Economically Speaking: Conference to focus on work force, training

Joseph L. Driskill is the director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

Jobs and a skilled work force are the keys to economic prosperity and sustained economic growth for Missouri_s families and communities. We are now competing in a global economy, which places an increased value on the quality and skills of our workers. We must do things much differently to retain and create quality jobs and ensure our workers have the skills they need so that we can keep up in this new economy,

This added emphasis on work force and training is the focal point of the 21st Annual Governor_s Conference on Workforce Development. The conference will be held Oct. 8-10 at Tan-Tar-A in Osage Beach. The conference is expected to draw hundreds of work force development professionals, work force investment board members, and employment and training service providers.

Sponsored by the Missouri Division of Workforce Development, the conference theme is _Increasing Business: Advancing Workers, Business and Economic Growth._ The conference is designed to provide informative sessions, dynamic keynote speakers and excellent networking opportunities.

Gov. Bob Holden will deliver the keynote address on the opening day of the conference and will present _alumni awards_ to individuals who have successfully completed job training programs through Missouri_s work-force development system and are now gainfully employed.

Many of the award winners have overcome financial and emotional obstacles to achieve their goals. It is a pleasure for us to have the opportunity to recognize our alumni and congratulate them for their efforts. Providing training to our workers is crucial to improving their lives and bettering their chances for future success.

Conference participants will be able to attend sessions covering topics such as apprenticeship programs, forming partnerships, enhancing outcomes, service integration, temporary assistance for needy families and meeting employers_ needs.

Our work force is the greatest resource we have as a state and education is a key component to guaranteeing a qualified work force. The Governor_s Conference on Workforce Development is one way in which we can work directly with our businesses and job seekers to provide the information they need to succeed. We are focused on building the partnerships between the public and private sectors to help our workers, communities and businesses remain competitive in the years ahead. The conference is an invaluable way to accomplish this goal.

Other highlights of the conference include an exhibit hall with valuable information on the latest in programs, products and technology. A technology resource center will provide computers for attendees to learn about workplace e-tools such as GreatHires.org, Missouri Toolbox and Missouri Education and Career Hotlink.

The Governor_s Awards will be presented on the final day of the conference to service providers across the state who have submitted outstanding work force development initiatives.

For more information on the 21st Annual Governor_s Conference on Workforce Development, go to www.mis souridevelopment.org/wfd or call the Division of Workforce Development at 573-751-2816.