Will Green, president and CEO of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, says BayouWorks is designed to help Louisiana employers train and retain workers as billions of dollars in new projects come to the state. Modeled after Michigan’s successful “Going Pro” initiative, the program would help offset the cost of apprenticeships, certifications, and workforce training. Green says BayouWorks is about keeping talent in Louisiana while giving workers skills that lead to higher wages and long‑term opportunity.