary Gary Locke announced this month that the City of Kannapolis received the 2009 Excellence in Economic Development Award for Excellence in Economic Diversification Strategies for their commitment to research-based, market driven economic development in helping grow the local economy.

Nominations are made annually in different categories and are evaluated by a Selection Panel appointed by the Assistant Commerce Secretary for Economic Development.

“The City of Kannapolis represents the best and brightest in 21st century economic development,” Locke said. “Excellence Award winners exemplify the importance of supporting regional strategies to ensure American communities succeed in the global marketplace and create higher-skill, higher-wage jobs.”

“The City of Kannapolis has done an outstanding job in responding to the changes in our economy,” Congressman Larry Kissell said. “The North Carolina Research Campus is bringing skilled, high-income jobs to an area which we all know has been devastated by the loss of our textile industry. With its efforts, Kannapolis has turned adversity into opportunity, creating a place where ground-breaking research will be achieved.”

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is a proud partner with the City of Kannapolis and congratulates them on this great honor! Stay tuned to the monthly Centralina Workforce Development Board newsletter for more information on this achievement.


Rowan County Employer Adds 30 New Jobs

PGT Industries Begins Hiring Utilizing Work Keys

PGT Industries, which has been one of the bright spots during the recession, will be adding 30 manufacturing jobs at its plant off Heilig Road in Salisbury, NC. Over recent months, the maker of vinyl and glass windows and doors has hired 90 people, bringing its workforce to about 425 in Rowan County.

For the 30 new jobs, PGT conducted a job fair at the plant from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday June 13, 2009. StaffMasters of Charlotte conducted the recruiting process.

Patti Misenheimer, regional manager for StaffMasters, said those applying for the PGT jobs had manufacturing experience, and stated that those who completed the Work Keys testing through Rowan-Cabarrus Community College had an advantage. If the applicant had completed the Work Keys testing, he or she was asked to bring those scores, which would help speed up the process.

"We're seeing more and more employers go to this career readiness (program)," Misenheimer said.

The job applicants also received a tour of the facility so they could see the environment that they could possibly be working in. The job applicants also went through one-on-on interviews, too.

"We wanted to spend some good quality time with those individuals,' Misenheimer said.

Robert Van Geons, executive director of the Salisbury-Rowan Economic Development Commission, said seeing the "Taking Applications" sign at PGT has been heartening.
PGT has quietly moved into the top five among Rowan County's biggest manufacturing employers, he said. Van Geons said PGT is "an aggressive user" of Work Keys, a job profile service which uses tests to pinpoint skills needed for specific jobs. Good scores on the four tests, which cover things such as basic math, reading comprehension and soft skills, can give workers an edge.

Misenheimer said she would encourage all people looking for jobs to use Rowan-Cabarrus Community College's career readiness center for the Work Keys testing.

"It's not just PGT" among companies relying more heavily on the tests to help with their recruiting,” Misenheimer said.

"Employers are starting to really look at those as criteria," Van Geons agreed. He said it serves as "an-agreed upon, third-party endorsement of their skill set."

PGT says it pioneered the impact-resistant window and door industry and is the nation's leading supplier of residential impact-resistant windows and doors. PGT Industries is also a current recipient of an Incumbent Workforce Development Training Grant offered through the Centralina Workforce Development Board. The company employs more than 1,250 people at its manufacturing, glass laminating and tempering plants in Florida and North Carolina.

For more information on Work Keys and Career Readiness Certification, that is now available in every county in the Centralina WDB region, please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by e-mail at dhollars@centralina.org. For more information on Incumbent Workforce Development Training Grants, please contact Vail Carter at (704) 348-2710 or by e-mail at vcarter@centralina.org. Let us know how we can help you succeed!


Extreme Makeover – Website Edition

Statesville Organizations Redesign Websites for Easier Use

Two of Statesville’s biggest promoters recently upgraded their websites to keep the city’s internet presence on the cutting edge.

The Statesville Convention & Visitors Bureau’s new, more colorful site is garnering additional interest internationally. The Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce added some new multimedia elements to its internet site, including an avatar and a video magazine. With the help of New York-based CGI Communications Inc., the chamber was able to develop several videos targeting visitors and businesses interested in relocating to the area.

The video magazine features information about economic development relocation, events and resources and programs.

“We wanted to give as much of a flavor of the community as we could,” Chamber President and CEO David Bradley said.

The Statesville Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Executive Director Libba Barrineau said the old peach-and-brown website they had needed a new look.

The multi-colored Statesville signature on the top of the green website is also featured on the visitor’s guide. The website was designed to follow the visitor’s guide, which breaks down attractions, dining, and lodging by interstate exit, Barrineau said. “We are continually adding things to that list,” she said.

In February, before the new design was launched, the website had 80,000 visitors. After the revamped site debuted in March, the number of hits went up to 150,000. Bye the end of April the hits reached 166,000.

Be sure to visit their new sites and let them know what you think of the new design and features! You can access them by clicking on the following links:
http://www.statesvillechamber.org/ and http://www.visitstatesville.org/.



Southern Power is considering expanding its generating facility off N.C. 801. The plan would add 630 megawatts of generation capacity to the existing 925 megawatt facility. Although it would not add additional employees, the construction phase could create 300 or more jobs for up to two years. Southern Power is a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company.

Rowan County Commissioners recently approved a record-setting incentive deal for this $400 million power-generating facility. The county's part is certain, but Southern Power Company's part is far from certain. It will depend on whether the wholesale power company gets the low bid on a long-term contract to supply retail power companies, such as Duke Energy or Progress Energy.

Under the deal approved by commissioners on a 4-to-1 vote, Southern Power will have a seven-year window to win a bid, get a signed contract and start construction. If that happens, the county will rebate 68 percent of the taxes paid for 10 years after the facility goes into operation.

Over the life of the grant, the county would collect $22 million and rebate $15 million to the company. The Woodleaf Fire Department would collect $1.5 million during the 10-year period, according to projection.

Using a 15-year model to show the potential benefits, the county and Woodleaf Volunteer Fire Department would collect $30 million, keeping an estimated $14.6 million and rebate $15 million to Southern Power. The figures are based on the current 59.5 cent per $100 tax rate.

Robert Van Geons, executive director of the Salisbury-Rowan Economic Development Commission, said Southern Power already has its air quality permit for the expansion.

He said the county's current incentive policy calls for an incentive of 85 percent for five years, but stressed that Rowan is competing with many other counties, including Cleveland County, which set the bar at 68 percent for 10 years. That landed a Southern Power facility in Cleveland.

The board was unanimous in supporting the company's interest in Rowan.

Please continue to look to the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s monthly E-Newsletter for current up to date information on this new development.


Raceway Walk of Fame

Mooresville Honors Auto Racing Legends

On Wednesday May 20, 2009, the Town of Mooresville held a ceremony to celebrate their continuing effort to honor North Carolina’s rich motorsports history. Race City USA unveiled its own “Walk of Fame” in downtown Mooresville, memorializing the 13 current inductees of the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame.

The five-year project – starting with an idea and moving toward installation – was completed in May along Main Street, in front of the Charles Mack Citizen Center, where more than a dozen markers were placed within the sidewalk honoring NASCAR figures such as Richard Petty, David Pearson, Bobby Allison and Buddy Baker.

Those honored – as well as family members of the late Dale Earnhardt, Tim Flock and Benny Parsons – and others attended the ceremony.

“Racing did start in North Carolina, as far as all indications are, and it’s something we should be proud of,” said Ron Johnson, chairman of the Mooresville Convention and Visitors Bureau, which funded the $40,000 project.

Each fall, noted Johnson, a new motorsports legend will be inducted in the NC Auto Racing Hall of Fame and receive his, or her, own spot on the Walk of Fame.

This is a great way to honor the racing legends who laid the groundwork for what is now a $5 billion dollar motorsports industry in the Centralina WDB region.

Please be sure to visit Mooresville and take a stroll down Main Street and check out this exciting and unique idea to honor our past and our future for motorsports. For more information on this project, please contact Emily Clamp at (704) 348-2732 or by e-mail at eclamp@centralina.org.

The attraction, known as the North Carolina Auto Racing Walk of Fame in Mooresville, features former NASCAR driver Richard Petty, outside the Charles Mack Citizen Center on Friday, May 8, 2009.
    
A tourist stops to take a picture of one of the markers on the Wall of Fame in Mooresville.

June's Business Survey Prize Winner is…

Each month, the Centralina Workforce Development Board holds a drawing from Business Surveys that area businesses have completed and posted on our website.

Centralina is pleased to announce that the winner of this month’s drawing is the Contech Steel Products in Albemarle, NC (Stanly County). Wendi Alsobrooks of Contech Steel Products completed and submitted the survey. We thank Wendi for helping us with our continuous improvement feedback process!

If you haven't completed the survey, you can do so now by going to our website. It only takes a couple of minutes and by completing the survey, it will guarantee your entry into our next drawing.

For more information on the Centralina Workforce Development Employer Survey and the business services available through the Board and our local JobLink Career Centers, please contact Vail Carter at (704) 348-2710 or by email at vcarter@centralina.org.

 

Employment Statistics
 Updated Monthly on this E-Newsletter

May 2009
(Source: NC Employment Security Commission)
County
Unemployment Rate
Persons Employed
Anson
15.1%
8,895
Cabarrus
11.4%
73,620
Iredell
12.9%
72,484
Lincoln
14.4%
34,858
Rowan
13.6%
62,177
Stanly
12.5%
27,165
Union
10.8%
82,043
Centralina WDB Region
12.4%
361,242
State of NC
11.1%
4,058,645

For more information on employment, click here



The Centralina Workforce Development Board is in YOUR Community!

During the month of June 2009, the Centralina Workforce Development Board has been actively involved with events, seminars, training sessions, and other meetings all designed to help build a better workforce for our region. Beyond our involvement with the SHARE Network Job Support event, Youth visiting the NC General Assembly, and the BICEPS and CAFÉ events detailed in this e-newsletter, here are some the activities of the Board members and WDB staff for June.

Centralina Workforce Development Board meeting - held on Tuesday June 9 at the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce in Kannapolis. Kenneth Paulus, Assistant Director at the Charlotte Research Institute at UNCC provided a very informative presentation on the research being conducted at the Institute, how knowledge from the research is transferred, and the resources available through angel investments and the Ben Craig Center, and key elements for successful entrepreneurism in the region. The Board approved the recommendations from the Youth Council for PY 2009 WIA Youth service providers and also approved PY 2009 WIA Adult and Dislocated Worker service providers. Reports from Board committees were presented. The Board approved the submission of 7 Incumbent Worker grant applications to the NC Department of Commerce; discussed the Faith-Based event held on June 9 in Charlotte for financial services individuals; received information on the Centralina Youth Services Summit planned for September 18; reviewed the latest labor market information for the region as well as the JobLink Quarterly Report. Information on regional initiatives and updates on other key workforce issues were also provided.

Centralina WDB JobLink Career Center Managers meeting – held on Tuesday June 9 at the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce in Kannapolis. Managers and WDB staff discussed the use and implementation of additional WIA Adult and Dislocated Worker funding through the JobsNow 12-in-6 Initiative and plans for LEAN for JobLink training in the fall.

Centralina WDB Workforce Readiness Committee meeting – held on Friday June 5 at Union Smart Start offices in Monroe. Chaired by WDB member Mary Ann Rasberry, the Workforce Readiness Committee heard from Carol Allen (Rowan-Cabarrus Community College) on the pilot implementation of the Work Certified program, an important element in the CRC+ strategy for the Board’s Lifelong Learning Campaign.

Centralina WDB Executive Planning Committee meeting – held on Tuesday June 16 in Concord. Committee members reviewed and provided feedback on the 2009 Board Retreat summary and strategic discussion on “next steps”, suggested agenda items for upcoming Competitive Workforce Alliance meeting, a status report on Board projects, and prepared agenda items for the August Board meeting.

Governor’s Study Commission on Public Education meeting – held on Friday June 12 at NC Biotech Center in Raleigh. David Hollars, Centralina WDB Executive Director, was appointed by NC Governor Beverly Perdue to serve on this State Superintendent’s Commission to develop recommendations on workforce, entrepreneurial, and public schools issues facing North Carolina. Final recommendations will go the Governor and the General Assembly.

R3 Center – Pink Slip Social event – held on Thursday June 18 in Kannapolis. This innovative job support/social network event was sponsored by the Centralina Workforce Development Board, Cabarrus and Rowan County JobLink Career Centers, and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and their R3 Center. The event attracted a large group of individuals seeking contacts and information on employment and job seeking services in the region.

Monroe Economic Development Commission meeting - held on Thursday June 25 in Monroe. Centralina WDB Executive Director David Hollars attended this meeting and provided participants with valuable local labor market information as well as updates on activities with the Union County JobLink Career Center and its partners.

Charlotte Regional Economic & Workforce Recovery Initiative Team meetings – held on Wednesday June 3 at CPCC Harris Campus and on Wednesday June 24 at the Charlotte Regional Partnership. Now led by Steve Partridge, this group is implementing plans and strategies to address the current and anticipated layoffs from the financial service sector businesses in the Charlotte region, as requested by Governor Beverly Perdue. Centralina WDB Executive Director David Hollars and Vail Carter, Centralina WDB Business Services Representative participated in this meeting and provided an update on specific solutions for the faith-based/community-based connections.

Union County Community Action Agency – Summer Youth Worksite Employer Orientation session – held on Wednesday June 10 in Monroe. Centralina WDB Program Associate Natasha Pender attended this event.

2009 12th Congressional District Grants Conference – held on Monday June 15 at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte. Centralina WDB Program Associate Natasha Pender participated in this annual event sponsored by US Congressman Mel Watt.

Union County JobReady Partnership meeting – held on Thursday June 18 at Union County Chamber of Commerce in Monroe. David Hollars, Centralina WDB Executive Director, attended this meeting.

Mooresville Graded Schools Career and Technical Education Advisory Board meeting – held on Monday June 22 at NF Woods School in Mooresville. David Hollars, Centralina WDB Executive Director, participated in this meeting.

Workforce Business Development and Assistance – provided by Vail Carter, Centralina WDB Business Services Representative for the following area companies:

  • Hi Tech Machine (Concord) – Cabarrus County – June 1
  • New Finish (Norwood) – Stanly County – June 17
  • Anson Children’s Center (Polkton) – Anson County – June 17
  • Rock Tenn and Mooresville-South Iredell EDC – Iredell County – June 4
  • Spiroflow (Monroe) – Union County – June 11
  • Carolina Beer & Beverage (Mooresville) – Iredell County – June 23
  • PGI Industries (Mooresville) – Iredell County – June 23
  • Powerstream Industries (Locust) – Stanly County – June 12
  • SHARE Network Access Point meetings:
    - Indian Trail First Baptist at Marshville Campus – June 3
    - Zion Missionary Baptist Church – June 17
    - First Baptist Church- West – June 19
    - Goodwill Concord, Urban League and H.O. Graham Presbyterian – June 22
  • Presented at national webinar (Connecting High-Poverty Areas with Green Jobs: Creative partnerships with Access Points hosted by the U.S. Department of Labor and facilitated by Rita Elkins of Performance Excellence Partners. 251 participants from the U.S. logged on for the live session held on June 18.
  • Participated in teleconference meeting of the Advanced Manufacturing Workgroup on June 24.

These are only a few examples of how your Centralina Workforce Development Board is actively involved with our partners in our counties every month. To find out more about getting involved with the Centralina Workforce Development Board, please contact David Hollars at (704) 348-2717 or by e-mail at dhollars@centralina.org or visit our website at www.centralinaworks.com. The Centralina Workforce Development – The Competitive Force in Our Global Economy.


New Nursing Program to Address Healthcare Need

Stanly Community College and Pfeiffer University Team Up

Two well-respected area institutions are collaborating in, an attempt to educate more nurses to help address the anticipated shortage due to more baby boomers nearing retirement.

Pfeiffer University officials announced a collaboration with Stanly Community College (SCC), which will produce more skilled and qualified nurses while helping to meet the increasing demand in the workforce. Pfeiffer recently received consent from the NC Board of Nursing and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools for the program.

The new Department of Nursing in the School of Natural and Health Sciences at Pfeiffer will offer an undergraduate program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The new BSN program is expected to produce approximately 20 additional qualified nurses annually and is accepting students for the fall 2009 academic year. The pre-licensure BSN program will be open to qualified high school graduates and college students who wish to pursue a nursing major.

The four-year program will consist of teaching and clinical experiences designed to prepare the graduates to provide a high level of care to a variety of patients across the life span and diverse population.

The establishment of the new nursing program has prompted resource sharing and plans for future educational partnerships with SCC to assist displaced workers. Pfeiffer’s nursing students will have immediate access to SCC’s state-of-the-art nursing laboratory and simulation center.

Ultimately, after construction of Pfeiffer’s new nursing skills lab, there will be two well-equipped labs available to nursing students in both programs. With the increasing emphasis on simulation technology in nursing education and growing concerns about available clinical sites, the practicality of resource sharing is clear.

“With a 35-year track record of excellence in nursing education along with its other health-related options, SCC is a major supplier of nurses to local hospitals, and is in a unique position to partner with Pfeiffer to address this important issue,” stated Dr. Chuck Ambrose, Pfeiffer president.

“I see it as a win for the people of Stanly County in that we’ll be providing more nurses,” Dr. Mike Taylor, Stanly Community College president stated. “It’ll also be a win for our nursing students whose desire it to get a bachelor’s degree in nursing.”

To enroll or for more information about Pfeiffer’s new nursing program, please call (704) 463-3427 or email nursing@pfeiffer.edu.




All-American
All-Around

Statesville Receives All-American City Title for the Second Time

A big congratulation goes out to City of Statesville! The city has received the title of All-American City from the Colorado-based National Civic League. The city was one of 29 finalists in the competition and was chosen for their efforts to enlist residents in solving the most pressing community problems.

David Bradley, president of the Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce, said the delegation was able to communicate to the judges the love that Statesville’s residents feel for their town. “You can go into a lot of communities, but you don’t feel the spirit we have,” he said.

When Statesville presented itself to the judges for the title, it depicted itself as a city that was reaching across the cultural divide to embrace a rapidly changing community and a city that was reinventing itself with the cooperation of government officials, churches, businesses and residents.

In its awards application, each city was asked to identify two problems or challenges facing the community, and two solutions that were used to address those challenges.

As solutions, they pointed to the success of the Mi Familia Institute and Fifth Street Shelter Ministries in serving the needs of its Hispanic community and reducing homelessness.

The city also highlighted the recently opened Boys & Girls Club of the Piedmont, as an example of a “youth initiative” that’s providing recreational opportunities for disadvantaged kids. In fact, the Centralina Workforce Development Board Youth Council held its May meeting at the new Boys & Girls Club in Statesville.

Statesville won the title of All-American City in 1997 for meeting the challenges of high unemployment and the need for redevelopment of blighted southside neighborhoods.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is a proud partner with the City of Statesville and congratulates them on this great award!


NC Research Campus Update

Find Out What’s the Latest with This World Renowned Biotech Development

Staffing Firm Helps Create Pipeline for NCRC Jobs
The country’s largest scientific and clinical staffing firm has been recruiting clients in Kannapolis who might land jobs at the NC Research Campus.

Aerotek, the top recruiter and provider of professionals for industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and clinical research, has held two rounds of interviews at the R3 Center in Kannapolis. The interviews will continue once a month at the R3 center for active and existing R3 clients.

Headquartered in Maryland with 150 offices across the country, including one in Charlotte, the company is recruiting for its vast scientific and clinical division. For more information please call the R3 center at (704) 216-7201.

UNCC’s Role at Research Campus Expands
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte has two different but related roles at the NC Research Campus. In one, scientists discover new ways to solve complex biological problems using computers. In the other, the Charlotte Research Institute facilitates partnerships between the university and industry, including those interested in novel ways to use computers for scientific research.

Director Dr. Robert Wilhelm likes to call the Charlotte Research Institute the “business portal” for UNC-Charlotte. “We want all faculty at the university to think about ways that the North Carolina Research Campus can be an opportunity for research and academic interests,” he said.

The institute manages business access to the university’s Millennial Campus in Charlotte. UNC-Charlotte offers many targeted research centers, including bioinformatics, energy production and motorsports, which all fall under the umbrella of the Charlotte Research Institute. The Institute opened an office in Kannapolis in June 2006; they were the first academic partner to arrive at the Research Campus.

Iredell County and the NC Research Campus: Closer Than You Think!
The Greater Statesville Development Corporation is taking on the momentum of the NC Research Campus by marketing the Barium Springs Technology Park to high-profile companies.

Officials started promoting the campus at the 2009 BIO International Convention in late May. The 477- acre site on the eastern side of the Barium Springs Home for Children campus will provide an environment friendly site within an easy distance of the NC Research Campus in Kannapolis and Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center.

The Greater Statesville area is already home to more than 30 biotech-related companies, including Kewaunee Scientific Corporation and Zimmer Orthopedic Surgical Products.

Greater Statesville Development Corporation Executive Director Mike Smith said it was important to start getting companies thinking about the Barium Springs site now to recruit future companies generated from the research conducted in Kannapolis.

Please stay tuned to the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s monthly E-Newsletter for more developments on these exciting stories. For more information on what is going on at the NC Research Campus please visit the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s website at www.centralinaworks.com.


Tell Us More

Every month the Centralina Workforce Development Board works hard trying to bring you the most up to date and innovative stories from around the region. We try to incorporate information that can be beneficial to both businesses and job seekers, as well as promote the accomplishments that are being done throughout the Centralina region The Centralina Workforce Development Board is currently undergoing a rebranding process and we need your help! We want to know what you think of the monthly E-Newsletter. We want to know if the articles are informative and if they are relevant to you and your organization. We’d like to know what you’d like to see more of in the newsletter, as well as what you’d like to see less of. We are looking to improve so that we can give back to you the most cutting-edge and informative newsletter out there.

Please send any comments about the monthly E-Newsletter to Emily Clamp at eclamp@centralina.org. If you are new to the newsletter and would like to see our previous issues please visit them at the Centralina WDB website. We thank you in advance for your feedback and your assistance in our rebranding process!


 

Centralina WDB Youth Visit NC General Assembly

Two WIA Youth Selected to Speak to the Assembly

Desmound Allen and Jamar Still, Workforce Investment Act youth participants with Salisbury-Rowan Community Action Agency, represented the Centralina Workforce Development Board’s youth services during a recent visit to the NC General Assembly. North Carolina Youth Summit committee members and youth participants were able to sit in on the Education Committee meeting on Wednesday, June 3, 2009 in Raleigh.

Senator Tony Foriest (Alamance and Caswell Counties) gave special recognition to the NC Youth Summit visiting group and allowed a few comments. Jamar Still was asked to share the purpose of the NC Youth Summit with Education Committee members. The Senator and other committee members applauded the efforts of the Summit committee and welcomed them to the General Assembly.

The Education Committee adjourned and Senator Foriest took time to shake hands, answer questions, and talk with the Summit group. Attending youth wanted to know why their schools systems struggled financially, how they can go about having their voices heard on the local level, and much more.

The group concluded the day with a tour of the Legislative Building. A total of 25 youth were present representing counties all across North Carolina. Centralina WDB Program Associate Natasha Pender accompanied the youth participants on their visit to Raleigh.

The Centralina Youth Council and the Centralina Workforce Development Board are extremely proud of all of our outstanding youth and very honored to have two of our youth address the Assembly. For more information on this event or on the Centralina Youth Council, please contact Natasha Pender at (704) 348-2725 or by e-mail at npender@centralina.org. For photos of the event and more details, visit the Centralina WDB Youth website at www.way2work.org.

Jamar Still and Desmound Allen (in the blue shirts) speaking with NC Senator Tony Foriest about issues in their community.

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Anson County Early College Program Graduates First Class

In the fall of 2005, 11 high school sophomores entered Anson County Early College (ACEC) on the L.L. Polk Campus of South Piedmont Community College (SPCC).

They were the guinea pigs, the test subjects. Four years later, less than a month before they are to walk across the graduation stage to receive their high school diplomas and associate’s degrees, eight remain.

The eight, barely knew each other when they first met in the hallways and classrooms of ACEC, a collaboration between Anson County Schools and South Piedmont Community College.

Each one had his or her own reason for trying out the new school that meshes high school courses with college courses to allow students to graduate from high school and earn an associate’s degree with five years of study. Unlike future classes, this first class got the job done in four years!

Each youth said they learned valuable life lessons from the program such as how to be an individual, leadership skills and taking responsibility for their actions. All eight enjoyed the smaller classes and the one-on-one time with the instructors.

Early college is an academically rigorous course of study that pushes each student to develop the skills necessary to be successful in college and careers. It’s a five-year high school experience in a college setting resulting in a high school diploma and associate’s degree – or two years of college course credit.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board and the Centralina Youth Council are strong partners with the Anson County Early College and support their mission and vision for the youth in the region. For more information on the Anson County Early College program or to find out if your county offers an Early College program, please contact Natasha Pender at (704) 348-2732 or by e-mail at npender@centralina.org.

The first class of Anson County Early College graduates with high school degrees in hand as well as college credit!

* * * * * * *

Spotlight on Centralina WDB Youth Council Members

Curious about who makes up the Centralina Workforce Development Board Youth Council? Keep reading to find out more about our amazing members who keep the Youth Council innovative and successful!

Centralina WDB member Gisella Aparicio-Busse has joined the Centralina Youth Council as its newest member. Mrs. Busse is the Human Resources Manager with Wireway Husky Corporation in Lincoln County. Mrs. Busse had her first contact with the Centralina Workforce Development Board through the Incumbent Worker Development Program in which the Lincoln County employer that manufactures metal pallets, wire racks and storage bins trained 152 manufacturing employees in Welder Fabrication and Certification, ESL classes, 5S and Leadership Training for Supervisors. She has expressed a true desire to make her experience with the Centralina Workforce Development Board one that has a lasting impression on the community. She is looking forward to working on the Youth Council and is excited about really making a difference in the community. Welcome Gisella!

The Centralina Youth Council and the Centralina Workforce Development Board are proud to announce that our Youth Council member Rick Brown has received the International Association of Workforce Professionals (IAWP) Citation Award. This is one of the highest honors that they present to individuals or groups. The Citation Award continues to recognize individuals and groups who made outstanding contributions to workforce development programs from a private sector or non-governmental nonprofit organization and not employed by a workforce development entity.

Youth Council member Rick Brown was recognized for his contribution in working with the hard to serve population and going above and beyond outside of the work hours to provide assistance in the community. Not only did Mr. Brown’s receive our State Chapter award but his nomination was submitted to the International organization and he received 2nd Place. He was recognized at the International Conference on Sunday June 14, 2009 in Rapid City, South Dakota. Rick is also a active team member at the Cabarrus County JobLink Career Center. Congratulations Rick!

These are just some examples of the outstanding professionals that serve on the Centralina Youth Council. Think you have what it takes to be a member or just want to get involved to assist today’s youth? Contact Natasha Pender for more information on the Centralina Youth Council, (704) 348-2725 or by e-mail at npender@centralina.org, and be sure to visit the Centralina WDB Youth website – www.way2work.org for even more great information.

David Hollars, Executive Director of the Centralina Workforce Development Board welcomes new Youth Council member Gisella Aparicio-Busse, Human Resources Manager with Wireway Husky Corporation.
 
Award winning Centralina Youth Council member Rick Brown.

* * * * * * *

BICEPS = Stronger Youth

Union County BICEPS Program Reaches More Educators

Every year the BICEPS (Business and Industry Collaborative Education Partnerships) program in Union County brings educators together to introduce them to local businesses in the county. Each year the program reaches more and more teachers, counselors, and administrative staff and becomes more and more successful. This year was no different!

The 21 middle and high school educators that participated this year’s BICEPS program were placed with such businesses as Allvac, Carolina Money Saver, Greiner Bio One, Coca-Cola, Helms Heating & Air, The Groundscrew, Locust Lumber, and organizations/ agencies including Union County Department of Social Services, United Way, City of Monroe Agricultural Extension, Aquatic Center, Union County Health Department, South Piedmont Community College, and Union County JobLink Career Center/Employment Security Commission.

The internship began on Monday with welcome and presentations from Dr. Bill Stegall of Union County Public Schools, Jim Carpenter from Union County Chamber of Commerce, David Hollars, Centralina Workforce Development Board and Chris Plate and Ron Mahle of Monroe Economic Development.

Later that day teachers went to Carolinas Medical Center-Union for another presentation and a tour of the facilities. After two days of job shadowing at their various locations, teachers finished the week with a tour at Tyco Scott Health and Safety as well as a debriefing session.

Not only did many teachers learn valuable information from these presentations and internships, but they also learned more about what Union County has to offer. Many were not aware of the different types of industries present in this county and appreciated the chance to get to know these different companies better. Teacher assignments included keeping a journal and writing a lesson plan that reflects the use of related subject matter objectives in the workplace and referencing the company specifically.

The Union County JobReady Partnership offers the BICEPS program each year with the support of grants and donations from various entities such as Union County Public Schools, Goodrich Corporation and the Centralina Workforce Development Board. This year’s program was funded by a grant made possible through Verizon. Verizon’s educational web portal, Thinkfinity.org, is an excellent resource for teachers, students and parents in every subject area. Part of the BICEPS program featured Thinkfinity. Teachers were encouraged to use Thinkfinity.org in their research and preparation for lesson plans to be written for their BICEPS experience.

The Centralina Workforce Development Board is a proud partner with the Union County Public Schools and the Union County JobReady Partnership. Programs such as BICEPS are an integral part of the Board’s Lifelong Learning Campaign. For more information on BICEPS, please contact Linda Smith, Union County JobReady Partnership Job Broker at (704) 289-5223 and by e-mail at jobready@ucps.k12.nc.us.

Educators concluded their exciting week with the BICEPS program by getting a tour at Tyco Scott Health and Safety
  
David Hollars, Executive Director of the Centralina Workforce Development Board presents to the group of educators at the recent BICEPS event held in Monroe.

* * * * * * *

Twenty-four rising high school juniors and seniors with backgrounds in high levels of science and math have been awarded a unique opportunity to participate in a week-long motorsports camp. The Motorsports Institute Summer Camp is hosted by The North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA), in partnership with the Society of Manufacturing Engineers-Education Foundation (SME-EF). The camp was held June 15-19 at Central Piedmont Community College and Charlotte area motorsports facilities. Curriculum and camp management was conducted by Ten80Education’s Fast Track RC team.

Applications were received by students from several schools in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. The students’ experience was not a typical classroom environment. Using remote control RC Cars students learned in a challenging hands-on environment that taught the correlation of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) as it related to Motorsports and Manufacturing.

Working in teams, students were challenged to design and manufacture some of the parts for the RC Car as well as solve various problems associated with manufacturing, design and engineering in a competitive racing environment. In addition, students interacted with industry professionals and experience real motorsports facilities such as NASCAR Sprint Cup team - Stewart-Haas Racing, Legends Car Manufacturer - 600-Racing, a wind tunnel at - Windshear and NASCAR Sprint Cup powerhouse - Hendrick Motorsports. The camp concluded on June 19 with a competition held inside the Hendrick Motorsports Team Center. Family members of the campers, students, educators, media and public officials were invited to attend the final day event and can contact the NCMA for further information.

In addition to SME-EF, NCMA and Ten80Education, several companies pledged support to make the camp possible. Donatos provided students each day with a complete lunch. Mechanix Wear donated safety gloves, Lowe’s donated goggles and Stock Car Steel and Aluminum, the leading provider of metal to the racing industry, provided metal materials.

For more information, please contact Shawn Stewart by email sstewart@motorsportsnc.org or by phone (704) 455-5606.

 
         
 

 

What's Happening in the Region?

Comings, Goings, Kudos…

  • Union County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Davis is the NC Southwest Regional Superintendent of the Year. He was nominated by Terry Holliday, Superintendent of the Iredell-Statesville schools and current NC Superintendent of the Year.
 
  • Greg Lowe is the new Chief Executive Officer of the Mooresville and Lake Norman Regional Medical Center. The University of Minnesota alumnus is relieving Vicki Briggs, who served as the interim CEO for the past three months.
     
  • Former Rep. Robin Hayes was appointed to the board of directors of the United Services Organization of North Carolina. Hayes left Congress in January 2009 after 10 years in office.
 
  • Karen Metz has announced that she is taking a new position at Heart of Lancaster Regional Medical Center in Litiz, Pennsylvania. She was formerly the CEO of the Davis Regional Medical Center (a current Centralina WDB Incumbent Worker grant recipient) in Statesville.
     
  • Michael Poll has recently been named vice president for enrollment management and marketing at Pfeiffer University. Prior to Pfeiffer, Poll mostly recently served as vice president for enrollment at Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He started his new position on May 4, 2009.
 
  • Sandi Lane, program chair for the Health, Leadership and Management program at Cabarrus College of Health Sciences, was awarded the college’s inaugural Anita A. Brown Leadership in Education Award. The Anita A. Brown Leadership in Education Award is named in honor of Chancellor Emerita Anita Brown, who is also a member of the Competitive Workforce Alliance Allied Health Regional Skills Partnership.
     
  • Ben Rose is the new director of the Department of Social Services in Cabarrus County. He will start his new position on July 1, 2009. Rose comes from the Chowan County Department of Social Services, where he served as director for 18 years.

  • Carolyn Mays, Cabarrus JobLink Career Center/Employment Security Commission Manager graduated from the Leadership Cabarrus program on Thursday May 21, 2009. The program was created to educate qualified business and community leaders about resources, issues, challenges and opportunities in the Cabarrus region. Congratulations Carolyn!

  • David Crosby, MA, LPC was awarded the Extra Mile Award from the North Carolina Mental Health Consumers Organization. Crosby received the award in recognition of his efforts to support mental health consumers.

  • Tom Dillard has announced his retirement as the director of the four-branch Cabarrus County Public Library system. Dana Eure, currently assistant director of the Union County Public Library, will become Cabarrus County’s new library director on July 30, 2009.

  • Ben Garrison, director of the Iredell County Area Transit System, was named recipient of the 2009 Governor’s Public Transportation Award. Garrison heads one of the state’s 68 rural single-county transportation systems, which provide both human service and general public transportation to citizens in nonurbanized areas.

  • Industrial Motion, Inc. of Mooresville has been named a 2009 Exporter of the Year award winner by ThinkGlobal Inc., publisher of Commercial News USA of the US Commerce Department. Industrial Motion founded in 1994, provides spare and replacement machine parts to US companies that have manufacturing facilities abroad.

  • Wingate University has announced it will name its College of Health Sciences in honor of Leon Levine, founder of Family Dollar Stores, Inc. The 67,000 square-foot Levine College of Health Sciences will house the School of Pharmacy and the Physician Assistant Studies program.

  • Wayne King, owner of Brightcast, recently received The President of the United States “Call to Service Award,” presented by president’s Council of Service and Civic Participation. King was nominated for the award by the Boys and Girls Club of America in Cabarrus County. The award was started by President George W. Bush after 9/11 to recognize citizens, who through service to others, demonstrate the outstanding character of America. Wayne also serves on the Cabarrus Literacy Council.

  • Gov. Beverly Perdue has launched the JobsNOW Portal (JobsNOW.nc.gov), a user-friendly resource for job seekers, those exploring new career options, and entrepreneurs looking to start, grow or relocate a business in North Carolina. The JobsNOW Portal is part of Perdue’s JobsNOW initiative, which brings together state agencies, local governments, business leaders and citizens to create new jobs, put people back to work and train and retrain our workers for success. Other JobsNOW initiatives include Perdue’s recently announced Green Energy Plan, the “12 in 6” Worker Training Program, the Charlotte Area Workforce Recovery Plan and the N.C. Office of Economic Recovery and Investment.

  • The Charlotte Regional Partnership has become the grantee and administrator for Foreign Trade Zone 57. Although designated “Mecklenburg County,” FTZ 57 extends beyond the county’s borders, including sites in Alexander, Cabarrus and Catawba counties. N.C. Commerce requested that the public/private economic development organization provide the zone’s oversight, so there is more direct regional involvement. Although FTZ 57 is the oldest in the state, it was the only one of the six N.C. foreign trade zones that wasn’t under local control. Additional information about foreign trade zones is on the Charlotte Regional Partnership’s Web site, www.charlotteusa.com.

 

• Centralina Workforce Development Board Meeting
Tuesday August 11, 2009 – 4:30 PM
Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce – Kannapolis

Centralina WDB Youth Council Meeting
Thursday August 20, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Boys & Girls Club – Concord

July 6 - July 16
 
July 18 - July 31 & September 22

 

Is it Time for More Training
Monday July 6, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Looking for Work with a Criminal Record
Monday July 6, 2009 – 2:00 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Identifying Your Career Options
Tuesday July 7, 2009 – 6:00 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

“Biotechnology 101 Agriculture”
Tuesday July 7, 2009 – 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
David H. Murdock Core Laboratory Building – Kannapolis
Registration is required: 704-216-3598 or whitea@rowancabarrus.edu

Interview Techniques
Wednesday July 8, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Looking for Work at 50+
Wednesday July 8, 2009 – 6:00 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Online Job Hunting
Thursday July 9, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Stand Out from the Competition
Thursday July 9, 2009 – 6:00 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

The ABC’s Computer Usage
Friday July 10, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Resume Clinic
Saturday July 11, 2009 – 9:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

NC Research Campus Careers 101
Tuesday July 14, 2009 – 9:30 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

“Biotechnology 101: Marine”
Tuesday July 14, 2009 – 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
David H. Murdock Core Laboratory Building – Kannapolis
Registration is required: 704-216-3598 or whitea@rowancabarrus.edu

Identifying Your Career Options
Wednesday July 15, 2009 – 9:30 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Looking for Work at 50+
Wednesday July 15, 2009 – 6:00 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Is it Time for More Training?
Thursday July 16, 2009 – 9:30 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

 

NC Research Campus Careers 101
Saturday July 18, 2009 – 9:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Identifying Your Career Options
Tuesday July 21, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

“Biotechnology 101: Health”
Tuesday July 21, 2009 – 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
David H. Murdock Core Laboratory Building – Kannapolis
Registration is required: 704-216-3598 or whitea@rowancabarrus.edu

JobsNOW: 12 in 6 Program
Wednesday July 22, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Resume Clinic
Wednesday July 22, 2009 – 6:00 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Lay-Off Survival Tips
Thursday July 23, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

It’s Not Who You Know – It’s Who You Meet
Thursday July 23, 2009 – 6:00 PM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Back to School 101
Friday July 24, 2009 – 10:00 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

JobsNOW: 12 in 6 Program
Tuesday July 28, 2009 – 9:30 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

“Biotechnology 101: Industry”
Tuesday July 28, 2009 – 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
David H. Murdock Core Laboratory Building – Kannapolis
Registration is required: 704-216-3598 or whitea@rowancabarrus.edu

Interview Techniques
Wednesday July 29, 2009 – 9:30 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Stand Out from the Competition
Thursday July 30, 2009 – 9:30 AM
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College – R3 Center
Register: 704-216-7201
Cost: Free

Wage and Hour Seminar
Tuesday September 22, 2009 – 8:30 AM – 4:40 PM
Stanly Community College – Albemarle Campus – Patterson Building
Registration Fee: $50 (includes lunch and Wage and Hour Notebook) – Pre-registration required
Registration: 800-625-2267 or go to www.nclabor.com then click on Wage and Hour Seminars then click on Registration Form


The North Carolina Workforce Development Training Center Training offers many great training sessions for every workforce development professional. The Center can even do online trainings for you and your colleagues. Some of the great training sessions include: Keeping Your Cool (When Others are HOT!), Assessment: The Foundation of Case Management, Delivering Excellent Customer Service, and Youth Services: A Variety of Topics. These are just some of the great training sessions they can put together for your team. So give them a call and see what they can do for you! Contact Robin Broome at (919) 306-1819 or visit their website for more information at www.ncwdtc.com.

 

Visit our website at www.centralinaworks.com to learn more about the Centralina WDB
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