A concurrent RESOLUTION

TO RECOGNIZE AND EXPRESS DEEP APPRECIATION TO THE SOUTH CAROLINA TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM ON "SOUTH CAROLINA TECHNICAL COLLEGE SYSTEM DAY" ON FEBRUARY 26, 2025, FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS IN EDUCATING AND TRAINING SOUTH CAROLINA'S WORKFORCE FOR HIGH-DEMAND, SKILLED JOBS IN OUR STATE.

Whereas, the South Carolina Technical College System serves more than one hundred forty-seven thousand students annually through credit, continuing education, and workforce training programs, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth and workforce development across the State; and

Whereas, the system's sixteen technical colleges have established an unparalleled record of excellence in meeting the evolving education and training needs of businesses and industries in their communities, driving innovation and supporting local economies; and

Whereas, these institutions play a critical role in making higher education accessible and affordable for all South Carolinians, particularly by serving as the primary pathway for many first-generation college students to achieve academic and professional success; and

Whereas, readySC, the state's premier economic development recruiting and training program, has been integral to South Carolina's economic development efforts since 1961, training more than three hundred twenty-four thousand individuals for high-quality jobs in our State; and

Whereas, Apprenticeship Carolina, the state's registered apprenticeship program, has garnered national and international recognition as one of the fastest-growing and most innovative programs in the country, contributing significantly to workforce advancement and industry partnerships; and

Whereas, in recognition and appreciation for the South Carolina Technical College System, Governor Henry McMaster has proclaimed February 26, 2025, as "South Carolina Technical College System Day"; and

Whereas, the General Assembly joins with Governor McMaster in expressing deep appreciation to these fine institutions and statewide programs for their role in enhancing the employability of our citizens by providing quality training and education with job-ready credentials for successful employment; and

Whereas, the General Assembly further encourages all South Carolinians to recognize the South Carolina Technical College System for their positive contributions which help to ensure South Carolina's continued economic strength through a well-educated and well-trained workforce. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, recognize and express deep appreciation to the South Carolina Technical College System on "South Carolina Technical College System Day" on February 26, 2025, for their outstanding contributions to building a highly skilled workforce and ensuring the state's continued economic strength and prosperity.

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