By The People’s Paper MS
A continued partnership between the Simpson County Board of Supervisors and Copiah-Lincoln Community College is aiming to meet one of the county’s most pressing needs: connecting residents to training that leads directly to employment.
District 1 Supervisor Mitchell Chatman said the decision to support and continue the partnership comes from a clear and growing demand within the community.
“In Simpson County, we’ve seen a growing need for practical, job-ready training that leads directly to employment,” Chatman said. “Many residents are willing to work but need access to short-term skills programs that match today’s job market.”
One of the most significant gaps identified is in commercial driver training. Employers across the region are actively seeking CDL-certified drivers, while many residents are searching for stable, good-paying careers.
“This partnership helps bridge that gap by bringing accessible training closer to home and aligning education with real workforce demand,” Chatman said.
Expanding Opportunities Beyond CDL
Anika Floyd, Ph.D. said the partnership goes beyond CDL training to provide a broader workforce pipeline.
“Beyond CDL training, this partnership reinforces ongoing efforts to expand workforce programming that meets the evolving needs of our community,” Floyd said. “Together, we are focused on creating accessible, career-driven pathways that support economic growth and long-term sustainability.”
The college also offers certifications and training in high-demand fields, including healthcare and skilled trades. Programs include Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Welding, Pipefitting, Practical Nursing, and the new LPN to RN pathway. Floyd said Co-Lin is continually exploring opportunities to expand certifications, strengthen employer partnerships, and enhance job placement connections.
Investing in People and Skills
The county is committing targeted workforce development funding along with in-kind support, including coordination, outreach, and administrative assistance. These resources will support CDL instruction, test preparation, and overall program operations.
“Our goal is to remove barriers so residents can focus on training and completion,” Chatman said. “We see this as a responsible use of county resources, investing directly in people and skills that strengthen our local workforce.”
Supporting All Learners
Floyd emphasized that the partnership is designed to serve a broad spectrum of residents, including recent high school graduates and adults returning to education.
“By offering flexible entry points and a variety of program options, Copiah-Lincoln Community College helps remove barriers and creates pathways for individuals at all stages of life to gain valuable skills, credentials, and opportunities for advancement,” she said.
Measuring Success
County leaders are focused on measurable outcomes over the next year. Those include an increase in residents completing CDL training, graduates securing employment soon after certification, and improved job placement and retention rates.
“Success, to us, is seeing residents gain skills and step into jobs that support themselves and their families,” Chatman said.
A Broader Economic Strategy
Workforce development remains a cornerstone of Simpson County’s long-term economic plan. Officials say strengthening the local labor pool is essential to attracting and retaining businesses.
“This initiative is viewed as a foundational project,” Chatman said. “It not only meets current needs but also positions Simpson County to attract and retain businesses in the future.”
Enrollment and Access
Program start dates and registration timelines vary by program. Residents are encouraged to contact Enrollment Services at 601.849.0124 or the Campus Career Coach, Ms. Shanijua Byrd, at 601.849.0135 for current information.
Accountability and Transparency
To evaluate the program’s impact, the Board of Supervisors will track enrollment and completion numbers, job placement and retention rates, and feedback from both participants and employers.
“The public deserves to see how their investment is working,” Chatman said. “We are committed to keeping that information accessible.”
The People’s Paper MS will be here to provide you with updates.
