| Basically, this means jobs and new business for the North Central Gulf Coast. The development of international trade must be encouraged. In addition, support for workforce programs, the military presence in the region and attention to its research universities are vital to ensure continued economic growth. The Coalition partners are committed to an agenda that embraces issues shared by all. |
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LEADING
PRIORITIES FOR THE REGION IDENTIFIED BY THE
COALITION |
- A strong emphasis must be placed on workforce development programs to enhance skills of the existing workforce and provide opportunities for workers as new businesses locate in the region. A database of "underemployed" workers should be created to provide a resource to companies seeking skilled workers.
- Support for the military infrastructure throughout the region is vital. Military establishments and contractors in the region provide thousands of jobs. In addition, military personnel and retirees form a largely untapped labor pool of valuable experience that could be a major business location advantage for the region.
- The region will partner to build a center for trade in the Western Hemisphere and with other trading partners worldwide. This may include joint international trade ventures, possibly including the opening of trade offices in overseas markets as well as initiatives to maximize the advantages of the region’s ports and airports.
- Continued support for the funding of research universities is vital as these institutions develop the technologies of today that lead to the business and jobs of tomorrow.
- Cooperative ventures should be established in e-commerce, marine fabrication and in the development of regional port centers.
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