The Oconee Pickens Chamber Coalition (OPCC) recently presented the results of their member company survey on educational needs to curriculum superintendents of Oconee, Pickens, and Anderson District 4 schools. The seven Chambers that make up the Coalition are Clemson, Easley, Liberty and Pickens in Pickens County as well as Seneca, Walhalla, and Westminster in Oconee County. They represent about 1500 members located primarily in Oconee and Pickens Counties with some members in neighboring areas.

The survey asked which skills were most important to employers for incoming candidates and how well these skills are being taught in our area high schools. It was expected that technical skills, such as computer, programming, systems integration, would be most in need of improvement. However, personal skills were the most important while resource utilization was in most need of attention. All general skills (personal, basic, thinking, and resource utilization) were in more need of attention than technical skills. Employers apparently feel that work ethic, interpersonal skills, ability to work in groups, proper hygiene and dress and other related characteristics are most important for incoming employees while technical skills can be gained on the job.

The survey was developed based on previous work done by the State Chamber of Commerce, but focused on companies in this specific area. Input and support were obtained prior to the survey from Assistant Superintendents of curriculum. The eight education categories included were: basic skills, science and technology, resource utilization, information, systems, personal skills, and thinking skills.

In prior surveys conducted, education was ranked first or second among its member companies. The OPCC wanted to make a positive contribution to this important subject and to support efforts to implement the Education and Economic Development Act (EEDA), passed in the last legislative session. In part, the EEDA requires additions to middle and high school curriculum to help students determine a career focus and aid in their transition to employment. This will require a bridge between academia and employers, and it is a goal of the OPCC to work with the local curriculum superintendents and provide as much help in this area as possible.

Contact:
Kent Dykes
864-859-2693
kent@easleychamber.org