October 20, 2011
10/21/11 Despite the national recession and high rates of unemployment, many businesses have jobs to fill but lack qualified applicants. What roles do K-12 education, post-secondary training institutions and adult learning play in providing the skills needed for the high-demand jobs of today and tomorrow? Marshall County residents are invited to a public conversation about this critical issue—21st century workforce readiness—on Nov. 16 at Swan Lake Resort in Plymouth, Ind.
Sponsored by the Marshall County Economic Development Corporation, the Marshall County Community Foundation and the United Way of Marshall County, this one-day event is part of the Community Conversations series, convened with support from Indiana Humanities and the Bowen Center for Public Affairs at Ball State University. Marshall County was one of six regions selected.
At “Education, Industry and Workforce Development: The Ties that Bind,” national, state and local experts in education and economic development will share emerging trends and opportunities to build and attract talent in order to contribute to a strong economic future in northern Indiana counties. The event will feature a keynote address by Carol D’Amico, former CEO and President for Conexus Indiana, an initiative to capitalize on emerging opportunities in advanced manufacturing and logistics, aligning resources and expertise to make Indiana a leader in these industries. Dr. A’mico, a nationally recognized expert in education and workforce development issues, has extensive experience in advising corporate and government leaders on strategies to strengthen America’s economy through a qualified educated workforce.
“Education, Industry and Workforce Development: The Ties that Bind,” will encourage participants to think strategically about current challenges and long-term opportunities to collaborate within the region, and is designed to provide a productive platform for determining innovative solutions, sharing new ideas and connecting existing resources. The event will feature panel presentations by local industry and education leaders and breakout sessions to engage discussion among participants.
There is a $20 registration fee for the day, which includes program materials and lunch. The day will begin at 8 a.m. with registration and continental breakfast, and will last until 3 p.m. To register, call the Marshall County Community Foundation at 574-935-5159, visit www.marshallcountycf.org or e-mail info@marshallcountycf.org by Nov. 11.
The cost of the speakers, planning and promotion will be covered by the Bowen Center for Public Affairs and Indiana Humanities. After the meeting, the Bowen Center for Public Affairs will provide additional consultation as needed.
Local event planning partners include:
Several statewide partners have committed to lending their expertise and support to the Community Conversation series, including:
About Indiana Humanities
Indiana Humanities connects people, opens minds and enriches lives by creating and facilitating programs that encourage people to think, read, talk and listen. As a convener, leader and partner, Indiana Humanities promotes the public humanities and engages Indiana’s community of minds to create stronger, more vibrant communities. Learn more at www.indianahumanities.org.
About the Bowen Center for Public Affairs
The Bowen Center for Public Affairs at Ball State University advances the ideals of civic literacy, community involvement, and public service exemplified by the career of Dr. Otis R. Bowen. The Center leads the way in Indiana toward an energized citizenry and vital community life. Learn more at www.bsu.edu/bowencenter.
About the Marshall County Community Foundation
The mission of the Marshall County Community Foundation is to serve all of Marshall County, its people and its future through the growth and administration of endowment funding and philanthropy. Learn more at www.marshallcountycf.org.