(Danville) — Three area colleges are joining forces to trained more highly-skill workers.
Leaders of Danville Community College, Southside Virginia Community College and Patrick & Henry Community College signed an agreement on Monday to expand building trades training programs through Career and Technical Education (CTE) academies, dual enrollment opportunities, and early college programs.
State Community College Chancellor Dr. David Doré says this will help meet the growing demand for skilled labor in the construction and building trades sectors. “Regional collaboration between our colleges and industry are critically important, both to our understanding of the Commonwealth’s workforce needs and the ability to expand training programs that are in great demand from employers,” said Dore. “I am grateful to our colleges, local school divisions, and partners for their continued innovation and commitment to providing life-changing opportunities for Virginians in Region 3 and throughout the Commonwealth.”
DCC President Dr. Jerry Wallace says this will help students across Southside Virginia have access to the training and education they need to succeed. “Today’s signing signifies the strength of our regional collaboration and our shared commitment to building a skilled workforce capable of driving the construction and housing industries forward,” said Wallace. “By aligning resources and expertise, we are ensuring that students across Region 3 in southern Virginia have access to the training and education they need to succeed in these high-demand fields.”
Dr. Greg Hodges, President of Patrick & Henry Community College, says this partnership will fill a gaping hole in the regional workforce. “”Our goal is to ensure students earn a degree or credential that will ensure their future success,” Hodges said. “We are honored to partner with other Region 3 institutions to support students as they work toward a financially stable future in a career that is both critical for our area and of great worth regardless of where they choose to live.”
Dr. Quentin R. Johnson, President of Southside Virginia Community College, emphasized the long-term benefits of the collaboration. “We recognize that collaboration is key to empowering our communities. Partnering with DCC and P&HCC allows us to enhance workforce training initiatives, ensuring that our students gain the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market,” said Johnson. “Together, we can create a stronger, more resilient workforce for our region.”
The three schools have already partnered on new workforce programs, expanded certifications and apprenticeships, and the development of state-of-the-art learning facilities.