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IV. Addressing the Problem The results show that North Carolina employers are aware there is a skills shortage and most are taking measures to address the problem. Some of the written comments collected leads one to assume that some employers are not aware of the state and local resources available to them at little or no cost to address some of their concerns. In response to the findings in the 2007 Skill Survey, Workforce Boards across North Carolina led stakeholders who work closely with the business community and nonprofit employers to address many of the gaps identified. Actions have included additions to or changes to the curriculums at local community colleges to address the need for upgrades in machining, mechatronics, maintenance, biotechnology and several health programs. The availability of the North Carolina Career Readiness Certification program in the community college system has had a major impact and will address many of the assessment and academic issues identified in this report. The Manufacturing Extension Partner (MEP) for North Carolina is North Carolina State University. Their Industrial Extension Service has been a key partner in assisting businesses across the state to provide process improvement training and is now leading the state E3 effort to assist businesses with being more profitable while building a better workforce and a cleaner environment. Career and Technical Education in our local high schools is a means of addressing the skills gap. Finally, the Workforce Development Boards across North Carolina continue to serve as the lead planning group to keep a pulse on the needs of the local workforce and work with the economic development community to ensure that workforce skills are in alignment with their business recruiting efforts. These findings will be available for distribution to any entity, including policymakers addressing workforce needs. Each Business Service Representative affiliated with the Local Workforce Development Boards will be encouraged to host public meetings to initiate dialogue on this subject and garner more information on unique skills gaps that may exist in their respective communities. In addition to the employers and the local Workforce Development Boards, other stakeholders, including the local community colleges, universities, private trade schools, Employment Security Commission and area high school career counseling staff should make a concerted effort to address impending needs. 14 1 -4 Page 294