Grit and Growth:
Success Stories

South Central MS Works and the Central Mississippi Planning and Development District (CMPDD) are proud to support the Relaunch. Reskill. Reconnect. initiative — a powerful workforce training program aimed at helping Mississippians gain valuable skills and re-enter the workforce with confidence.
One of the most exciting success stories so far is the launch of the Spring Heavy Civil Construction program at Holmes Community College – Ridgeland Campus. This 8-week, hands-on training course is designed to prepare participants for careers in the essential field of road and bridge building and infrastructure repair — a sector that is vital to Mississippi’s growth and economy.

Students in the program receive training in construction safety, equipment handling, blueprint reading, and other critical job skills, culminating in a graduation ceremony scheduled for April 25. The goal: to provide participants with industry-recognized certifications and direct connections to job opportunities in the heavy civil construction field.

The program is powered by the Mississippi Reconnect grant and supported by a network of outstanding industry partners, including:

• Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT)
• Key Constructors, LLC
• APAC
• American Field Service Corporation
• J.C. Cheek
• Lehman-Roberts Co.
• ESI Supply
• Bracken Crane
• Puckett Rents
• Shackelford Companies LLC
• Build Mississippi
• Mendrop Engineering
• Mississippi Road Builders Association
• Mississippi Asphalt Association

These partners not only help shape the curriculum but also serve as potential employers, ensuring participants leave the program workforce-ready.

"This program is a true example of what happens when workforce, education, and industry come together with a shared purpose," said Robin Parker, Workforce Director. "We’re not just training people — we’re helping them launch careers, support their families, and contribute to the future of Mississippi."

The Spring 2025 cohort includes a group of determined and motivated students, all recipients of the Mississippi Reconnect Grant, and all committed to building brighter futures through skilled trades.

The Spring cohort includes: (front row, left to right) Abdelaili Mokhless, Titus Beverly, Johnathan Hedgepeth, John McKenzie, instructor Cham Blain, (back row, left to right) Paris Sims, Antrell Burns, Brandon Parker, Jkeivyon Tucker, Joshua Haralson, Jaylon Horton, Kenneth Green and Trevon Murriel.