Commerce Secretary Harry M. Lightsey III had the opportunity to meet with technical college commissioners from across the state on Wednesday to discuss the importance of economic development stakeholders and education officials working together to ensure the success and future of South Carolina’s workforce. Secretary Lightsey joined the S.C. Association of Technical College Commissioners in Columbia for a panel discussion on the intersection of commerce and workforce.
Secretary Lightsey shared with the commissioners how Commerce is working with the business community and education leaders to help address workforce hurdles, and how the agency supports existing industry by identifying staffing challenges, providing resources and connecting companies with other appropriate partners – like the S.C. Technical College System – to prepare workforce to meet industry demands. He also addressed the role of emerging technologies and disruptive change, emphasizing that the state’s workforce must be trained to remain on the cutting edge of industry.
South Carolina has transformed into a global industry leader, and workforce development plays a vital role in securing the state's reputation as a competitive place to do business.