York needs to have a coordinated, streamlined, and professionally managed workforce development effort.

We need to

• understand what is already available and working, as there seem to be many programs from the school district to the colleges to SC Works and more;
• see how it all fits together and where there are gaps;
• partner with organizations, institutions, and employers;
• package and market our workforce offering to potential industry (equipping the county economic development staff with the best sales materials possible);
• facilitate getting employers to the table to participate;
• provide training and facilitate internships, apprenticeships, and more;
• have and/or market job fairs and help measure success of such events.

There is so much to do that it is overwhelming. So, where do we start? First we need to audit what is out there and have it on a common list. Then, we look at how we can support what exists. Then, we identify where there are gaps and see who may step to the front to fill them.

Most of all, we need a workforce coordinator – a person or group that is championing this effort.