Leon Works Expo

About the Program

Category: Community and Economic Development (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

In the next five years, Leon County and its surrounding counties will have over 27,000 new job openings that will require more than a high school diploma, but less than a four-year degree. These skilled careers maintain the local economy, build marketable skills for the County’s workforce, and provide essential services that are needed in the community. However, many jobs in the skilled workforce nationwide will go unfilled due to a lack of training and interest. To help fill the anticipated gap in our local skilled workforce, Leon County began hosting the Leon Works Expo, an annual event designed to raise awareness of career opportunities in the local skilled workforce and to connect area high school students and citizens to these jobs and training opportunities. The Leon Works Expo, held annually in the fall, connects participants with area businesses, academic partners, and City and County departments to learn about local skilled careers and vocational training available throughout the region. This unique one-day event also provides participants with information about certificates, apprenticeships, and educational opportunities to begin their own journey in the skilled workforce. In just the two years since the Leon Works Expo began, Leon County has reinvigorated community interest in skilled trades and has connected more than 1,100 citizens to career and training opportunities to retain workforce talent and support sustainable business expansion in our community.