Golden Isles Talent Discovery Showcase:

A Celebration of Local Trade and Talent

Last Friday, September 6, 2024, Historic Downtown Brunswick buzzed with energy as the Golden Isles Development Authority (GIDA) hosted the “Golden Isles Talent Discovery Showcase” during the popular First Friday event. From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the GIDA offices at 209 Gloucester Street became a hub of excitement, drawing students, professionals, and community members eager to explore local careers in the skilled trades.

The Talent Discovery Showcase provided a unique opportunity for attendees to dive into upskilling resources, connect with educators, and interact with engaging exhibits from area universities. The event perfectly captured the vibrant atmosphere of First Friday, and it was all about shining a light on the incredible career opportunities available right here in the Golden Isles.

“We were thrilled to highlight the vast career possibilities in our region and connect with the community in such a dynamic setting,” said McKenzie Padgett, Director of Business Development at GIDA.

Highlights from the Talent Discovery Showcase:

  • Golden Isles College and Career Academy (GICCA) Heavy Machinery Simulator: Visitors got hands-on with state-of-the-art heavy machinery simulators, experiencing the thrill of operating equipment in a safe environment. It was a hit with attendees eager to learn about the world of heavy machinery operations.
  • Coastal Pines Technical College (CPTC) Mobile Welding Lab: The advanced welding technology on display drew a crowd, offering a glimpse into the cutting-edge training CPTC provides to future tradespeople. Attendees watched in awe as the Mobile Welding Lab brought welding education to life.
  • Keep Glynn Running Campaign: The local Keep Glynn Running initiative took center stage, showcasing its efforts to promote careers in trade. Many attendees expressed interest in how they could get involved and support this impactful community campaign.
  • Brunswick Job Corps Talent Opportunities: The showcase featured insights into various trade professions and industries, with attendees exploring job opportunities and career paths available through Brunswick Job Corps. It was a valuable resource for those considering a future in skilled trades.

Kimberly Burgess, Apprenticeship Coordinator at CPTC, reflected on the success of the event: “Bringing our Mobile Welding Lab and interactive experiences to First Friday was a fantastic way to showcase the importance of skilled trade careers. We loved seeing the community engage with the programs offered by CPTC and GICCA. It was a real celebration of the future of skilled trades in Glynn County.”

This collaborative event between GIDA, GICCA, and CPTC was a testament to the broader Golden Isles Talent Development Strategy, which aims to build a robust workforce equipped to meet the region’s needs. Brian Weese, CEO of GICCA, noted, “This event was a shining example of our comprehensive workforce development strategy. By spanning all levels of learning with training and educational initiatives, we’re committed to equipping the Golden Isles with the skilled workforce needed for today and tomorrow.”

The Golden Isles Talent Discovery Showcase was not just an event—it was a celebration of local talent, education, and the bright future of skilled trades in Glynn County. For more information about GIDA and the Golden Isles Talent Development Strategy, visit keepglynnrunning.com/growglynnsworkforce.