Bryan and panelists on Tuesday during the third installment of the Governor’s Workforce Development Summit. By. GOV'T HOUSE
Governor Albert Bryan on Tuesday initiated the third installment of the Governor’s Workforce Development Summit. This year's event, with the theme “Seize the Moment: Take Charge of Your Tomorrow,” is being conducted across St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. It seeks to underscore Mr. Bryan's dedication to nurturing the local workforce, according to Gov't House.
Mr. Bryan was accompanied by Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach and Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy for the summit's commencement. The trio set an ambitious and motivating agenda for the attendees.
Drawing stakeholders from the breadth of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the summit concentrates on devising strategies and spotting opportunities that can lead to a robust and adaptable workforce.
Mr. Bryan led a notable panel discussion, “Leveraging Partnerships for Economic Growth and Sustainability”. Panelists partaking in the dialogue included:
- Keith O’Neale, Jr., President and CEO, O’Neale’s Transport Inc.
- Samuel Rey, President/CEO, Host-U Services & Training Consultants.
- Dr. David Hall, President, University of the Virgin Islands.
- Jed John Hope, CEO, Strategy Finance Technology.
Central to the discussion was the indispensable role a competent workforce plays in catalyzing the territory's economic augmentation and sustainability. The conversation covered pivotal themes: aligning workforce enhancement with predominant sectors, attracting and sustaining local talent, and utilizing workforce development to propel community prosperity.
Tuesday's summit, held at the Caribbean Cinemas on St. Croix, witnessed an impressive influx of participants on its first day. Several high school students and various business representatives from the island attended.
With the territory flaunting low unemployment figures - 3.4 percent in St. Thomas and St. John and 3.7 percent in St. Croix, Governor Bryan accentuated the urgent demand for skilled labor. He also highlighted what he said were the many opportunities unfolding as the territory undergoes economic and infrastructural growth.
In a follow-up to his initial remarks, the governor extended his gratitude to Executive Director Sonia Boyce and the Virgin Islands Workforce Development Board members for orchestrating this year's summit.
"The 2023 Governor’s Workforce Development Summit stands as a testament to our dedication to the prosperity of the Virgin Islands,” Governor Bryan said. “Together, we will seize this moment to shape a brighter tomorrow, where our skilled workforce drives sustainable economic growth and prosperity for all.”
For those interested in revisiting the discussions and presentations, the Governor’s Workforce Summit can be viewed at https://fb.watch/nBnC7RsK8U/.
