Workforce training, transportation and economy topped the list of topics up for discussion Wednesday, August 21 when the president and CEO of the state’s chamber of commerce spoke to the Louisville Rotary Club.
Lex Taylor of Taylor Machine Works and also the MEC Chairman introduced Scott Waller, head of the Mississippi Economic Council, to the Rotary Club.
Waller who was appointed in 2018 is only the fourth CEO in MEC’s 69-year history. He previously served as executive vice president and chief operating officer at MEC, where he refined and deployed a comprehensive advocacy plan by building strong relationships with members of the Mississippi Legislature and bolstering involvement among MEC’s membership.
Waller emphasized at the meeting the value of training programs in matching people with suitable jobs.
“It’s extremely important that we improve our workforce,” Waller said, “When you have a low unemployment rate, and that many jobs available, we need to make sure we’re focusing on getting the training for our citizens to allow them to be productive citizens in our workforce. That’s the bottom line. There are jobs available, and if we’re going to attract more jobs we have to make sure we have the workforce in place to do that, and that begins with making sure we have workforce training programs that are focused.”
Waller also touted the skills training and certifications that are offered in the state at high schools and community colleges that allowed students to go directly to work in their desired fields.
He explained the key in the new labor market is dependent on creating an economic environment that allows individuals to secure a new workforce currency that includes both college credentials and industry credentials, along with life and practical skills. The future of Mississippi relies on ensuring citizens have the ability to acquire the skills necessary to gain employment with high earning power.
“Completion of a four-year college degree is not the only route to employment with a high earning potential. In fact, only half of opportunity occupations require a four-year college degree, but do require some form of industry credential,” stated Waller.
The Mississippi Economic Council has been the voice of Mississippi business since 1949. MEC deals with broad issues that relate to businesses through Advocacy, Research, Resources and Leadership.
