Workforce Development

The Chamber recently adopted a position declaring that public education is the community's top economic and workforce development priority. The chamber works closely with business and industry creating a bond between them and our school system. The Chamber recognizes that public education is the heartbeat of our workforce. Having an available workforce with marketable skills is vital to attracting new industry to Jackson. Listed below are some of our effective programs.

Faculty in the Factory

Each summer, as a part of this program, as many as a dozen teachers are employed by a local business or industry. This program allows teachers to assess the needs of the workplace and to adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. Teachers gain valuable knowledge from employers that is then transferred to other faculty members and to students. This program has received a "best practice" award from the Tennessee Department of Education.

Partners in Education

The Partners in Education program (P.I.E.) is designed to help up-and-coming students in our community become the very best they can become. The program creates a working partnership between the business community and the schools. PIE was created to benefit everyone involved: students, teachers and partners. Currently, we have over 200 partners and are always looking for more. For additional information or to become a Partner in Education, email sajones@jacksontn.com.

Industry Roundtables

The Chamber organizes a forum every month for our area plant managers to share plant activity, projections for expansions, layoffs, union activity, etc.

There is an organized effort by area human resourcesmanagers to gather once a month to share information on wage and benefit increases, insurance costs, etc. The chamber's manager of research and economic development is in attendance to stay connected.

The ultimate goal of the above initiatives is to create the workforce that is desired by any business or industry looking for a place to prosper. This makes a positive impact on the economy, and we all may reap the benefits.