The City of Hampton has joined other localities across the nation in becoming a work ready community. This initiative focuses upon workforce development and helps potential employees with needed skills.

The City of Hampton is participating in the ACT Work Ready Initiative. This effort is buoyed by the city schools unique academy program whereby students are tracked into college and career prep classes. The ACT provides alternative assessments for students struggling to pass needed SOL tests for graduation and, it also provides certificate credentials which enhance employment opportunities.

A discussion with Pam Croom, who is the Workforce Development Director for the City of Hampton. Hampton is a part of the ACT Certified Work Ready Initiative, a national effort focused on building the local workforce through community-based economic development. This program aligns with local educators to help build career pathways.

Faced with mounting labor shortages, many states and industries are launching initiatives that lure high school graduates into the skilled trades. According to Shawn Johnson, industries are well aware of the shortages and what needs to be done to get information out about the opportunities that exist in skilled trades careers.

Reports indicate that many students are unaware of how to pursue a career in the skilled trades. Also, many students are unaware of apprenticeships and on the job training. Shawn Johnson, owner of Prestige Electric discusses pathways into the trade skilled field.

With baby boomers retiring and the current generation not filling these skilled trades jobs, companies are struggling to keep up with hiring trained workers. Shawn Johnson, Owner of Prestige Electric, sees technology and blue collar job branding as part of the reason for this gap.

Shawn Johnson, owner of Prestige Electric, discusses how he sees major vacancies in all skilled trades- with companies working overtime in order to finish jobs. Also, how entry into the skilled trades can be achieved through community college and trade school programs.

Shawn Johnson presents his own career journey beginning with High School Vocational Education classes through Community college ultimately leading to a license as a master electrician and operating his own company.

Sean Johnson presents his own career journey beginning with High School Vocational Education classes through Community college classes ultimately leading to a licensure as a master electrician and operating his own company.

Educationally Speaking Producers Barry Graham and Paul Bibeau profile pathways to obtain certifications and licensing which help advancement in the workplace.