EDA Career Coaches Host FAFSA Assistance Program

POSTED Monday, December 16th, 2024

The Career Coaches of the EDA of Jones County took an important step in supporting students and families by hosting a FAFSA Application Assistance Program on Thursday, December 5th. This county-wide initiative aimed to educate students and parents on the significance of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and to provide hands-on assistance with completing financial aid applications.

Why FAFSA is Crucial for Students and Parents

FAFSA is a critical gateway for accessing financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships. Most colleges and universities require FAFSA submissions for students to qualify for institutional scholarships and federal or state financial aid programs. In Mississippi, colleges and universities maximize opportunities by stacking scholarships and financial aid up to the total cost of attendance. For families navigating the complexities of financial aid for the first time, events like these are invaluable.

An Event Designed for Success

Held across several schools in Jones County, the program brought together students, parents, and financial aid experts to simplify the application process and address common concerns. By demystifying FAFSA, the Career Coaches provided tools and resources to help families take their first steps toward college readiness.

The event featured insights and guidance from notable guests, including:

•Barbara Odom (Jones County School District)

•Christina Bracey (Get2College)

•Emma Brownlee (University of Mississippi – Ole Miss)

•Erin Cox (University of Southern Mississippi – USM)

•Shaterri Thompson (University of Southern Mississippi – USM)

•Valerie Gunnell (Northeast Jones High School)

These professionals played a pivotal role in making the event successful by answering questions and offering actionable advice on completing the FAFSA and State of Mississippi Financial Aid applications.

Empowering Families Through Education

The Career Coaches of the EDA of Jones County are committed to preparing local students for academic and career success. By hosting this program, they demonstrated the importance of financial literacy in the college application process. Equipping families with this knowledge removes financial barriers and opens the door to higher education for many.

Looking Ahead

The EDA of Jones County continues to support educational initiatives that empower students and strengthen the community. Through collaborative programs like this, the organization ensures families have the tools to make informed decisions about their children’s futures.

For more resources or to learn about future events hosted by the Career Coaches of Jones County, contact the EDA and follow the Jones County Chamber of Commerce social media channels.

Two Jones County Properties Earn SiteInvest Designation

POSTED Friday, September 20th, 2024

 

The Economic Development Authority (EDA) of Jones County is proud to announce that two key industrial sites in the region, the I-59 South Industrial Site and the I-59 Supply Chain Park, have been awarded the highly sought-after Cooperative Energy SiteInvest Premier Property designation. This accolade highlights the sites’ readiness and immense potential for industrial development, making Jones County a prime destination for businesses seeking expansion opportunities.
 
A First-Round Success
 
The I-59 South Industrial Site and the I-59 Supply Chain Park are among only six sites across Cooperative Energy’s service area to earn this designation in the inaugural round of the SiteInvest program. This recognition underscores the strength of Jones County’s commitment to fostering economic growth and highlights the extensive development efforts that have gone into preparing these locations for industrial use.
 
Strategic Investments in Jones County
 
To date, nearly $9.7 million has been invested in these properties through the collaborative efforts of Cooperative Energy’s Cooperative Competes grant program, the Mississippi Development Authority Site Development Program, and local contributions. These investments have been instrumental in advancing the infrastructure and overall readiness of the sites, making them highly attractive for businesses looking to establish operations in the region.
 
Ross Tucker, President of the EDA of Jones County, shared his excitement: “Receiving the SiteInvest Premier Property designation is a tremendous achievement for our community. This recognition validates the hard work and investment we’ve made to attract businesses and create jobs in Jones County.”
 
About the I-59 South Industrial Site and I-59 Supply Chain Park
 
·      I-59 South Industrial Site: Spanning 440+ acres adjacent to Highway 11 in Ellisville, MS, this site is strategically positioned near key transportation routes, including Norfolk Southern Railroad and major roadways, with access to advanced workforce training through Jones College and nearby universities.

·      I-59 Supply Chain Park: This 164-acre site, situated between Laurel and Hattiesburg, boasts prime interstate frontage and is fully equipped with essential utilities, making it ideal for supply chain and logistics businesses.
 
Economic Growth in Jones County
 
The SiteInvest program, launched in 2023 by Cooperative Energy, aims to improve the development potential of industrial sites within its Members’ service territories. Designating these two properties is expected to enhance Jones County’s attractiveness as a hub for industrial growth, positioning the region as a key player in Mississippi’s economic development landscape. Mitch Stringer, Director of Economic Development at Cooperative Energy, noted, “These designations signify a major milestone in our efforts to foster industrial growth across our service areas. The readiness of these sites positions Jones County as a top choice for business expansion and job creation.”
 
Looking Ahead
 
As Jones County continues to build on its success, the community eagerly anticipates the new business opportunities and economic impact these SiteInvest Premier Properties will bring. With unmatched infrastructure, strategic location, and support from state and local partners, Jones County is poised for a prosperous future in industrial development.
 

Kick Off Your Career presented by Jones County Career Coaches

POSTED Wednesday, September 11th, 2024

The Jones County Career Coaches proudly hosted the “Kickoff Your Career” event on September 10th at Life Church in Laurel, Mississippi. This professional development event brought together local businesses, community leaders, and high school seniors across Laurel and Jones County to build connections, inspire the students, and prepare the next generation of leaders for successful careers.

A Day Dedicated to Professional Development and Career Exploration

The “Kickoff Your Career” event was designed to help local high school seniors gain valuable insights and practical experience in navigating their career paths. The event provided a dynamic environment where students could explore various career opportunities, interact with industry professionals, and enhance essential soft skills.

Throughout the day, attendees participated in a financial literacy session, resume critiquing, and networking sessions with representatives from diverse industries. These sessions aimed to provide students with hands-on experience and practical advice for entering the workforce. The event’s focus on skill-building and real-world application made it invaluable for all who attended.

Connecting Students with Local Industry Leaders

A significant highlight of the “Kickoff Your Career” event was the involvement of local industry leaders and vendors who shared their expertise and insights with students. Participation demonstrated the wide range of career paths in Jones County, from manufacturing and healthcare to education and finance.

These local employers offered students a unique opportunity to learn about different fields, understand the skills and qualifications required, and explore potential career paths. The event’s networking opportunities allowed students to make meaningful connections that could shape their careers.

The Role of Jones County Career Coaches

The Jones County Career Coaches help guide students through career exploration activities and provide personalized coaching sessions. These sessions focus on identifying each student’s strengths, interests, and career goals, ensuring they receive tailored advice on the next steps in their educational and professional journeys.

By working closely with the students, the Career Coaches helped bridge the gap between education and employment, equipping young talent with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive job market.

Community Support for Workforce Development

The “Kickoff Your Career” event was a true community effort, demonstrating the strong spirit of collaboration that defines Jones County. We are grateful to Life Church for providing a welcoming venue and to all the participating businesses for their commitment to investing in our future workforce.

The involvement of local businesses and organizations is vital to our mission of fostering economic growth and workforce development in Jones County. Supporting events like “Kickoff Your Career,” our community partners are critical in preparing high school seniors for the professional world.

Local Expansion Boosts Jones County Economy

POSTED Wednesday, June 19th, 2024

Laurel Machine & Foundry Expands Operations, Boosts Local Economy

In a significant move for the local economy, Laurel Machine & Foundry is expanding its operations in Jones County, representing a corporate investment of more than $3.14 million. This expansion is expected to create at least seven new jobs, highlighting the company’s commitment to growth and the community.

 

Expansion Details

 

Laurel Machine & Foundry, a longstanding pillar in Mississippi’s industrial manufacturing sector, is set to enhance its manufacturing capabilities. The expansion project includes the construction of a 20,000-square-foot machining facility and a 7,500-square-foot warehouse. Additionally, new equipment will be purchased and installed to support the increased demand for their services. These services encompass a range of industrial and manufacturing needs, including computer numerical control (CNC) and manual machining, plate and structural fabrication, metal processing, and iron casting.

 

Economic Impact

 

The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) is supporting this project through the Mississippi Flexible Tax Incentive (MFLEX) program. This initiative is designed to provide the necessary assistance to companies looking to expand their operations within the state, fostering economic growth and job creation.

 

Company Legacy and Commitment

 

Established in 1904, Laurel Machine & Foundry has been a cornerstone of the Laurel community and Mississippi’s manufacturing industry for over a century. The company plans to complete the expansion within a year and aims to fill the new positions within three years. This development is a testament to the company’s enduring legacy and its continued commitment to innovation and excellence.

 

Leadership and Community Support

 

Governor Tate Reeves expressed his gratitude for the company’s ongoing investment in the state, stating, “Industrial manufacturing is at the core of Mississippi’s economy. When companies like Laurel Machine & Foundry expand, they show the world that we have the tools and workforce to drive growth in this important sector.”

 

MDA Executive Director Bill Cork also praised the company’s decision to expand, noting its historical significance and its role in the state’s recent economic growth. “MDA is proud to support Laurel Machine & Foundry as this valued Mississippi company grows in Jones County. For 120 years, LMF has been central to the Laurel community and Mississippi’s manufacturing sector.”

 

Trent Mulloy, President of Laurel Machine & Foundry, shared his enthusiasm for the expansion, particularly as the company celebrates 120 years in business. “I cannot think of a better way to celebrate 120 years of business in Laurel, Mississippi! As the fourth generation of a family-owned manufacturing company, I am excited to continue to grow our facilities in the great state of Mississippi.”

 

Ross Tucker, President of the Economic Development Authority of Jones County, highlighted the company’s commitment to the local economy. “Laurel Machine & Foundry has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, innovation, and the growth of our local economy. Providing resources and support to existing industry is an important goal for us at the EDA.”

 

Looking Forward

 

The expansion of Laurel Machine & Foundry is a promising development for Jones County, reflecting a strong partnership between the company, local authorities, and state programs. As the project progresses, it is expected to bring substantial benefits to the local workforce and economy, reinforcing Mississippi’s position as a leader in industrial manufacturing.

 

For more updates on economic developments in Jones County, follow the Jones County Chamber of Commerce on social media.

 

For further details, you can read the original announcement on the Mississippi Development Authority website.  

Top 5 Strategies for Small Businesses to Recruit New Employees

POSTED Monday, May 15th, 2023

As a small business owner, recruiting top talent is integral to your business’s success. Attracting the right people to your team can sometimes feel daunting, especially when competing with larger corporations with seemingly endless resources. However, small businesses offer unique advantages that can be leveraged in the recruitment process. Here are our top 5 strategies for small businesses to attract and recruit new employees.

1. Leverage Your Unique Company Culture

Small businesses often have a distinct and close-knit company culture that larger corporations can’t emulate. Potential employees are attracted to workplaces where they feel they can significantly impact and build meaningful relationships with their coworkers. Highlight your company’s culture in job postings, on your website, and during interviews to attract like-minded candidates.

2. Offer Competitive Benefits

While you may not be able to match the salaries larger corporations offer, consider offering other competitive benefits. This could include flexible work hours, remote work options, professional development opportunities, or additional vacation time. These benefits often appeal to job seekers looking for work-life balance and personal growth.

3. Utilize Social Media and Online Platforms

Social media isn’t just for marketing your products or services – it’s also an effective recruitment tool. Regularly posting about job openings on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, or even Instagram can get the word out to potential candidates. Additionally, ensure your business has a presence on online job boards to reach a wider audience.

4. Develop an Employee Referral Program

Your existing employees can be your best recruiters. They understand your business and likely know others in the industry who would be a good fit. Consider implementing an employee referral program that incentivizes staff who refer successful candidates.

5. Network Locally

As a small business, you have deep connections within your local community. Utilize local networking events, industry meetups, and Chamber of Commerce gatherings to meet potential candidates. Not only will this give you access to a pool of potential employees, but it also increases your business’s visibility within the community.

Recruiting new employees is an ongoing process vital to your business’s growth. By leveraging your unique advantages as a small business and using these strategies, you can attract top talent to help your business thrive. Remember, it’s not just about finding a candidate with the right skills but also finding someone who aligns with your company’s culture and values. Happy recruiting!