Tackling tough issues head-on and building upon successful efforts are critical to moving the area economy forward.
Our members and staff work together to better the community in so many ways. The Cape Chamber has a committee structure focusing on development of our economy, community, and organization. Each committee has a specific purpose, goals and objectives, and works diligently to achieve results. Annually, our committees are reviewed for effectiveness as part of our business plan. This keeps our Chamber relevant and impactful.
One committee whose work has reached a new level of importance is the Work Ready Coalition. This group seeks to promote a strong workforce and educational system and includes membership from the private sector, government organizations, and educational institutions. An available and skilled workforce has never been more important to both existing businesses and new or expanding businesses.
We have many resources in place to continue to address this issue. Locally, in addition to Southeast Missouri State University, the Cape Girardeau Career and Technology Center is establishing new programs and enhancing existing programs to better train workers. Our regional Workforce Development Board utilizes federal and state money to concentrate on programs addressing regional issues. And our state Division of Workforce Development is in the middle of an effort called Talent for Tomorrow – which is examining the entire delivery system from a state perspective. Much is being done but we have much more to do.
