KILGORE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION LAUDED FOR WORKFORCE EXCELLENCE PROGRAMS

Kilgore Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) has received the Texas Economic Development Council’s 2024 Workforce Excellence Award, which recognizes exceptional workforce initiatives by Texas communities.

“I would like to extend my appreciation to Dr. Brenda Kays, Kilgore College President, for her unwavering support and leadership, as well as thank my colleagues at the Longview Economic Development Corporation and the many supportive local businesses, without whom we could not make regional progress. This journey has been marked by perseverance, dedication, and collaboration,” said KEDC Executive Director Lisa Denton.

Working together, the EDCs, college, businesses and local government leaders have implemented several initiatives that elevate the talent pool serving East Texas.

“Kilgore College’s Advanced Manufacturing & Industrial Technologies program and the creation of their Transportation Institute exemplify a commitment to meeting industry’s evolving needs,” Denton said. “Additionally, the Health Science Center, established through a public-private partnership with the City, Kilgore College, and Christus Good Shepherd, underscores our community’s dedication to enhancing healthcare education and services.”

“Through the Big Techs Industry Tours program, we enable area residents to explore local innovation and advanced manufacturing, spotlighting career opportunities,” added Denton. “For a community our size, we have a lot going on.”

Kilgore received the award in the Population Less than 15,000 category. Applications were reviewed based on innovativeness, transferability, community commitment and leverage, measured objectives, and secondary benefits. The awards were presented at the Texas Economic Development Council’s 2024 Mid-Year Conference, held last week in Conroe.

For more information about Kilgore’s business-friendly environment and KEDC’s initiatives visit www.kilgore-edc.com.

 

About Texas Economic Development Council

The TEDC was organized in 1961 and provides information, education and legislative services to its members to foster the expansion of existing businesses, the location of new firms and the development of strategies that promote a positive business climate in Texas. With approximately 1,100 members, the TEDC is the largest state economic development association in the nation.

 

About Kilgore Economic Development Corporation

Kilgore Economic Development Corporation’s mission is to enhance a business climate conducive to job creation and retention, improving the standard of living for Kilgore residents. The organization is funded by a dedicated sales tax approved by voters and directed by a five-person board. KEDC is managed by a staff of four with certifications in economic development and economic development finance. In the past five years, KEDC staff have closed projects that represent just under $292 million in new and retained capital investment and nearly 2,500 jobs under contract.