Bibb County School District Educators Complete New Innovative Industry Workforce Program
Immersive Experience Program in Macon-Bibb County Connects Educators to Local Industries
MACON, Ga. — Today, 14 Bibb County educators, counselors, and work-based learning coordinators were honored at a graduation ceremony for completing an innovative six-month program that connected them with local and state industry. The Community Developers Program (CD2) is a unique partnership between the Bibb County School District and the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA).
Launched in November 2023, this program was spearheaded by Dr. Cassandra Washington, Executive Director of the Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE), and Eleyce Coleman, Existing Industry Manager of the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA). The program’s goal is to develop a skilled workforce that meets the needs of the local industry, thereby driving economic growth and prosperity in Macon-Bibb County.
“We are incredibly proud of the inaugural cohort” stated Dr. Washington. “Our educators are the foundation of the program, and they possess the enthusiasm and dedication needed to empower our students and strengthen our community. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact they will have as they bring the valuable experience gained from CD2 into the classroom.”
Over the past six months, participants of the CD2 program engaged in classroom-style workshops, attended presentations by community and industry leaders, embarked on field trips to the Port of Savannah and local businesses, and collaborated on a capstone project. These experiences are designed to foster insight and understanding of the importance of connecting students with industries and provide awareness of local job opportunities and career pathways offered by Macon-Bibb County industries.
Eleyce Coleman emphasized the significance of the collaboration with the Bibb County School District. “We launched the CD2 initiative to build a robust workforce pipeline attractive to both industry and our residents in Macon-Bibb County. This immersive program enhances the educational experience while driving positive change and progress in our area.”