March 7, 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Nick Fuhrman
270-781-3200; nick@bgchamber.com
CHAMBER RECEIVES “KENTUCKY WORK READY COMMUNITY” HIGHWAY SIGN
BOWLING GREEN, KY— The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce today became the proud recipient of a regulation highway sign proclaiming its “Work Ready Community” status from the Kentucky Workforce Investment Board.
“We believe this is a true ‘sign of the times,’ as the primary focus for our Chamber of Commerce will be upon talent and innovation,” remarked Brad Howard, Chamber Board Chair, as he accepted the large highway sign from Tom West, Executive Director of the Kentucky Workforce Investment Board.
“We are honored to be one of the first communities in Kentucky to be named Work Ready,” said Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon. “Our community already exceeded the majority of these criteria, and our strong community partnerships are committed to continuing our work to develop an excellent workforce here.”
City of Bowling Green Mayor Bruce Wilkerson said, “Being a Work Ready Community is yet another accolade that attests to the quality of our labor force and the strength of our educational institutions. I’m always proud to tell people about our exceptional community, the assets of which are heightened by this designation.”
Ron Bunch, Chamber President and CEO, observed, “As one of Kentucky’s very first Work Ready Communities, we are especially proud to receive this visible insignia to help tell visitors what we already know: Warren County is a place where we nurture and value our talented workforce.”
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About the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is a 5-Star Accredited Chamber by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and was named the 2009 Chamber of the Year by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. As the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,100 partners and is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational initiatives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region.
About Work Ready Communities
A Certified Work Ready Community is a Kentucky county which has achieved excellence in the development of its workforce.
The Kentucky Workforce Investment Board certifies counties based on established goals for six criteria:
1. High School Graduation Rates
2. National Career Readiness Certificate Holders
3. Community Commitment
4. Education Attainment (Associates Degree or Higher)
5. Soft Skills Development
6. Internet Availability
Meeting these standards requires the engagement of community leaders in economic development, business and industry, education, local government and workforce development, assuring that delivering a skilled workforce is a comprehensive community commitment.