New study finds OCTC achieves success in enrollment for workforce development in Greater Owensboro

by Bernie Hale

Owensboro, KY (11/10/2023) — Owensboro Community & Technical College's Workforce Solutions secured remarkable outcomes in enrollment and addressing immediate workforce needs in Fiscal Year 2023. Building on new industry investments in the Greater Owensboro area, OCTC partnered with 258 companies to meet the critical need for new and upskilled employees.

According to the recently released TRAINS report, OCTC's Workforce Solutions partnered with those 258 local companies to invest $640,949 in customized employee training activities in Fiscal Year 2023, resulting in training for 19,649 (duplicated headcount) new or upskilled employees.

These crucial investments have been made possible through the KCTCS-TRAINS fund, established by the Kentucky General Assembly, to assist companies willing to invest in developing current team members.

"At OCTC, our remarkable Workforce Solutions staff and faculty work to strengthen our local economy through partnerships with companies in our entire region," OCTC President Dr. Scott Williams said. "Especially in this time of new development and growth, we must provide a strong pipeline of skilled workers and a reliable resource for our neighbors to grow and advance in their careers. The time to act is now, and we must move at the speed of business together."

Dr. Williams highlighted the significance of educational institutions collaborating with employers to develop innovative solutions that attract and retain talent while continuously strengthening skills to ensure economic stability.

"Our goal is to help our students and working Kentuckians understand their options and the needs of the local labor market that align with their interests and skills," Williams explained. "We are strategically identifying opportunities for students to gain relevant experiences and increase their earning potential to succeed in the workplace and their community."

OCTC's Workforce Solutions division continues collaborating with companies to offer customized training and related services, catering to their immediate and long-term talent requirements.

"Thanks to TRAINS funding, companies such as Domtar, Signature Health, Boardwalk Pipeline, IBEW, and countless others are ensuring their organization's workforce competitiveness through cost-effective training provided by Workforce Solutions." shared Cindy Fiorella, VP of Workforce & Economic Development.

KCTCS-TRAINS' 75/25 match could not come at a more critical time. KCTCS's first-of-its-kind Kentucky Education to Workforce (GIS) application calculates job growth by county and job sector/industry.

OCTC encourages companies that have not yet connected with OCTC's Workforce Solutions division to explore how the system can support their workforce needs. Collaboration between employers and educators is vital to effectively fill open positions and drive economic growth. Learn how Workforce Solution can help by contacting Katie.Vincent @kctcs.edu.