Community colleges are expected to contribute to economic development efforts by implementing new programs that respond to the needs of business and industry. Program development is complex, especially for community colleges in rural areas where business and industry are scarce. This qualitative study explores the factors that influence successful…

This paper describes the results of a participative planning class held in economically dis-advantaged communities in east Tennessee. The class follows a structured method, which includes community workshops and project development, in dealing with the communities. Among many observations gained in eight years of running the class are that…

The purpose of this study was to better understand the perceptions of employers and graduates regarding the applied baccalaureate degree when conferred by community colleges. By better understanding the perceptions of employers and graduates, community colleges considering offering applied baccalaureate degrees will have some context within which…

Researchers asked 17 participants in a job-training program to describe their personal struggles following an economic restructuring. Examined through a critical theoretical lens, findings indicate that the learners enrolled in the program to reclaim security, dignity, meaningful work, and caring relationships. Program planners at community…

Community and junior colleges play a vital role in the economic development process. They serve as catalysts in planning and implementing the efforts of the involved groups. They also provide technical assistance through program offerings, services, and resources. There are specific ways that each group involved can display a commitment,…

Outlines steps in establishing an Advanced Technology Center (ATC) to help colleges avoid unnecessary expenditures and develop the most appropriate ATC for local needs. Offers guidance on visiting other ATC sites; planning the facility; finding funding; acquiring staff or retraining current staff; networking; and maintaining and upgrading the ATC.…

Describes cooperative efforts between the Tennessee Valley Authority and regional two-year colleges initiated as a part of the TVA's overall economic development strategy. Discusses the formation of the National Institute for Technology Training to enhance the instructional and technical capabilities of two-year college faculty, staff, and…

The Illinois Community College Board provided more than $3.3 million to community colleges during fiscal year 2009 to support local workforce and economic development services through their Business and Industry Centers. The workforce development activities conducted under this grant include customized job training on campus or on-site at a…

Faced with a changing economy, the Houston Community College System (Texas) set goals and objectives to pull together its resources in response to the crisis in the Houston area. This article describes successful strategies and approaches used to network, market, and develop company partnerships and training activities to meet local needs. (Author)

Examines the new economic development programs launched in North Carolina. Looks at state priority programs, cooperative skills training centers, and instruction to support formal internships. Discusses on-going programs for business and industry, including new and expanding industry training, in-plant skill training, technical and vocational…

This two-part report describes Florida Community College at Jacksonville's (FCCJ's) Institutional Opportunities Plan for International Development, part of a new programmatic thrust encompassing job-specific training, economic development support, cultural exchange, and focus on world issues. The following topics are covered in both parts of the…

Consists of four program descriptions related to economic development efforts involving two-year postsecondary educational institutions. Topics include statewide industrial training network among education, business, and government in Kansas; operation of business centers and economic development offices at Illinois schools; an Illinois regional…

Argues that community college mission expansion should include economic development activities. Reviews related literature; raises policy considerations related to basic educational dimensions of visibility, commitment, responsibility, authority, and credibility; and identifies successful techniques for establishing and operating community service…

In 1985, the Sears-Roebuck Foundation awarded the American Association of Community and Junior Colleges (AACJC) and the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) a 2-year, $950,180 grant, known as the Partnership Development Fund, to enhance collaboration between community, technical, and junior colleges and business/industry/labor, public…

Designed to help community colleges create and operate a business center to serve local employers, this booklet provides information, illustrations, models, and insights to encourage the establishment of new outreach programs into the business community. Section I offers guidance on planning a business center for economic development and job…