News

Governor Tate Reeves has announced that the Central Mississippi Planning and Development District (CMPDD) has been awarded the first Reconnect Workforce Training Grant, a $4.4 million investment aimed at addressing Mississippi’s labor shortages. The grant, part of the Mississippi Reconnect Program, will help provide training to over 900 individuals, equipping them with the skills necessary to fill high-demand jobs in sectors such as construction, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology.

The Mississippi Reconnect initiative, led by AccelerateMS in partnership with the South Central Mississippi Works (SCMW) Local Workforce Area and the State Workforce Board, offers short-term, targeted training programs lasting up to eight weeks. Participants will receive hands-on training designed to align with the needs of local industries, helping them secure employment or advance in their careers. The program also provides wage reimbursements and stipends to support both participants and employers.

Dr. Robn Parker, Workforce Director at CMPDD, emphasized the program’s transformative potential, "This $4.4 million grant will have a tremendous effect on our local workforce. By offering targeted, short-term training, we are meeting the immediate needs of both job seekers and businesses. Our goal is to ensure that participants are prepared for high-demand roles that are essential to Mississippi's economic growth."

CMPDD will collaborate with BuildMS, Hinds Community College, and Holmes Community College to deliver these industry-focused training programs. The initiative focuses on addressing critical workforce shortages while creating pathways to sustainable careers. These partnerships are essential in ensuring the programs meet industry requirements and provide participants with the skills needed to succeed.

Dr. Parker further noted the importance of collaboration in this initiative, "Working with BuildMS, Hinds Community College, and Holmes Community College, we are creating pathways for individuals to gain valuable skills while supporting the workforce needs of our region’s employers. This collaboration is key to driving economic growth and long-term success for our participants."

Through this initiative, CMPDD and its partners will address critical labor shortages in priority industries, aligning with Mississippi’s demand-driven workforce development strategy. The program ensures that Mississippi’s workforce is equipped to thrive in sectors that are pivotal to the state’s economic future.