House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones today introduced legislation intended to close the workforce gap in the technology and other innovation sectors of Georgia's economy. Jones' will refine the HOPE scholarship
House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones today introduced legislation intended to close the workforce gap in the technology and other innovation sectors of Georgia’s economy. Jones’ will refine the HOPE scholarship in a manner that will encourage college students to pursue rigorous coursework in science, technology, engineering and math, otherwise referred to as STEM.
According to a press release issued by her office, Rep. Jones (R-Milton) said:
“This initiative will encourage our young people to develop the 21st century skills demanded in STEM fields and make Georgia even more competitive in attracting high tech companies to locate and expand in our state.”
Metro Chamber Director of Workforce Development, Amy Lancaster, had the following comment regarding the legislation:
“The business community has long recognized a skills gap in Georgia’s technology workforce, a forward leaning industry supporting high-wage, knowledge-based jobs and appreciates the continued leadership of Governor Deal and the General Assembly in finding innovative solutions to address this issue. The legislation put forth by Representative Jones encourages and supports students pursuing careers in high demand STEM fields while also addressing concern of employers who are growing jobs in Georgia. This initiative adds another building block to our on-going work with the University System and the legislature to bolster the state’s talent pipeline.”
