Workforce Development

The Upper Savannah Council of Governments Workforce Development Division assists employers and job seekers in the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick, Newberry, and Saluda.

Businesses can receive support with recruiting, screening, training, and retention of qualified candidates. For a full list of services, visit: Business Services Menu. Statistical labor market data is available upon request.

Job Seekers can access assistance with finding and applying for jobs, as well as information on educational and training programs. SC Works Centers offer one-hour workshops on various topics. Eligible individuals may also access specialized services such as career counseling, internships, and training through the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA).

A comprehensive program for economically disadvantaged Youth (ages 14–21) includes internships, mentoring, and skills training.

The Workforce Development Division implements policies set by the Upper Savannah Workforce Development Board, using WIOA funds and other resources to run a regional workforce development system. Key partners in this system include the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, Eckerd, Department of Social Services, Commission for the Blind, Adult Education, and the S.C. Vocational Rehabilitation Department. Our collaboration with these partners is the key to our success.

You can find out more about our services and our centers at www.upperscworks.com.

Workforce Development Board

The Upper Savannah Workforce Development Board is a volunteer-governed organization that develops policies and oversees local workforce initiatives in collaboration with elected officials. It uses funds from the Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act and leverages other resources to operate a regional workforce development system.

How to Get Appointed
Board members are appointed by county elected officials, based on criteria set by the Governor. Membership includes representatives from business, education, community organizations, economic development, public services, vocational rehabilitation, and labor groups. For more information, contact Upper Savannah Workforce Division at (864) 941-8074.

Board’s Function
The Board connects businesses and labor with workforce needs. Key functions include:

• Providing a forum for public and private sector leaders to address regional workforce needs
• Promoting strategies for lifelong learning and skill improvement
• Developing new training programs
• Overseeing local workforce programs, including the One Stop Career Center
• Advising elected officials, employers, and agencies on workforce policy
• Coordinating with economic development efforts and promoting collaboration
• Reviewing local plans and grant applications to ensure service coordination and goal achievement

On the Job Training Program

Hire the right talent and save! Get reimbursed for 50-75% of the costs to train new employees. Growing your business is as simple as 1, 2, 3:

1. Tell Us Your Hiring Needs
   You will be asked to provide some basic information about your business, the position(s) you need to fill, and any employees training you currently conduct.
2. Develop the Right Training Plan
   We will provide you with a standard training plan for the position you need to fill. You can either use the training plan “as is” or work with us to customize it for your specific position. You will use this as a guide to train your new employee(s).
3. Begin Training Within 1-2 Weeks
   Select the candidate of your choice, and you could begin training in as little as 1-2 weeks. Training may last up to 12 weeks. Candidate must be WIOA eligible prior to hire.

To find out more about the OJT Program, contact Kal Kunkel, Workforce Development Director.