Callaway County Celebrates Continued Work Ready Community Certification

CALLAWAY COUNTY, MO – The Callaway Chamber of Commerce joined community leaders and partners on Thursday, July 23, for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating Callaway County's continued designation as an ACT Work Ready Community.
During the ceremony, Callaway County was formally presented with recognition of its recertification, marking another milestone in a designation the community has maintained since 2017.
The Certified Work Ready Community initiative, powered by ACT Work Ready Communities, helps communities demonstrate the strength of their workforce through skills-based credentials and employer engagement. At the center of the initiative is the ACT WorkKeys National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC), which provides individuals with a nationally recognized credential demonstrating foundational workplace skills.
Callaway County's involvement with the initiative began in 2017 with the support of the Callaway County Commission, which worked alongside the Callaway Chamber of Commerce to navigate the certification process and establish the county as a Certified Work Ready Community.
"Workforce development and economic development go hand in hand," said Tamara Tateosian, CEO of the Callaway Chamber of Commerce. "The County Commission recognized that connection when they helped us pursue this designation in 2017, and their partnership helped
lay the foundation for the work that has continued ever since. Maintaining this certification shows employers that Callaway County remains committed to developing the skilled workforce our businesses need to grow and succeed."
Since earning its initial certification, the Chamber and its community partners have continued working to meet the benchmarks necessary to maintain the designation, including supporting individuals earning the NCRC and engaging employers who recognize the value of skills-based credentials.
The July 23 celebration recognized not only Callaway County's recertification, but also the collaboration among employers, educators, workforce partners, local government and community leaders that has allowed the designation to remain active for nearly a decade.
"Maintaining our Work Ready Community status is something we can all be proud of," said Gary Jungermann, Callaway County Presiding Commissioner. "We're excited to continue supporting this effort and the partnerships that help strengthen our workforce, our businesses and the future of Callaway County."
The Callaway Chamber of Commerce remains committed to workforce development as a critical component of a strong local economy and to creating opportunities that help both businesses and individuals succeed.
About the Callaway Chamber of Commerce The Callaway Chamber of Commerce is always building community for business and family. Our mission is to create a thriving culture, making Callaway County a place where people choose to live, while creating and celebrating success.