Georgia attracts businesses because of favorable economic and tax policies and its reputation as the Number 1 Place to Do Business for 10 years running. However, retaining these businesses will require greater alignment between education and workforce systems.
Businesses are employing multiple strategies to close skill and talent gaps. To increase the productivity and capability of current employees, businesses are relying on upskilling strategies that support the acquisition of specialized, technical skills. Corporate investment in community-based strategies is crucial because expanding the talent pool in a region ensures that industries can continue to grow and thrive.
Developing joint education and economic development strategies through intentional partnerships is the first step in a long-term agenda to more efficiently and effectively align education policy to support workforce needs.
Encouraging business and industry leaders to co-develop career pathways programming with K-12 and higher education partners and expand access to work-based learning opportunities in high-demand career areas.
School and community leaders expand access to early college and real-world learning opportunities, e.g., Advanced Placement, apprenticeships, career pathway participation, dual enrollment, internships, summer jobs.