What's Happening?
Owensboro Community & Technical College (OCTC) is collaborating with the Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club to introduce an eight-week Workforce Academy aimed at local youth. The initiative, starting this Wednesday,
is designed to enhance career exploration, workforce readiness, and postsecondary planning for young individuals. Funded by Kentucky’s Kids Workforce Grant, the program is part of a broader statewide effort led by the Kentucky Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs and the Kentucky Education & Labor Cabinet. The academy will be hosted at OCTC's downtown campus, engaging 24 students from Owensboro and Daviess County in weekly sessions that focus on high-demand careers and employability skills. The curriculum covers leadership, healthcare, carpentry, advanced manufacturing, technology, and logistics. The program will culminate on April 1 with a completion ceremony for the first cohort.
Why It's Important?
The Workforce Academy represents a significant investment in the future of local youth, providing them with essential skills and knowledge to navigate the job market successfully. By focusing on high-demand careers, the program aims to address workforce gaps and prepare students for industries that are crucial to the region's economic growth. The collaboration between OCTC and the Boys & Girls Club highlights the importance of community partnerships in fostering educational and career opportunities. This initiative not only benefits the participants but also contributes to the broader goal of workforce development in Kentucky, potentially leading to increased employment rates and economic stability in the area.
What's Next?
Following the completion of the first cohort, the program may expand to include more students and possibly additional career fields. Stakeholders such as local businesses and educational institutions might become involved to further enhance the program's offerings. The success of the academy could lead to similar initiatives across the state, supported by the Kentucky Education & Labor Cabinet. Additionally, the Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Club offers the E.K. Jack Barnard Scholarship, providing financial assistance to high school seniors, which could further support students' educational pursuits.
