Community Highlights

The morning commenced at Machine Specialties Inc. where the group learned of Guilford Apprenticeship Partners’ pathways to success from 3 of its 30 member companies. During a panel discussion, MSI, High Point Tire & Automotive and AC Corporation expounded on how they work collaboratively with Guilford County Schools and Guilford Technical Community College to attract, develop and retain skilled talent. GAP’s successes and investment in workforce has spurred job growth and was a consistent theme among those present. The panel offered perspectives from employers as well as apprentices, with a MSI apprentice speaking of merging theoretical understanding with practical experience and its foundation setting for his engineering degree attainment post apprenticeship.

Triad employers understand workers need real opportunities for reinvention. That schools at every level must get better at delivering education and training in ways that work best for students and that industry must work with employees to create those opportunities which increase access to employment and pipelines to success. Improved educational outcomes and career path promotion are essential for true health, wealth, and well-being for individuals and families.

CIC’s tour concluded at the Forge Greensboro, a recent USBA MaTCH (Makerspace, Training, Collaboration, and Hiring) Pilot Competition award recipient and Triad makerspace. It is a community where people gather to work on projects while sharing ideas, equipment, tools and knowledge. While there the council heard of the Forge’s community impact, its partnerships with GTCC and American Association of University Women (AAUW), and a testimony from adult apprentice and nontraditional student Adelana Nelson, who shared her remarkable story “from homelessness to graduation” with members to round out day. She told of how engagement with the Forge Greensboro helped connect her with GTCC where she will complete her associate degree as an American Association of University Women (AAUW) scholar.

“The Community Investment Council was thrilled to journey into the field and learn ‘in practice’ how best solutions are being applied,” said CIC incoming Chair Rochelle “Rocky” Goodwin. “Members from across the district know they struggle with some of the same challenges, but when we can change those challenges into opportunities and learn from one another, it helps smooth the path forward for a more robust economy, healthier families and communities, and making sure the employers and talent pipelines are benefitting from the solutions. We truly appreciated the chance to learn and enjoyed our experience.”