PEDC Launches Workforce Development Council to Support Hiring Needs in Anderson County

The Palestine Economic Development Corporation (PEDC) had the first successful meeting of the Anderson County Workforce Development Council on Thursday, January 16, 2025. The goal of this new committee is to bring together different stakeholders who want to improve hiring in Palestine, Texas. Along with inviting local employers who are seeking qualified workers, the Council welcomed educators developing training programs, and state-led resource providers.  

“A good workforce is necessary if you’re going to bring in new businesses to the community – or retain businesses that are already here and expand them,” says Charles Drane, Secretary and Treasurer of the PEDC Board of Directors. “Almost everybody on our invite list attended this meeting and some people even brought colleagues who were interested.”

The PEDC is committed to expanding the Workforce Development Council and transforming it into a valuable asset for Anderson County. Learn more about its goals and how you can get involved.

The Council Supports Training and Education in Anderson County

Workforce development is a priority of PEDC. A large part of economic development involves ensuring companies have enough workers with the right skills to remain fully staffed. Workforce development also benefits residents by giving them additional skills that qualify them for better job opportunities.

PEDC works closely with companies to learn about their pain points and business owners often discuss workforce needs. Staffing is a common topic brought up during business intelligence meetings. By creating a dedicated workforce development council, PEDC has made a space for people to speak exclusively on this topic. It also creates an opportunity for everyone who should have a voice in workforce development to have a seat at the table.  

“We brought together a wide variety of resources so we can communicate what is required for companies to relocate here, grow here, and stay here,” says Drane. “We also want to share information with the education side so they know what to provide.”

For example, representatives from Trinity Valley Community College (TVCC) attended to discuss their education resources, including their small business training grant, which allows companies to upskill their workers for free. The Texas Workforce Commission also sent team members to this meeting to highlight their work.

“This first meeting was an opportunity to kick off the council and create an environment for people to start talking amongst themselves and boosting the workforce in Anderson County,” says Drane. 

Celebrate Short-Term Wins and Long-Term Growth in Palestine

Investing in workforce development in Anderson County can support long-term job creation and help residents develop successful careers. However, the Council is also focused on having an immediate impact on the community. Companies can start taking advantage of local resources to support their employees while helping potential team members get the skills and certifications they need.

“Success will breed success,” says Drane. “The first time we hear about a company hiring people who received training from local educators will be a tremendous reward.”

Palestine, Texas already has extensive resources in place to support skills development and employee training. This council will continue to develop these resources while connecting them with any employers who need them. 

Attend the Next Workforce Development Council Meeting

Contact PEDC if you are interested in getting involved in the workforce development council. Drane says that this council will meet quarterly to respect the time of attendees and participants. The next meeting is currently scheduled for April.

While formal meetings are held quarterly, there will be opportunities for action each month. Currently, Drane is meeting with companies that want to learn more about TVCC and educational opportunities in the area. 

Even though this committee is currently in its early stages, Drane says he is committed to nurturing the fire until it can sustain itself. Any local business professionals, community leaders, and local stakeholders who want to support workforce development in the region should connect with Drane and plan for the next meeting.