Export trade is an increasingly important element of economic prosperity. The more we know about the global economy, and the more we work together, the better positioned we will be to take advantage of export opportunities. The conference drew a number of experts in the field of economic development and export trade. Commission Meets in Mississippi Workforce training issues dominated the agenda at the October 7 meeting of the Appalachian Regional Commission in Tupelo, Mississippi. The topic was the theme of a panel discussion with area business and community leaders held in conjunction with the Commission meeting, and was the focus of a luncheon address by Mississippi Governor Kirk Fordice, ARC states' co-chairman.
Workforce development is a priority here in Mississippi, as it is throughout the Region.
Workforce training is of special urgency in distressed counties, he added. The prerequisite to creating jobs in distressed counties is creating a skilled workforce. Unfortunately, as we know, these counties have too many high school dropouts and too many adults without the basic skills to succeed in training programs and on the job. Most important, the decisions are made at home. ARC has been sponsoring the summer institute since 1991.