Elevating West Virginia’s Work Force
From The Governor’s Desk
A weekly column by Gov. Joe Manchin
Earlier this week, I joined WorkForce West Virginia and Microsoft Corporation to announce a program aimed at helping our residents further their education and strengthen current skill sets. The launch of Elevate America is another step in our efforts to advance technology and work force skills.
The goal of Elevate America is to teach or enhance the technology skills of thousands of West Virginians, which will help them succeed in the 21st Century. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in five years more than three-quarters of all jobs in the United States will require at least a basic level of technology skills. So it is essential that we increase and expand training and education opportunities to our work force.
This free online initiative is designed to accelerate the work force readiness of individuals by introducing and training them on a variety of Microsoft Office products. Knowledge and proficiency in technology is key in job placement and job enhancement and is an essential component in helping our population compete for computer technology positions.
I am grateful for Microsoft, WorkForce West Virginia and the community partners across the state who have come together to offer this work force development tool. It’s the commitment, resources and expertise of governments, schools, community organizations and private companies that make programs and initiatives such as Elevate America successful.
As you are aware, much of my attention and energy lately has been focused on education. I firmly believe we need to make changes to our education system in order to see our children and grandchildren obtain the necessary skill sets to lead successful lives. I also firmly believe that education doesn’t stop with our children.
We’re never too old to learn or continue our education. Our state’s adults also deserve the chance to further their education and improve their skills, especially in the evolving world of technology.
I’ve said this many times, West Virginia’s greatest resource is our people. If we are to expect them to succeed we must continue to encourage additional education and make available training opportunities that will equip them with the skills they need to stay competitive.
To learn more about Elevate America, visit www.workforcewv.org or call 1-800-252-5627.