By Pat Bradley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-1001530.mp3
Plattsburgh, NY – President Barack Obama discussed education and focused on Community Colleges as a solution for workers seeking jobs and employers seeking skilled employees.
The Community College of Vermont works with Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, composite industries, and other manufacturers to teach individuals the skills they need for the jobs that are available. College President Joyce Judy says they are an affordable point of access for job training.
Clinton Community College President John Jablonski says President Obama recognizes that community colleges are the most cost efficient sector of American education.
Jablonski adds that the President's speech did not contain a lot of details as to what the federal government could or would do to support community colleges.
Plattsburgh North Country Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Garry Douglas says over the past twenty years community colleges have stepped in to fill a crucial economic development niche.
President Obama made a national commitment to train 2 million Americans in skills that would lead directly to jobs.