Workforce Development
In the four years that Georgia technical colleges have offered workforce development certification programs, the agency has made important contributions to the future of Georgia’s manufacturing, service, and construction industry sectors.

The Service Industry Academy—a unique collaboration among businesses, communities, and DTAE now has facilities in Columbus, Savannah, Atlanta, Rome, and Augusta. More and more companies are requiring existing employees to complete the program, and some tie graduation from SIA to internal promotion.

With the support of the participating business partners, a curriculum designed to teach basic and advanced skills in customer relations, and an innovative plan that combines workforce training and high-school students, the SIA has become a vital link in the expansion of Georgia’s trained labor pool. It helps attract new businesses to the state.

Certified Economic Developer Trainer (CEDT)
During FY01 20 students in CEDT Class VII successfully completed training and received certification. Additionally, 21 students in CEDT Class VIII attended five CEDT training sessions and completed 3 independent projects, with graduation projected for December 2001. This 18-month certification program strengthens the infrastructure for delivering consistent and high quality training services throughout Georgia’s system of technical colleges and Quick Start. The CEDT program originated in 1988 and DTAE currently has 95 active CEDTs.

Communications
Economic Development Programs is also responsible for DTAE communications. Major highlights in communications for FY 01 include the statewide roll-out of the name-change ceremonies, beginning on July 6, 2000 when the change of name to technical college became official for 18 schools. This campaign — effective and cost-efficient — involved the public relations professional from every technical college working together to design and implement all aspects of the events and associated public relations and advertising.

Another major aspect of DTAE communications is the DTAE web. Over a half-million visitors from across the state, country and world have accessed the DTAE website. This essential communications tool provides information on all facets of the operation of the agency, including economic development programs, adult literacy, technical education, links to the technical colleges, employment opportunities, and online versions of major publications.