30 VIRGINIA FORESTS New Agency Consolidates Virginia’s Workforce Programs On May 31, Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed bills to create the Virginia Department of Workforce Development and Advancement that will create, sustain, and retain a highly skilled workforce. “Last year, my administration released its ‘Compete to Win’ plan and we have been laser-focused on bringing the Commonwealth of Virginia to a whole new level. These bills will fundamentally transform our workforce for the future and better position the Commonwealth to not only compete, but win,” said Youngkin. “The new Department of Workforce Development and Advancement will allow us to provide better services and training to Virginians, measure and optimize our programs, create more high-paying jobs, and enable the Commonwealth to better compete with other states,” said Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater. “This effort will accelerate Virginia’s economic growth and keep Virginia as the best place to live, work, and raise a family.” “For Virginia to have a bright future, we must have a well-trained workforce ready and able to fill the jobs of tomorrow. A trained workforce is the best economic development tool that we can possibly have. This legislation makes Virginia more attractive for businesses looking to grow,” said Senator Frank Ruff. “A skilled and readily available workforce is essential to building a strong and vibrant economy,” said Delegate Kathy Byron. “By transforming the delivery of Virginia’s workforce development programs, we are strengthening our ability to attract and grow businesses throughout the commonwealth, creating jobs and growing our economy.” Governor Younkin says the new department will prioritize ensuring all Virginians have access to the internships, apprenticeships, education and training they need for a successful career in Virginia. Virginia SHARP Logger Upcoming Core Training and CE Programs The SHARP Logger program serves to meet goal of the forest products industry in Virginia to train every logger and forester in the Commonwealth in the principles of sustainable forestry, environmental protection and workplace safety. Since 1996, more than 3,700 loggers, foresters and others have received this training, representing the vast majority of the logging firms that operate in Virginia. This training is provided at no cost to the SHARP Logger participants. To achieve SHARP Logger standing, participants must complete core classes for a total of 12 credit hours. Core classes are offered as a pair, but can be taken in any order and at any location. Classes will be offered this year on August 17–18 in Alberta, Brunswick County (12pm–6pm). Continuing Education classes are for individuals who have completed the core program. To maintain their standing, SHARP Loggers must earn eight credit hours of continuing education (CE) Resource Review 2023 Virginia Wood Cup Golf Tournament Set for October Mark your calendars for Friday, October 20, 2023 for the first annual Virginia Wood Cup golf tournament. Co-hosted by the Virginia Forest Products Association (VFPA) and VFA, the Virginia Wood Cup will be held at the beautiful Kiskiack Golf Club in Williamsburg, VA. Proceeds from the Virginia Wood Cup, which will be held during Virginia Forest Products Week, will go to support the advocacy efforts of the host organizations. During last year’s inaugural event, more than 75 golfers took to the links, raising nearly $10,000 for VAForestPAC and the Wood Products PAC of Virginia. As in 2022, the format for the Virginia Wood Cup will be a captain’s choice scramble, enabling golfers of all skill levels to participate and have a great time. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for the event. To find out more and register your team, visit VFA’s website at www.vaforestry.org.
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