Louisa Chamber and Foundation Launch Workforce Council to Strengthen Employer-Driven Talent Strategies
Louisa, VA – The Louisa County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Louisa Forward Foundation, have announced the formation of a new Workforce Council to strengthen employer-driven workforce and leadership development strategies across Louisa County.
The Workforce Council builds upon years of strong collaboration with Louisa County Public Schools, particularly through the partnership with Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs that prepare students for high-demand career pathways. That partnership remains a critical component of Louisa’s long-term talent development strategy.
The newly formed Council expands the focus to include adult learners, career transitioners, workforce retention strategies, and employer-aligned solutions that address the needs of Louisa businesses today.
“In rural America, more than 70% of employers report difficulty finding qualified workers,” said Tracy Hale Clark, Executive Director of the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce. “That reality requires intentional alignment between business, education, and community partners. The Workforce Council ensures Louisa remains proactive and business-focused in addressing those challenges.”
The Workforce Council serves as a strategic advisory body aligned with the Chamber’s Strategic Pillar Two – Workforce & Leadership Development. Members will provide insight on workforce trends, identify measurable priorities, and help shape initiatives that strengthen Louisa’s local talent ecosystem.
“This Council allows us to bring experienced leaders together to guide workforce strategy from the employer perspective,” said Dr. Tiffany Edwards, Workforce Council Chair and owner of TME Coaching & Consulting, LLC. “Louisa has made meaningful investments in preparing students for the future. Our objective is to ensure businesses, adult learners, and community partners are aligned so opportunity continues at every stage of the workforce journey.”
As Louisa County prepares for the completion of its new Career and Technical Education facility, leaders see expanded opportunity for collaboration that serves both students and the broader workforce.
“This new CTE facility represents an intentional investment in workforce readiness for all of Louisa County,” said Bo Bundrick, Director of Career & Technical Education and Workforce Development for Louisa County Public Schools. “It expands access to high-quality career pathways for students and adult learners alike and positions our community to meet the evolving needs of local employers.”
Immediate Focus: Louisa Job Hub
One of the Council’s priority initiatives is the Louisa Job Hub, a workforce platform designed to serve as a centralized destination for Louisa-based employment opportunities.
The Louisa Job Hub aggregates verified local job postings and automatically includes Chamber member businesses, creating a trusted, Louisa-focused employment resource for residents and employers.
“Having a Louisa-focused hub creates clarity and credibility for both employers and job seekers,” said Ryan Bugas, Dominion Energy Virginia’s Director of Nuclear Plant Support at North Anna Power Station Plant and Workforce Council member. “It provides businesses with a targeted way to connect with local talent and reinforces that strong career opportunities exist right here in Louisa County.”
Within 12 months, the Workforce Council aims to establish the Louisa Job Hub as the recognized first-stop destination for finding and posting jobs in Louisa County measured by employer participation, local engagement, and increased visibility of Louisa-based career opportunities.
The Council will also lead employer listening efforts, evaluate workforce data, and explore collaborative solutions that complement school-based initiatives while expanding support for adult learners and job transitioners.
Workforce Council Members include;
· Dr. Tiffany Edwards, TME Coaching & Consulting, LLC (Chair)
· Ryan Bugas, Dominion Energy North Anna Power Plant
· Shonny Cooke, Piedmont Virginia Community College
· Evelyn DeGolyer, Louisa Health & Rehabilitation Center
· Cliff Gregory, OAR Jefferson Area Community Corrections
· Dee Jackson, Rappahannock Electric Cooperative
The Workforce Council will meet quarterly throughout 2026 to guide strategy and assess measurable progress.
Employers and job seekers can explore the Louisa Job Hub at LouisaChamber.org.
About the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce
Established in 1927, the Louisa County Chamber of Commerce serves as the trusted voice and advocate for business in Louisa County. The Chamber convenes leaders, advances economic vitality, supports workforce and leadership development, and strengthens the local business environment through strategic partnerships and business-focused initiatives. Learn more at LouisaChamber.org.
About the Louisa Forward Foundation
The Louisa Forward Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to support economic, educational, and community development initiatives aligned with the Chamber’s mission. The Foundation leverages grant funding, philanthropic investment, and collaborative partnerships to expand workforce programs, strengthen nonprofit capacity, and promote long-term community resilience across Louisa County. Learn more at LouisaForward.org