Athens Reporter

Dr. Alvie Coes III, Chief Workforce Officer of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce, has been chosen to join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Business Leads Fellowship Program. This program is designed to equip leaders from various chambers of commerce, economic development agencies, and trade associations with the necessary tools and networks to tackle pressing education and workforce issues.

"I am excited about this incredible opportunity to work with professionals from diverse backgrounds to share best practices and engage in critical discussions on the importance of developing a skilled talent pipeline," said Coes. He emphasized the value of gaining insights from peers nationwide to develop effective solutions for workforce challenges in Athens-Clarke County, GA.

Kyle Butler, Senior Manager of Programs, K-12 Education at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, highlighted the program's purpose: "We created the Business Leads Fellowship Program in response to the needs of our state and local chamber partners. They, better than anyone, see the critical link between education and economic development."

The selection process was competitive, with Coes being one of 35 executives chosen for this cohort. The eight-month program includes both in-person and virtual meetings covering topics such as early childhood education, K-12 education, postsecondary education, and workforce development.

Upon completing the program, participants will join a network of over 350 chambers of commerce and statewide associations engaged in education and workforce initiatives across the nation.

For further details about the Business Leads Fellowship Program, interested parties can visit its official website.