U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS— Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. officially launched the third annual Governor’s Workforce Development Summit, a critical event aimed at empowering the community to “Seize the Moment: Take Charge of Your Tomorrow.” Held on St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, this year’s summit promises to be a cornerstone of the Bryan-Roach Administration’s ongoing commitment to workforce development.
The Governor, alongside Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach and Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy, participated in the opening session, setting the tone for an inspiring and productive event.
The summit brings together stakeholders from across the U.S. Virgin Islands to focus on strategies and opportunities for building a skilled and resilient workforce.
One of the summit’s highlights was Governor Bryan’s hosting of a panel discussion titled “Leveraging Partnerships for Economic Growth and Sustainability.” Esteemed panelists included:
- Keith O’Neale, Jr., President and CEO, O’Neale’s Transport Inc.
- Samuel Rey, President/CEO, Host-U Services & Training Consultants.
- Dr. David Hall, President, University of the Virgin Islands.
- Jed John Hope, CEO, Strategy Finance Technology.
The panel delved into crucial topics, emphasizing the role of a skilled workforce in driving economic growth and sustainability in the territory.
Discussions revolved around aligning workforce development with key industries and sectors, attracting and retaining talent locally, and leveraging workforce development as a catalyst for overall community prosperity.
The first day of the summit, held at Caribbean Cinemas, saw a remarkable turnout, with hundreds of attendees, including several dozen high school students from St. Croix and representatives from various St. Croix businesses.
The engagement of the Territory’s youth and the private sector underscores the collective commitment to shaping a better future for the Virgin Islands.
Governor Bryan highlighted the importance of this year’s theme, “Seize the Moment: Take Charge of Your Tomorrow,” as it aligns with the territory’s low unemployment rates of 3.4 percent in St. Thomas and St. John and 3.7 percent in St. Croix. The Governor emphasized the urgent need for skilled labor and the abundant opportunities available as the administration continues to transform the Territory’s infrastructure and economy.
Following his remarks Tuesday, the Governor thanked Executive Director Sonia Boyce and members of the Virgin Islands Workforce Development Board for their continued efforts and for their work bringing to fruition this year’s summit.
“The 2023 Governor’s Workforce Development Summit stands as a testament to our dedication to the prosperity of the Virgin Islands,” Governor Bryan said. “Together, we will seize this moment to shape a brighter tomorrow, where our skilled workforce drives sustainable economic growth and prosperity for all.”
To view the Governor’s Workforce Summit, visit https://fb.watch/nBnC7RsK8U/
The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the Territory’s people, infrastructure, and future through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government and ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit transparency.vi.gov
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