Monday, August 29, 2011

With a million Floridians still out of work, Gov. Rick Scott has a tall mountain to climb if he's to make good on his promise to create 700,000 new jobs over the next six years.

This was another interesting article. Gray Swoope, Florida's Enterprise Florida head and soon to be Secretary of Commerce met with local business & political leaders in Pensacola to discuss Governor Scott's job creation plan. Read the full article here - http://bit.ly/pgNf17

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Workforce Florida announces $2.2M in transportation training funding

Just read this article and wanted to share it with you: http://bit.ly/rtvlsF

Florida transportation industry workers will get a skills upgrade boost through a state-funded training opportunity through Workforce Florida in the amount of $2.2 million. Now, here is how the $2.2 million will be allocated:

$987,000 will be used to train about 1,000 new and current workers at port-related, manufacturing and logistics businesses. This portion of the money is aimed at retaining jobs and expanding international trade. Instruction will take place at the University of North Florida.

$630,000 will be used to improve skills for employees at air cargo-related firms. This training will take place at Broward College.

$600,000 will be used to create up to 15 career academies in high schools throughout the state, focusing on international trade.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

State of Florida Recognized for Workforce Training Programs

I read this article about Florida's ranking as number one for its workforce and training opportunities in the Enterprising States report. Last year, Florida ranked second. This is a great accomplishment, as it makes the State more attractive to business development and growth. The State of Florida is showing its dedication to upgrading the skills of its workforce. Great Job!!

To read the full article, click the following link: http://bit.ly/pv9kHX

Monday, August 8, 2011

How To Overcome Industry Changes That Affect Your Business

I recently read an article written by Jerry Osteryoung called "Beware of industry shifts" (http://bit.ly/nt1PDt). To briefly summarize the article, Mr. Osteryoung addressed how many industry changes are a result of changes in technology. According to Mr. Osteryoung, these changes cause disruptions.

This made me think of how training your employees can be one way to adapt to industry changes. As a business owner, you have an option of crumbling under these changes, or finding ways to overcome them. It goes without saying that if you choose not to acclimate yourself to inevitable changes, your business may not succeed.

A better suggestion would be to take on these changes head on. The best way of addressing industry shifts is to train your employees. A good example would be businesses in the Information Technology industry. We often see that as technology advances, businesses in these industries must prepare their employees. As your clients request these new services, it would be in your best interest to be able to provide them.  If not, clients will search elsewhere to find it.

As a business owner, it is your duty to recognize the inevitable changes in your industry. However, when these changes occur, don't shy away. As your industry encounters these changes, prepare your team for them.